Lexus GX vs Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90's aesthetic was masterfully executed, combining practical elegance with a touch of aristocracy. Available in B5, B6, and Recharge T8 models, the XC90 presented robust options. The B5 featured a turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the B6 added a supercharger for enhanced performance. The Recharge T8, a plug-in hybrid, offered the most power and efficiency, boasting 455 horsepower and 32 miles of electric-only range.

Appearing in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trims, the XC90's price spanned from $56,000 to $79,600, not including an additional $1,195 destination charge. Our test model, the Recharge T8 Ultimate, arrived decked out with seven-passenger seating, massaging front seats, a premium headliner, active air suspension, a high-end Bowers & Wilkins audio system, and a trailer hitch, bringing the MSRP to $89,145.

Volvo was a master at using subtle, earthy exterior colors that mirrored luxury while prioritizing safety and sustainability. Wheel designs varied up to 21 inches in diameter, with a Bright theme featuring chrome and polished metal for a striking contrast against market trends. Inside, the XC90 may have seemed dated, but it was draped in rich materials, especially in the Ultimate trim. The wool-blend or ventilated Nappa leather upholstery added plush comfort, and the Orrefors crystal shift knob alongside natural wood trim lent an air of sophistication.

A complete redesign of the 2024 Lexus GX 550 set it apart from its predecessor, the GX 470. Striking, geometric styling replaced the previous softer lines. The signature spindle grille was less pronounced, complemented by standard triple-beam LED headlights set against a squared-off front fascia. This fresh, stiffer look gave the GX an aggressive visage, with a flat hood featuring humps above the front wheels for better visibility during off-road adventures.

The GX's sides appeared carved from a single metal block, with minimal character lines maintaining a horizontal course. The low window beltline improved visibility, essential for off-roading, and the notable kick-up before the C-pillar added a distinct touch. Standard running boards adorned the GX's bottom, and luxury trims offered powered units.

Available in six trims - Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Luxury+, Overtrail, and Overtrail+ - the GX aimed for both luxury and ruggedness. Luxury models sported 22-inch wheels, illuminated doorsills, and ambient lighting. Overtrail models focused on off-roading with 18-inch wheels paired with 33-inch all-terrain tires and tough Nuluxe leatherette upholstery for durability.

The 2024 GX's interior exuded luxury combined with utilitarian strength, housing standard heated and ventilated front seats. Robust, polyurethane touchpoints were included for durability, and the dashboard remained flat and upright. The centerpiece was a large 14-inch touchscreen, flanked by physical controls for off-road features and climate control.

Volvo's XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with the B6’s supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, resulting in a robust 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive (AWD) and an eight-speed automatic transmission were standard.

The XC90 Recharge T8 delivered 32 miles of electric-only driving and an average of 27 mpg in hybrid mode. In Power mode, it could accelerate from 0-60 mph in an estimated five seconds. Charging was straightforward, taking about 12 hours with a standard outlet or half that time with a 240-volt output.

Driving modes included Pure, Power, Hybrid, AWD, and Off-Road, the latter offering up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance with the air suspension. Additional battery modes like Charge, Hold, and Auto further enhanced efficiency and versatility.

Testing under scorching Southern California conditions, the XC90 managed 28 miles of electric range in Pure mode, slightly short of the EPA’s 33-mile estimate. Though it missed the predicted 27 mpg in combined driving, achieving 24.5 mpg, it excelled in daily suburban use on electric power alone.

The XC90 Recharge T8 was lively with gas and electric power blending seamlessly. However, its firm ride quality on 21-inch wheels and aging structure were less impressive, with noticeable cabin vibrations on rough terrains despite the adaptive air suspension. Steering lacked sharpness or precision, and while the SUV’s handling was adequate, it wasn’t particularly exhilarating or dynamic.

The Lexus GX swapped its V8 for a more advanced twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, producing 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Built on the modern GA-F truck platform, shared with various Toyota and Lexus vehicles, it delivered increased stability and rigidity.

The 10-speed automatic transmission, coupled with full-time 4WD and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential, ensured confident performance. Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS), boosting off-road prowess with 25-inch wheel articulation.

During testing, the GX proved powerful, both from a standstill and at speed. Its brakes were highly effective, though mainly tested under favorable conditions. Despite its considerable weight, the GX maintained composure through twists and turns, demonstrating substantial body control. Off-road testing was limited but showcased potential in more forgiving conditions.

Even in its base Core trim, the XC90 Recharge T8 offered a luxuriously equipped interior, featuring power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, wood trim, and a four-zone climate control with air purification. The panoramic glass roof with a one-touch swipe control added a touch of elegance.

Moving up to Plus and Ultimate trims, additional features included a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats with massage, enhanced lighting, and an integrated booster child seat. The XC90 provided exceptional comfort and a high driving position with excellent sightlines.

Despite advanced power seat adjustments, there were minor usability hitches, such as the lower leg bolsters catching on clothing. Climate control struggled in extreme heat conditions, and interior storage was adequate but not abundant. Cargo-wise, the XC90 offered up to 65.5 cubic feet of space with the third-row seat folded, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with the second-row seat down.

The GX’s interior design was a minimalist yet sophisticated evolution, shedding the previous generation’s clutter. It retained essential rotary knobs for climate control and physical buttons for off-roading functionalities.

Front and second-row spaces were generous, with 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row. The third row, available in Premium and Luxury models, was tight and suited for children. Comparatively, the Land Rover Defender 110 offered less front and rear legroom and even less space in its third row.

Cargo capacity was a strong point for the GX. With the third row in place, it held 10.3 cubic feet, expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with the third row folded. Overall capacity reached 76.9 cubic feet. Overtrail models, sans the third row, provided even more with up to 90.5 cubic feet of space.

The XC90’s infotainment system employed a 9-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in for navigation, voice recognition, and access to apps via Google Play, free for four years. Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM radio, and premium sound systems from Harman Kardon and Bowers & Wilkins were also included.

Though smaller, the screen's proximity to the driver aided usability, maintaining Volvo's minimalistic cabin with essential physical controls for volume and radio tuning. Google Assistant facilitated voice commands, although it sometimes required precise prompts for optimal performance.

Also included was a 12-inch digital instrument panel, with optional features like a head-up display and surround-view camera enhancing the XC90's tech suite.

The Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen, dominated the GX’s tech landscape. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were supported, along with various USB-C ports and an available wireless charging pad.

Drive Connect and Remote Connect services offered intelligent voice assistance, remote locking, vehicle diagnostics, and more, with three-year trial subscriptions. Afterward, monthly subscription fees applied.

A 10-speaker audio system was standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims. The Lexus Interface was user-friendly but relied heavily on subscription services post-trial.

Volvo's reputation for safety was evident in the XC90, with top crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. However, the XC90 lagged behind rivals in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), lacking innovations and hands-free driving capabilities.

Standard safety features included Pilot Assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, large-animal detection, and driver distraction notification. Despite its generally smooth performance, Pilot Assist’s significant error during testing raised concerns about its reliability.

The 2024 GX saw significant safety improvements, featuring the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. Standard ADAS included pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. Proactive driving assist enhanced safety further.

Crash-test ratings were yet to be conducted by IIHS and NHTSA, but modern architecture and robust safety features inspired confidence.