2023 Lexus RX vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Lexus RX was shorter in height, broader in width, and longer in wheelbase compared to its predecessor, yet maintained the same overall length. It offered more cargo space than the 2022 model, though still less than its rivals. The RX appeared smaller due to the reduction in rear overhang, softer design lines, and a down-sloping black trim on the rear pillar, which created a floating roof effect but also a stubby look. The front featured a better-integrated spindle-style grille with a modern mesh texture, flowing into an elevated hood that swept back into the windshield pillars. The rear added a light-blade taillight design, block lettering for the Lexus name, and a sporty bumper with simulated air vents. The exterior styling was familiar yet fresh, ensuring it stood out from the previous generation and the smaller Lexus NX.

Inside, the RX offered a modern interior with fewer buttons and knobs. Digital instrumentation and a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display took center stage, with a head-up display available. The Intelligent Assistant technology made using the RX’s features easier, though it required a subscription after three years. Quality levels were high, with NuLuxe artificial leather standard and genuine leather available. The RX 350 was available in various trims, including Standard, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, and F Sport Handling, with pricing expected to be similar to the outgoing model.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution from Volvo’s past boxy designs. The front end was stout and solid without being boastful, featuring an assertive grille and modern “Thor’s Hammer” headlights. The XC90’s dimensions and shape leaned toward rectilinear but were far from the toaster-like designs of the past. The test vehicle, an AWD Ultimate trim, had 21-inch wheels wrapped in low-profile Pirelli Scorpion all-season tires, adding drama to the otherwise stoic XC90. The Platinum Gray paint had brown undertones, giving it richness and depth.

Inside, the XC90’s design was elegant, with a gorgeous steering wheel, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, an Orrefors crystal shift knob, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The interior featured a blend of wonderful materials, with wood deco inlays adding a touch of nature. The minimalist design had few buttons or physical controls, giving it a clean look.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During a media event, two versions of the RX 350 were tested on a 20-mile loop. The AWD Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer under hard acceleration and excess body motion over undulating pavement, though it offered a smooth ride most of the time. The F Sport Handling trim, with an adaptive damping suspension, felt more secure and sure-footed, especially in Sport mode. Both models had 21-inch wheels with 235/50 all-season tires, but the F Sport Handling’s adaptive suspension eliminated most unwanted bouncing and rolling.

The turbo-four engine performed better at higher altitudes and returned slightly better fuel economy than the outgoing 3.5-liter V6, though it lacked the V6’s smoothness. The RX 350 FWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, while the AWD version did it in 7.2 seconds. Fuel economy was expected to average 25 mpg for the FWD and 24 mpg for the AWD, though real-world results were slightly lower.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 replaced its older engines with new B5 and B6 engines, featuring mild-hybrid technology. The B5, with a turbocharger and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The B6, with a supercharger and turbo, churned out 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency and smoothness, though the gains were minimal. The XC90’s driving experience was enjoyable and reserved, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90 handled well, with minimal roll through corners despite its bulky dimensions. Road and wind noise were kept at bay, and the brakes inspired confidence with a solid pedal feel.

The XC90 didn’t feature multiple drive modes or extensive off-road capabilities, focusing instead on simplicity. During a test in a New Hampshire snowstorm, the XC90 performed well, though dedicated winter tires would have provided more confidence.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered comfortable seating, though the F Sport Handling’s sport seat bolsters might have been too snug for some. The RX 350 Luxury featured semi-aniline premium leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The RX 350 F Sport Handling had black NuLuxe simulated leather seats, Dark Graphite trim, and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. Both models provided exceptional comfort, though taller passengers might have found headroom tight in the back seat. The RX offered useful storage areas and improved cargo space, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down.

The 2023 Volvo XC90’s front seats were peaceful and pleasant, though the minimalist design led to some storage frustrations. There was no dedicated space for a cell phone, and the center console bin was small. The second row was comfortable and spacious, but adjusting the seats was challenging. The XC90 came standard with a second-row bench seat for seven-passenger seating, but captain’s chairs were available for an additional cost. The third row was difficult to access and offered limited space. Cargo space was 12.5 cubic feet with the third row in position, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded, falling short of some competitors.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, satellite radio, and various connected services. Drive Connect, free for three years, included Destination Assist and Intelligent Assistant natural voice recognition. The system allowed user profiles and streaming through embedded apps. The 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system required some adjustment for optimal sound. Digital instrumentation, Digital Latch door handles, a digital rearview mirror, digital key smartphone technology, and a color head-up display were available.

The 2023 Volvo XC90’s 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display ran Google OS, featuring Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant. Natural-language recognition was excellent, and owners could issue commands via Google Home devices. However, many key functions were filed within the touchscreen interface, leading to some frustration. The minimalist design meant fewer physical buttons, requiring more interaction with the screen for adjustments.

The 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, intersection turn assistance with front cross-traffic alert, and curve speed-reduction function. New semi-autonomous driving technologies included Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist. LSS+ 3.0 was impressive but had some flaws, such as unmarked adaptive cruise controls and issues with the HUD when wearing polarized sunglasses. Curve-speed reduction technology was not predictive, and the driver monitoring system could be overly sensitive.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was known for its safety, carrying a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist technology, which helped maintain distance and lane position. These technologies worked well, even in challenging conditions like Boston traffic.