Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs Volvo XC60

The 2023 Volvo XC60 presented a sophisticated and stylish appearance, with its sleek design and attention to detail. The test vehicle, a Recharge model with the Ultimate package, showcased a Dark exterior theme complemented by Thunder Grey paint and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the XC60 exuded Scandinavian minimalism, with a luxurious touch provided by black leather, wood trim, metal accents, and ambient lighting. The panoramic sunroof and Orrefors crystal gear selector knob added to the opulence. Despite the initial learning curve, the controls became intuitive over time, making the XC60 a pleasure to drive.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's design was more polarizing. The exterior featured exaggerated forms, with scowling headlights and flared fenders, which some might find over-styled. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid continued this theme with oversized elements like large air vents and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The interior's mismatched textures and reflections from the display detracted from its appeal. While the Highlander Hybrid was quiet on the road, the interior quality felt lacking, with controls and storage areas that seemed inexpensive and poorly designed.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge boasted impressive performance with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and rear electric motor, delivering a combined 455 horsepower and 423 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain allowed the XC60 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. The XC60 offered various driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, Pure, Off-road, and Constant AWD, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. In Pure mode, the XC60 achieved an electric driving range of 38.3 miles, surpassing expectations. The XC60 Recharge averaged 54.6 mpg on a 65-mile evaluation route, showcasing its efficiency.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motor-generators, producing a combined 243 horsepower. While the Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel economy, it lacked high-speed passing power and struggled with towing. The SUV offered Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, but its soft suspension and CVT made for a less engaging driving experience. The Highlander Hybrid averaged 28.7 mpg on the evaluation loop, falling short of its EPA rating of 35 mpg.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, as a compact crossover SUV, was best suited for four passengers, though it could accommodate five if needed. The front seats provided exceptional comfort with Nappa leather upholstery, heating, ventilation, and power cushion extensions. The rear seats were also comfortable, though legroom was limited. The XC60 offered 25.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 63.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The power liftgate and ski pass-through panel added convenience, though there was no underfloor storage due to the battery pack.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, designed for family use, could carry seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The second-row captain's chairs provided comfort, while the third-row seat was best for occasional use. The Highlander Hybrid featured three-zone automatic climate control and heated seats. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded. The center armrest storage console design was unnecessarily complex, and the optional all-weather cargo mat compromised utility.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 9-inch Google Built-in infotainment system. The system offered Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play, with support for Apple CarPlay. The voice-recognition system impressed, though it occasionally required specific phrasing. The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivered exceptional audio quality, though the Harman Kardon system included in the Ultimate package was likely sufficient for most.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment systems. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with over-the-air updates and connected service plans. The Drive Connect service plan offered advanced features like natural voice recognition and cloud-based navigation. The JBL sound system provided decent audio quality, though the graphics on the infotainment screen could be improved for better visibility.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 was synonymous with safety, featuring Pilot Assist, an advanced driver-assistance system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering. The system excelled on highways, providing smooth and accurate performance. Oncoming Lane Mitigation helped avoid collisions with oncoming vehicles. While the XC60 Recharge had not been crash-tested by NHTSA, the B5 and B6 mild-hybrids received top marks. The IIHS awarded the XC60 B5 and B6 a Top Safety Pick+ rating for 2022.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid prioritized safety with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. The system included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. The Highlander Hybrid also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Limited and Platinum trims added parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from both IIHS and NHTSA.