2022 Volvo XC40 vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior that was reminiscent of a traditional SUV, with its boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end. This design was a departure from the more approachable look of previous RAV4 generations and stood out among other compact crossovers. Despite its aggressive styling, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which was shared with other Toyota models like the Camry. This meant that while the exterior suggested a robust off-road capability, the mechanical underpinnings were more aligned with a conventional car.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge maintained a design closely resembling its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, with subtle differences like a solid panel in the grill and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40 was a well-assembled vehicle with a quality exterior appearance, featuring details like Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion. Inside, the XC40 embraced Scandinavian design, offering an airy and roomy cabin with harmonious dash elements. Volvo's approach was to gently transition buyers to electric vehicles by maintaining familiar design elements, making the XC40 Recharge a genuine luxury SUV.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive. Despite its impressive engine efficiency, the RAV4's transmission was sluggish, and the steering lacked feel, making the driving experience less dynamic. The RAV4 excelled in off-road capability with models like the Trail and TRD Off-Road, which featured torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and a ground clearance of 21.7 centimetres. However, its off-road prowess was limited by its suspension articulation and approach angles.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge, powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery, delivered 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque through dual electric motors, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The Recharge featured regenerative braking and one-pedal driving, enhancing energy efficiency and driving enjoyment. Its lower centre of gravity improved handling, and the suspension setup provided stability. The XC40 Recharge offered a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities. The gasoline XC40 models, T4 and T5, had slower acceleration times and higher fuel consumption compared to the Recharge.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof providing ample headroom and good visibility, though legroom was slightly lacking. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats were less so for long journeys. Cargo space was above average, with 1,059 litres available with the rear seats up and 1,977 litres with them folded. The RAV4's interior featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, though storage space was somewhat limited.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions like a front trunk for additional space. The cabin featured ample storage cubbies, comfortable front seats, and slightly cramped rear seating for middle passengers. The XC40 Recharge provided up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms. The interior design was both functional and stylish, reflecting Volvo's Scandinavian sensibility.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with most trims featuring a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered larger screens. The infotainment system was user-friendly but lacked advanced features like a head-up display. The RAV4 provided up to five USB ports and optional premium audio, but overall, it didn't cater to tech-savvy consumers.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was loaded with technology, including Pilot Assist for highway driving and a heat pump to extend range. It featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel with Android Automotive OS, offering Google services and over-the-air updates. The system's range reporting by percentage rather than distance was a drawback, potentially causing range anxiety. However, the XC40 Recharge's tech offerings were comprehensive and advanced.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. However, it missed the highest safety rating due to mixed headlight scores.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge earned the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It included extensive safety features like collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. The XC40 Recharge also featured Volvo's Connected Safety system, sharing road condition data with other Volvo vehicles, enhancing safety through communication.