2022 Volvo XC90 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

The 2021 Toyota Highlander was a standout in the midsize SUV category, with a design that was anything but boring. Its wide headlights, long hood, and assertive trapezoidal grille gave it a distinctive presence. The character line along the side, reminiscent of the Supra sports car, and Lexus-like taillights added to its appeal. The Highlander XSE trim introduced a sportier look with a restyled front end, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a unique front fascia. Inside, the Limited trim offered a luxurious experience with near-flawless fit and finish, tan leather seats, and elegant wood details, making it a comfortable choice for families prioritizing comfort and convenience.

The 2022 Volvo XC90, on the other hand, embraced a more upscale and modern design, moving away from its boxy predecessors. Its sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches emphasized athleticism, while the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights paid homage to its Swedish roots. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian luxury, featuring natural wood and metal trim, a crystal gear selector, and a spacious cabin. Volvo's commitment to sustainability was evident with options for leather-free upholstery. The XC90's interior was both stylish and functional, offering ample storage and a panoramic moonroof that enhanced the airy feel of the cabin.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it offered both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. While not designed for high-speed thrills, the Highlander provided smooth and reliable performance, comparable to competitors like the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride. The XSE trim added sportier suspension tuning, but the Highlander remained a comfortable family vehicle rather than a performance SUV.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 offered a range of powertrains, including the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 250 horsepower, and the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 horsepower. The Recharge model combined a gasoline engine with an electric motor for a total of 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, making it a fun and engaging SUV to drive.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander excelled in interior space and practicality. It featured large shelves ahead of the front seats for storage, and second-row passengers enjoyed ample legroom with available captain's chairs. The third row was suitable for adults only if the second row was adjusted. Cargo space was generous, with 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,150 litres with the third row folded, and 2,245 litres with both rows down.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered flexible seating configurations for six or seven passengers. The third row was best suited for children, but the interior was well-designed for family use, with ample storage and a spacious cabin. Cargo capacity was slightly less than the Highlander, with 357 litres behind the third row, 1,008 litres with it folded, and 1,855 litres with both rows down. The XC90 also boasted a towing capacity of up to 2,250 kilograms, making it versatile for various needs.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch screen available on the Platinum trim. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, navigation struggled with points of interest. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard, enhancing connectivity. The JBL audio system provided decent sound quality, but the large screen's limited app display was a drawback.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered a tablet-like interface with a 9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. While intuitive, it occasionally lagged, but Apple CarPlay improved performance. The 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and optional head-up display enhanced driver awareness. The Advanced package added features like a 360-degree camera and advanced air cleaner, while a Harman-Kardon audio system was standard on higher trims.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, featuring automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. It received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, ensuring peace of mind for families.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It also earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, reinforcing its reputation as a safe and reliable choice.