2022 Volvo XC60 vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its rugged and aggressive exterior styling, a testament to its decade-long presence in the market. Despite its age, the GX's design remained coherent, with the massive spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights adding a distinctive touch. However, the interior did not match the modern luxury SUV standards, with wood trim that felt like plastic and an abundance of actual plastic materials. The semi-aniline leather was a standard feature, but overall, the interior felt dated compared to its competitors.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC60 received subtle styling updates that enhanced its sporty appearance. The new front fascia with "air blades" and a reworked grille added a modern touch, while the hidden tailpipes and new wheel designs completed the refreshed look. The interior maintained its clean design, with a new digital instrument cluster and a portrait-oriented touchscreen. The XC60's interior was subdued but elegant, with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats adding flair. The Inscription trim level offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, elevating the luxury feel.

The 2021 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the V8 provided ample power for initial acceleration, the GX's hefty weight of 2,349 kilograms (5,178 pounds) made higher-speed maneuvers challenging. The body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride quality, with noticeable body roll and low grip in corners. However, the GX excelled in off-road capability, featuring a Torsen centre differential, a standard 4WD system with a low range, and Multi-Terrain Select for various surfaces. It boasted a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms (6,500 pounds) and a ground clearance of 20.5 centimetres, making it a formidable off-road vehicle.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 options. The B5 produced 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 offered 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC60's mild-hybrid system provided smooth power delivery, and the B6 version accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. The XC60 prioritized a calm and comfortable driving experience, with impressive body control and a quiet cabin. The optional air suspension further enhanced ride quality. Additionally, the XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, with a zero to 60 mph time of 5 seconds, while the Polestar Engineered variant increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, achieving 60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics reflected its age, with an upright dashboard and high centre console limiting legroom. The steering wheel's odd angle and tall seating position contributed to a bus-like driving feel. Despite these drawbacks, the GX offered excellent outward visibility, thanks to its boxy profile and low side glass. However, forward visibility was hindered by the tall hood. The GX featured three rows of seating for seven, but the third row was best suited for children due to limited space. Cargo capacity was limited, with only 1,833 litres available with the second and third rows folded, and minimal space with the third row in use.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Legroom was average for the segment. The mild-hybrid models offered 611 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,410 litres with them folded, while plug-in hybrid models had slightly less capacity. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors. Despite its somewhat limited cargo space, the XC60 offered a comfortable and practical interior layout.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It included Bluetooth and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, but the infotainment system felt outdated, with graphics reminiscent of the 1990s. The touchscreen interface was basic, but Lexus provided analog controls for most functions, offering a straightforward user experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen running the Android Automotive operating system. The system included Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and access to third-party apps via the Google Play Store. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot were standard, with options for a head-up display and upgraded sound systems. The new layout allowed for intuitive sideways swiping to access menus, and the system supported both Android and iPhone users, although Android users benefited from additional functionality.

The 2021 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, but it came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including a pre-collision system, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, but the GX missed out on some advanced safety features available in other Lexus models.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for the 2022 model year, but the 2021 model received top safety ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Volvo's driver assistance system, combining adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring, was available as an option, providing a comprehensive suite of safety features.