2021 Volvo XC90 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, introduced the previous year, improved off-roading capabilities with a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, multiple driving modes, and downhill assist control. The 2020 model further advanced with the TRD Off-Road package, featuring matte-black 18-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, and a TRD suspension setup, offering a superior ride on various surfaces. The TRD Off-Road was distinguishable by its unique wheels, tires, and badges, while the interior boasted TRD logos, rubber floor mats, and a mix of quality materials and inexpensive plastics.

The 2021 Volvo XC90, since its 2016 debut, successfully reshaped Volvo's image with a design that retained traditional styling features while adding character. The XC90 maintained a boxy profile and blunt front end but introduced softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights. The Inscription trim, with extra chrome and optional 21-inch wheels, was the flashiest, while the R-Design offered a sportier look. The XC90 shared its platform with other Volvo models, emphasizing Swedish minimalism in its interior with natural-looking wood trim and unique upholstery options. The Orrefors crystal shifter added a high-end touch, albeit slightly out of place in the otherwise restrained interior.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid, a separate model, offered 219 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency, but the TRD Off-Road package was not available for it. The non-turbo, non-hybrid powertrain provided adequate performance, especially in Sport mode, though a turbocharged engine would have been preferable for high-altitude driving. The eight-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally struggled with gear selection. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system, multi-terrain select settings, and downhill assist control, making it capable on challenging trails. Despite its off-road focus, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road excelled in urban environments, with a smooth ride and useful features like a 360-degree camera system and JBL premium sound system. Fuel efficiency averaged 10.0 L/100 km, slightly higher than the official estimate.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 was turbocharged, producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 added a supercharger for 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric motors for a total of 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. AWD was standard in Canada. Despite the power, the small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines, and the XC90 often required the gasoline engine for acceleration. The XC90 offered three drive modes, but the Pure mode was limited to low speeds. The ride quality was excellent, aided by an optional air-suspension system, and the cabin was quiet. The XC90 had a towing capacity of 2,250 kilograms, suitable for moderate loads.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy access with well-positioned seating and a sporty driving position. The driver's seat was power-adjustable, while the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment but provided good support. The RAV4 Trail featured SofTex upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat legroom was generous, with air conditioning vents and USB ports for passengers. Interior storage was ample, with a dashboard shelf and significant cargo space: 1,062 litres behind the rear seats and 1,974 litres with them folded. Roof rails and a roof rack added utility.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six- or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom for the segment. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. An optional power sunroof and standard four-zone climate control enhanced the interior's spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, though the steering wheel was not power-adjustable. Storage was limited, with a shallow centre console and few options on the console. Cargo space was 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, below average for the segment.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4's technology was user-friendly, with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen depending on the trim. The 8-inch system in the Trail trim had some glare issues but was otherwise satisfactory. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and connected services with free trials. Menu shortcut buttons and separate climate controls enhanced usability. The TRD Off-Road's voice-recognition technology was impressive, and the vehicle featured wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree camera, and a digital rear-view mirror.

The 2021 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system emphasized simplicity, with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The system included USB ports, a Bowers & Wilkins audio system, and a head-up display. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was intuitive, though the text was sometimes hard to read while driving. The wireless charging pad was small, and only second-row USB-C ports were available, limiting front-seat connectivity.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, featuring automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The systems were accurate and smooth, encouraging use. Toyota offered a free 1-year subscription to Safety Connect services. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with top marks for crash protection and ADAS performance, though headlight performance varied.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. Headlights and LATCH anchors received "Acceptable" ratings. The NHTSA gave the XC90 a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered extensive standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, driver-attention monitor, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.