2020 Toyota 4Runner vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner was characterized by its tall slab sides, high beltline, and short overhangs, contributing to its timeless design. Its utilitarian attitude was reminiscent of an XJ Jeep Cherokee, with flared wheel wells designed to accommodate off-road tires and short overhangs for tackling steep terrains. The hood scoop, a visual cue for the TRD trim, was one of the few non-functional elements. The front end featured small, angular headlights, with grille accents varying by package. The Limited package, aimed at comfort, included leather upholstery and an 8-inch touchscreen, though the utilitarian DNA was evident in the plastic materials and trail-oriented seating position.

In contrast, the 2021 Volvo XC90 successfully reshaped Volvo's image with its design, maintaining traditional styling features like a boxy profile and blunt front end, while adding character with softer lines and more chrome. The LED headlights with "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights were a distinctive touch. The Inscription test car was the flashiest trim, with extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels. The XC90 shared its platform with other Volvo models, offering a minimalist interior with matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery. The Orrefors crystal shifter added a high-end touch to the otherwise restrained interior.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4-litre V6 engine with a five-speed automatic transmission, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine was not designed for efficiency but for reliability and off-road performance, offering a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms. Fuel consumption was estimated at 14.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 12.5 on the highway, and 13.8 combined. The 4Runner excelled off-road, with body-on-frame construction and advanced traction systems like crawl control and Multi-Terrain Select, though it exhibited significant body roll and vague steering on the road.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The T5 engine was turbocharged, producing 250 horsepower, while the T6 added supercharging for 316 horsepower. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric assist for 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. The XC90 struggled with acceleration on electric power alone, requiring the gasoline engine's assistance. It offered three drive modes—Pure, Hybrid, and Power—but Pure mode was limited to low speeds. The XC90 excelled in ride quality and quietness, with a maximum towing capacity of 2,250 kilograms.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner offered excellent outward visibility and a relatively tight turning radius of 5.6 metres. The interior featured large, chunky knobs for controls and an 8-inch touchscreen. The tall front seat position provided a commanding view, though power-retractable running boards were necessary for easier access. The optional third row of seats was best for short, occasional use, with limited legroom and comfort.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom for the segment. The third row was tight for adults, and seats lacked support. An optional power sunroof and standard four-zone climate control enhanced the interior's spacious feel. The Inscription test car featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, though storage space was limited. Cargo space was near the bottom of the segment, with 317 litres with all seats in place, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner was updated with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The proprietary system was not difficult to understand, but the onboard navigation system was less efficient than Google Maps. The 4Runner included Bluetooth connectivity, a single USB port, and subscription services like Sirius XM. While technological advancements were made, the 4Runner lagged behind competitors in features and usability.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was user-friendly, though the text was difficult to read while driving. The XC90 included a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display. The wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and only second-row USB-C ports were available.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner included Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. It had eight standard airbags and received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with a three-star rollover test rating. The IIHS gave it a "Good" score in most crash tests, except for a "Marginal" score in the small overlap front: driver-side test.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with "Good" scores in all crash tests and "Superior" front-crash prevention ratings. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered extensive standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.