Volvo XC60 vs Lexus TX

The 2026 Volvo XC60 was offered in two variants: the T5 mild hybrid and the T8 Plug-in Hybrid. The T5 model came in Core, Plus, Ultra, and Black Edition trims, with prices ranging from $51,095 to $62,195, including destination charges. The T5 Ultra, provided for review, featured numerous upgrades that increased its MSRP to $68,870. These enhancements included 22-inch wheels, active air suspension, front seat massage, a Climate Package, and a Bowers & Wilkins audio system, all of which were deemed worthwhile. The new Forest Lake paint added a stunning visual appeal, while the 22-inch wheels enhanced the vehicle's presence. The interior boasted a clean Scandinavian design with plush Nappa leather, premium wood trim, and classy metal speaker grilles, creating a calming and luxurious atmosphere. However, the minimalist controls required some acclimatization during a family road trip.

The 2026 Lexus TX was available in various trims, including the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The 550h+ featured a standard panoramic glass roof and the new Matador Red Mica paint. Most models had 20-inch wheels, but the 550h+ sported 22-inch wheels. The large grille retained the spindle shape, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting. The interior offered two color options, with the PHEV adding a dark brown called Peppercorn. Ambient lighting and suede trim enhanced the cabin's ambiance, though material quality fell short of luxury standards. Redesigned door handles were a unique feature, but more attention to cabin detail was desired.

The 2026 Volvo XC60 T5 housed a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 247 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 48-volt mild-hybrid system included regenerative braking. The XC60 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, though turbo lag and transmission delays affected power delivery. The EPA rated it at 26 mpg combined, but real-world tests showed 24.7 mpg. The 22-inch wheels impacted ride quality, but the air suspension in Comfort mode mitigated most discomfort. The XC60 excelled in cornering grip, though steering feedback was lacking. Standard and Off-Road modes were available, but the XC60 was not suited for off-road adventures. It proved to be an excellent road-tripper with compact dimensions for easy parking.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid generated 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The seven-kilowatt charger provided a full battery in under three hours. The TX offered multiple drive options, including electric-only, hybrid, and gas-only modes, with Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom drive modes. Sport mode increased throttle sensitivity, though it wasn't aggressive. The 550h+ delivered a quiet and smooth ride, with seamless transitions between gas and electric power. The AWD system distributed power effectively, and Trail Mode maintained traction on slippery surfaces.

The 2026 Volvo XC60 featured top-shelf front seats with Nappa leather, heating, cooling, massage, and extending leg supports, ensuring comfort during long drives. Rear seats were less comfortable, with firm cushions and low positioning. The four-zone climate control system and panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin experience. In-cabin storage was adequate, with tamboured covers for cupholders and large door bins. The cargo area offered 21.6 cubic feet of space, expandable to 63.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ offered standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with recline function and ample headroom. A one-touch button facilitated third-row access, though folding the second row flat was complicated. Front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. Climate controls were mostly on-screen, with physical dials for temperature. The TX provided excellent cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 97 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2026 Volvo XC60 introduced a larger 11.2-inch touchscreen with Volvo Car UX software, offering a four-year subscription to Digital Services, including Google built-in apps. The infotainment system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though Apple CarPlay required a wired connection. The optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system provided 15 speakers and 1,410 watts of power. The system functioned well, though navigating saved radio stations was cumbersome.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with quick response times, though some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were confusing to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occurred. A subscription was required for in-dash navigation and other features. The back-up camera offered a bird’s-eye view, and the Advanced Park system handled parking duties. The TX provided ample USB ports and wireless charging, with a 120-volt outlet for larger devices.

The 2026 Volvo XC60 did not receive a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS due to an Acceptable side-impact crash test rating. However, it offered comprehensive safety tech, including forward-collision warning, oncoming collision mitigation, and intersection braking assist. The Pilot Assist system was unsophisticated, with issues in lane tracking and braking. The XC60 earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2026 Lexus TX came with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, lane centering, and traffic sign recognition. Proactive Driving Assist was a feature often turned off due to its random activation. Adaptive cruise control worked well, though it was slow to resume speed. The TX 350 and 500h received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, while the IIHS gave the TX an Acceptable rating for the small overlap front crash test.