2022 Volvo XC60 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, characterized by its blunt and bulbous nose, which gave it an aggressive appearance. Over time, however, this design became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling was further accentuated by black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect, and swollen haunches that attempted to balance the overall look. Despite these efforts, the design was somewhat overwhelmed by the cartoonishly-flared quarter panels, even when equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid offered a two-tone interior with soft leather for higher trims, but the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing could suffer from reflections. The mix of illumination colours in the gauges also contributed to a busy appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling changes that enhanced its sporty appeal. The new front fascia featured "air blades" on either side of the grille, while a redesigned rear bumper concealed the tailpipes. The XC60's interior maintained its clean design, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal clutter. The B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, though the overall interior felt subdued compared to other Volvo models. The XC60 Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, adding a touch of luxury to the cabin.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. The new engine delivered a total output of 243 horsepower and was rated to use 6.7 L/100 km in combined driving. Despite the efficiency gains, the Highlander Hybrid's performance was lacklustre, with adequate power for climbing hills and reaching freeway speeds, but the engine sounded strained during hard acceleration. The steering was lifeless, and the SUV's handling was marred by unwanted body movement, especially on uneven roads. However, the regenerative brakes operated smoothly, and the electric motor torque provided a quiet and comfortable ride on flat terrain.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 options. The B6 powertrain, with its turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-litre engine, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The XC60's performance was smooth and refined, with the B6 version achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. The SUV excelled in providing a calm and comfortable driving experience, with impressive body control in corners and a quiet cabin. The optional air suspension further enhanced ride quality, emphasizing luxury over sportiness. The XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid offered even more power, with 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque, while the Polestar Engineered variant increased output to 415 horsepower and 494 lb-ft, delivering a more performance-oriented experience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered roomy and supportive accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with 10-way power seat adjustment for the driver. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the narrow cabin made it uncomfortable for three adults. The third-row seat was cramped and lacked support, making it unsuitable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 453 litres behind the third row and a maximum capacity of 2,387 litres. However, the storage design was less accommodating than the previous generation, and the wireless smartphone charger blocked access to the storage area.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Cargo capacity was 611 litres with the rear seats up and 1,410 litres with them folded, though plug-in hybrid models offered slightly less space. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, despite the pinched roofline. Large exterior mirrors aided in driving without relying on driver aids.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with a comprehensive infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim added a head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, and an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system. The system's user interface was intuitive, with large knobs and shortcut buttons for easy access. However, the JBL sound system's audio quality varied depending on the music genre. The Highlander also offered Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror for improved visibility.

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. The digital instrument cluster displayed maps and offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions. The infotainment system was compatible with both Android and iPhone users, though Apple users might find the Google-based design less appealing. The new layout allowed for easy navigation through menus with sideways swiping.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and lane departure with steering assist. The system added intersection support and emergency steering assistance for 2021. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four stars in frontal-impact crash tests.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 shared similar safety ratings with the 2021 model, receiving a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. 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 combined adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring, providing a reliable but no longer standout feature.