2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while adding a touch of modern flair. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but introduced softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, 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. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism," featuring high-quality materials and a restrained design, with options like wool upholstery and a crystal shifter adding unique touches.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a continuation of its 2019 redesign, evolved from its original "cute ute" image to a mature crossover SUV. Its exterior styling, while fitting in with current crossover trends, featured angular wheel arches and expressive headlights that gave it a playful yet aggressive look. The RAV4's interior boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and a user-friendly centre stack. The cabin's design was tied together with a geometric pattern, and the test vehicle's 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels echoed this theme. The RAV4's fit and finish elevated its overall quality, making it a strong contender in the SUV market.

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. While the XC90's power was impressive, its small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines. The XC90 excelled in luxury, offering a smooth ride with its optional air-suspension system and maintaining a quiet cabin. It also had a respectable towing capacity of 2,250 kilograms.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 provided three powertrain options. The gasoline-only model featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAV4 Hybrid used a similar engine with an electric motor, producing 217 combined hp and offering excellent fuel economy. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid boasted 302 hp and could run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and AWD models featuring Multi-Terrain Select and dynamic torque vectoring. The gasoline AWD models also had a fuel-saving rear-driveline disconnect.

The 2021 Volvo XC90, available in six- or seven-seat configurations, offered average headroom and legroom for its segment. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. A power sunroof and upright roof profile enhanced the interior's spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, but lacked a power-adjustable steering wheel. Cargo space was limited, with 317 litres behind the third row, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with all seats down. A hands-free power tailgate was a convenient feature.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered impressive cargo capacity with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with different models rated for various towing weights. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable for four, with ample space in the front seats. The XLE grade added dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The cabin featured numerous storage options, including cupholders, bottle holders, and a roomy glove compartment.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, known for its simplicity and functionality. It came with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. Optional features included a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a head-up display. The touchscreen was user-friendly, but the text and typeface made reading menus difficult while driving. The wireless charging pad was a welcome addition, though it struggled to fit larger phones.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a range of technology features, starting with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and smartphone integration. Higher trims included a 9-inch touchscreen, 11-speaker JBL audio, and navigation. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced tech with five USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and ambient lighting. Top trims also offered a wireless charging pad, bird’s-eye view camera, digital rear-view mirror, and a 10-inch head-up display.

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 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota's Star Safety System and Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like stability control, traction control, and adaptive cruise control. It also included LATCH anchors, child-guard locks, and eight airbags. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA gave the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid five-star ratings.