Volvo XC40 vs Lexus TX

The 2023 Volvo XC40 maintained its distinctive design, characterized by a flat-roofed profile and a clean exterior that aligned with Volvo's pro-electrification ethos. Updates for the year included a pixelated design for the "Thor’s Hammer" headlights, a more angular front bumper, and new wheel designs. The XC40 Recharge was easily identifiable with its new sealed-off grille. Inside, the XC40 continued with its minimalist design, featuring thin air vents, scalloped door elements, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The interior, while well-finished, reminded testers of its entry-level status, despite options like a panoramic moonroof and Orrefors crystal shift knob.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented itself as a luxury SUV with upscale looks and toned-down styling compared to other Lexus models. The Luxury trim test model featured 22-inch wheels, enhancing its appearance. The TX came in three model series: TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices starting at $55,050. The TX 350, likely the volume seller, offered a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with FWD or AWD. The Luxury trim added premium interior features, though the dark cabin felt somewhat oppressive despite the panoramic sunroof. Overall, the TX 350 Luxury model's interior was luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator. The base B4 powertrain combined this system with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 197 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, while the B5 model offered 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both powertrains came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the B4 being FWD-only and the B5 AWD-only. The B5 model accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, and the XC40 Recharge, with its 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, achieved the same in 4.7 seconds. The XC40 was praised for its refinement and composure, though it lacked a sport driving mode.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of eight seconds for the FWD model, though it felt quicker due to its torque delivery. The TX 350 FWD had an EPA rating of 23 mpg combined, but during testing, it averaged 20.4 mpg. The AWD option, costing $1,600, offered slightly quicker acceleration and improved traction. The TX 350's suspension provided a comfortable ride, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on the highway, though the brake pedal felt too soft in the test vehicle.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while marketed as an SUV, was better suited for solo commuting than carpooling. It offered reasonable space among its competitors, with ample rear-seat headroom and average legroom. The XC40 provided 20 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 46.9 cubic feet with them folded. Interior storage was well-designed, with scalloped door panels and a spacious center console storage bin.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury model featured premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row seat, while not as welcoming, offered triple-zone climate control and USB ports. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, with stadium-style seating and large windows. Cargo space measured 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 97 cubic feet with the second row down. The TX offered numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 featured an Android-based infotainment system with Google apps, including Google Maps and Google Assistant. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen were standard, with a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system available. The system's graphics were pleasing, but users preferring Apple might find the Google features less satisfying. The lack of analog controls meant relying on the touchscreen for most functions, which could be cumbersome.

The 2024 Lexus TX, equipped with the optional Technology Package, included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls and head-up display visibility issues were frustrating. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. The TX also provided free subscriptions to various connectivity services, and the optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. Upgrading to higher trims added features like a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise control. The XC40 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though it had an "Acceptable" rating in the updated side-impact test.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist was also available, though it was not always smooth. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds, but no higher-speed system was available. Overall, the LSS+ 3.0 system was effective, though it could be overly cautious in certain situations.