2021 Volvo XC40 vs 2020 Toyota RAV4

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, following its 2019 redesign, presented a bolder and more angular appearance, enhancing its reputation for durability with a tougher look. The Trail trim, known for its off-roading capabilities, featured a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, multiple driving modes, and downhill assist control, making it a formidable choice for adventurous drivers. The TRD Off-Road package, introduced in 2020, further elevated its off-road prowess with specialized suspension, all-terrain tires, and distinctive matte-black wheels. The interior boasted TRD logos, rubber mats, and a mix of quality materials, although some plastic elements appeared less refined.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, with its traditional SUV styling, fit seamlessly into the Volvo lineup, showcasing signature design elements like “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights. The XC40 Recharge, the electric variant, featured subtle distinctions such as a blanked-off grille and model-specific wheels. Built on Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture, the XC40 offered a minimalist interior with high-quality materials, including Nappa leather and Nubuck textile. The design was cohesive, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen and well-integrated air vents, providing a premium feel uncommon in its segment.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine, delivering 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid variant offered 219 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency, though it was not available with the TRD Off-Road package. The eight-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally hesitated in gear selection. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system, multi-terrain select settings, and 21.8 centimetres of ground clearance, making it adept at handling challenging terrains. Despite its off-road focus, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road excelled in urban environments, with a smooth ride and user-friendly features like a 360-degree camera system. However, its fuel efficiency fell short of official estimates, averaging 10.0 L/100 km.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a three-tiered powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline options included a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, with the T4 producing 187 horsepower and the T5 delivering 248 horsepower. The Recharge model, sharing its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasted 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The XC40 emphasized luxury and comfort, with excellent ride quality even on rough roads. The Recharge model featured one-pedal driving and a towing capacity of 900 kilograms, adding to its versatility.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy access with well-positioned seating and a sporty driving position. The front seats featured SofTex upholstery, heated and ventilated options, and a heated steering wheel. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB ports. The RAV4 provided ample interior storage, including a dashboard shelf, and offered 1,062 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,974 litres with the rear seats folded. Roof rails and a roof rack with crossbars enhanced its utility.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, while not particularly spacious, offered clever storage solutions to compensate for its limited interior space. The centre console included a removable trash bin, and the glovebox featured a bag hook. The Harman Kardon audio system's speakers were relocated to the dashboard, allowing for larger door bins. The storage cubby ahead of the shifter was designed to hold a phone securely, with a wireless charging pad available as an option. However, second-row occupants lacked phone-charging options.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen display, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system included menu shortcut buttons and separate climate controls, with upgrades like an embedded navigation system and JBL premium sound. The TRD Off-Road’s voice-recognition technology was particularly impressive, accurately responding to commands. Additional features included wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree camera, and a digital rear-view mirror.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge introduced the Android Automotive OS, featuring Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Bluetooth connectivity, with a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Recharge model offered OTA update capability, allowing for software updates without visiting a dealership. The absence of a start button and the potential for a Digital Key feature added to its modern appeal.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including automatic emergency braking, radar adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, contingent on specific headlight configurations, and top marks for crash protection and ADAS performance.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA for gasoline models. The XC40 featured a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and rear parking sensors. The Recharge model included Volvo’s latest sensor suite, capable of future enhancements through software updates.