2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was a testament to the brand's ability to evolve its design language while maintaining its core identity. Known for its conservative styling, Volvo managed to infuse the XC90 with more character without losing its recognizable features. The vehicle retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but with softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights featuring "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim level, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. The XC90 was built on Volvo's Scalable Product Architecture, shared with other models in the "90" and "60" series, and its interior embodied Swedish minimalism with high-quality materials and thoughtful design.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus GX 460's styling reflected its long tenure on the market, retaining the same basic body shell from a decade ago with incremental updates. The GX featured the Lexus spindle grille, updated in 2020, and triple-beam LED headlights. While the exterior styling was kept current, the interior lagged behind modern luxury SUV standards. The wood trim felt like plastic, and the abundance of actual plastic detracted from the luxury feel. Despite these shortcomings, the GX's tough, aggressive look was distinctive and appealing to SUV shoppers. The interior, however, did not match the expectations set by its exterior, with a lack of modern luxury features and a dated design.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centred around a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, boosting output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, or Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors for a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. All models in Canada came with standard all-wheel drive. Despite the impressive power figures, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 engines. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a quiet cabin. It had a towing capacity of 2,250 kilograms, which was respectable but less than some competitors.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 kept things simple with a single 4.6-litre V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The GX's performance was reminiscent of older SUVs, with the V8 providing ample power from a stop but struggling at higher speeds due to the vehicle's 2,349-kilogram weight. The GX's body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride compared to unibody SUVs, with noticeable body roll and low grip in corners. However, the GX excelled in off-road capability, featuring a Torsen centre differential, low-range gearing, and various off-road drive modes. It had a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms and offered features like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select for off-road enthusiasts.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom across all three rows. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. A power sunroof and four-zone climate control enhanced the interior's spacious feel. The Inscription trim offered luxurious front seats with massage functions, but storage space was limited. Cargo capacity was 317 litres with all seats up, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded, placing it near the bottom of the segment.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior reflected its age, with an upright dashboard and high centre console limiting legroom. The steering wheel's odd angle and tall seating position were reminiscent of driving a bus. Visibility was excellent due to the dashboard shape and boxy profile, but forward visibility was hindered by the tall hood. Storage options were limited, with small centre-console bins and cupholders. The GX offered three rows of seating for seven, but the third row was best for children and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited, with only 1,833 litres available with the second and third rows folded, and virtually no space with the third row in use.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, which emphasized simplicity and functionality. It included a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. The system was intuitive, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen that was easy to use. However, the text and typeface could be difficult to read while driving, and the wireless charging pad was too small for most phones. The XC90 also offered a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a head-up display.

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. The infotainment system's graphics were outdated, and the interface was primitive compared to other luxury SUVs. However, Lexus provided analog controls for most functions, offering a refreshing alternative to touchscreen-centric systems.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2021 Lexus GX did not have crash-test ratings from the NHTSA or IIHS. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including a pre-collision system, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked some safety features found in other Lexus and Toyota models, such as traffic-sign recognition.