2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, despite its age, maintained a rugged charm that appealed to those seeking a durable and utilitarian vehicle. Its design, largely unchanged over the years, featured a two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches, offering balanced proportions and timeless styling. While not conventionally attractive, the 4Runner's appearance was functional, akin to a reliable tool that didn't require frequent updates. The interior, though dominated by hard plastics, was practical and easy to clean, with a dashboard that boasted large knobs and buttons for straightforward operation. This simplicity, combined with its robust build, endeared the 4Runner to its owners, promising longevity and reliability.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC40 embraced a more modern and sophisticated aesthetic, closely aligning with Volvo's Scandinavian design sensibility. The XC40 Recharge, an electric variant, retained the familiar shape of its gasoline counterpart, with subtle differences like a solid grille panel and unique badging. Inside, the XC40 offered a spacious and airy cabin, with harmonious lines and premium materials that elevated its status to a genuine luxury SUV. The attention to detail, from the Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights to the floating roof illusion, showcased Volvo's commitment to quality and style, making the XC40 a visually appealing choice for those seeking a blend of elegance and functionality.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, provided the 4Runner with the capability to tackle off-road challenges with ease, thanks to features like A-Trac, a locking rear differential, and Multi-Terrain Select. However, on paved roads, the 4Runner felt sluggish and cumbersome, with heavy steering and brakes that required effort, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Its fuel consumption was notably high, averaging 14.0 L/100 km during testing, which limited its range to about 620 kilometres on a full tank.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge, on the other hand, offered a thrilling driving experience with its 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack powering dual electric motors, producing a combined 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. This setup enabled the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, a remarkable feat for a compact SUV. The regenerative braking system, along with the option for one-pedal driving, enhanced efficiency and driving enjoyment. With a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge and the ability to fast-charge up to 80% in 40 minutes, the XC40 Recharge provided a practical and exhilarating alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with ample legroom and supportive seats for both front and rear passengers. The high ground clearance, while beneficial for off-roading, posed a challenge for shorter individuals entering the vehicle. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,540 litres available with the rear seats folded, complemented by a large roof rack for additional storage. The 4Runner's interior, though utilitarian, provided decent storage options for everyday items.

In comparison, the 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in maximizing interior space and functionality. The absence of a traditional engine allowed for a front trunk, or "frunk," providing extra storage for items like charging cables. The cabin featured numerous storage solutions, including door pockets, map pockets, and a bag hook, catering to the needs of modern life. While the rear seats were comfortable for two passengers, the middle seat was less accommodating. The XC40 Recharge offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded, along with a towing capacity of 907 kilograms, making it a versatile choice for various needs.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, particularly in its entry-level Trail grade, was equipped with basic technology features. It included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. While the system was user-friendly, with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation, it lacked the sophistication of more modern setups. Additional packages offered upgrades like dynamic navigation and concierge services, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge, in contrast, was packed with advanced technology. It featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. This allowed for seamless integration with Google services, including Maps and Assistant, as well as over-the-air updates for both the infotainment and vehicle software. The XC40 Recharge also included a heat pump to optimize climate control and extend range, showcasing Volvo's commitment to innovation and convenience.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), offering essential safety features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. However, it lacked more advanced systems like blind-spot monitoring, which was a notable omission given its three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS rated its roof crush strength as "Good," but its small overlap frontal-impact protection was deemed "Marginal."

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, reflecting Volvo's longstanding reputation for safety. It boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and lane keep assist. The XC40 Recharge also introduced a new sensor platform for enhanced active safety capabilities and Volvo's Connected Safety system, which shared road condition data with other connected vehicles, further enhancing its safety credentials.