2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned with a focus on design, offered a range of models including the NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, stood out with its distinctive Lexus spindle grille and refined styling reminiscent of the Lexus IS sports sedan. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. The interior featured a minimalist design with NuLuxe simulated leather upholstery, and the F Sport trim added sporty elements like a unique grille, 20-inch gloss black wheels, and sport-bolstered seats. However, the decluttered dashboard, with many functions integrated into the touchscreen, could be confusing for drivers initially.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution from Volvo's past boxy designs. The XC90's purposeful yet understated front end, assertive grille, and modern "Thor’s Hammer" headlights marked a departure from the utilitarian aesthetics of earlier models. The Ultimate trim, with its 21-inch wheels and Platinum Grey paint, added a touch of drama to the otherwise stoic design. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with two-tone leather steering, metal speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather seats. The minimalist interior, with wood deco inlays, offered a clean look, though it lacked ample storage space for small items.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. The NX 350 F Sport added adaptive variable sports suspension and performance dampers, enhancing its dynamic capabilities. While the NX 350 felt smooth and responsive on desert roads, it lacked the refinement of German rivals' turbocharged engines. The NX's off-road capabilities were limited by its ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the B6 engine with mild-hybrid technology, replacing the older T5 and T6 engines. The B6 powertrain, with a supercharger and turbo, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, offering improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The mild-hybrid system's auto stop-start technology was nearly imperceptible, enhancing fuel savings. The XC90's handling was commendable, with minimal roll through corners, and its brakes provided a solid pedal feel. However, the XC90 lacked extensive off-road features, focusing instead on a straightforward driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided a comfortable interior with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. The F Sport trim offered better bolstering for the front seats, while rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities like rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, enhancing the sense of space. Cargo capacity increased by 14% to 643 litres behind the back seat, expanding to 1,328 litres with the seats folded.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was peaceful and pleasant, though Scandinavian minimalism led to limited storage space for small items. The second row was comfortable but adjusting the seats was challenging. The XC90 offered a seven-passenger configuration with a second-row bench seat, or six-passenger seating with captain's chairs. Accessing the third row was difficult, and space was limited. Cargo capacity was 356 litres with the third row in place, expanding to 1,183 litres with the seats folded, and maxing out at 1,856 litres. Despite its smaller size, the XC90 drove like a smaller car than typical three-row SUVs.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant strides in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. It featured large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Voice Assistant technology. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system optional. The NX also offered a digital mirror, head-up display, and various connected services, though the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch vertical touchscreen running Google OS, with Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant as standard features. The system supported Apple CarPlay, though iPhones were less compatible. Natural-language recognition was a highlight, and owners could issue commands via Google Home devices. However, many functions were buried within the touchscreen interface, leading to frustration. Keyless entry was standard, and a head-up display was optional.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Oncoming Pedestrian Detection. The Emergency Driving Stop System brought the NX to a safe stop if the driver was unresponsive. The NX also offered blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist technology.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, with a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The lane-keeping assist provided gentle nudges and vibrations to keep the vehicle on track. Volvo's Pilot Assist technology helped maintain distance from the car ahead, supporting a safe driving experience.