2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic updates from its 2020 facelift. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX 350 offered seating for five, while the RX 450h hybrid model provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating a bold yet restrained design. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented look with 20-inch wheels, unique front fascia, and sportier exterior elements. Inside, the RX maintained a luxurious appeal, with F Sport models featuring specific badging and sporty trim. However, the interior design felt slightly dated, and the comfort of the NuLuxe seats was less than ideal, with limited lumbar support and challenging driving position adjustments.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 maintained its distinctive, SUV-like profile, combining Volvo's design language with a clean exterior. Updates for 2023 included pixelated "Thor’s Hammer" headlights, a more angular front bumper, and new wheel designs. The XC40 shared its platform with other Volvo and Polestar models, making it the only CMA-based model in North America with a combustion engine. Inside, the XC40 featured a minimalist design with thin air vents and scalloped door elements. The interior offered dual-zone climate control and optional leather upholstery, with vegan leather for Recharge models. The XC40 Ultimate test vehicle included a panoramic moonroof and Orrefors crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt somewhat utilitarian. Despite being Volvo's entry-level model, the XC40's fit and finish were commendable.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid combined a V6 with two electric motors for a total of 308 hp. All RX models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of sporty dynamics and a V6 engine note that was more hum than growl. The F Sport models included performance dampers and adaptive variable suspension, but the drive modes offered minimal differentiation in handling. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections with ease. Fuel consumption for the RX 350 was rated at 12.2 L/100 km city, 9.0 highway, and 10.8 combined, with the hybrid RX 450h offering improved efficiency at 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator. The B5 models in Canada were equipped with a 2.0-litre turbo-four-cylinder engine, delivering 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 models could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, offering a reasonably quick performance. The XC40's refinement stood out, with composed handling and a smooth ride. The XC40 Recharge, with its two electric motors, produced 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and a range of 359 kilometres. The Recharge also offered a higher towing capacity than the gasoline model.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults, with a snug fit for five. Front headroom measured 1,001 mm, with 993 mm in the rear (970 mm in the hybrid). Legroom was ample at 1,120 mm in the front and 964 mm in the rear. The three-row L models shared the same wheelbase, resulting in limited space for the third row. Cargo space in the standard RX was 453 litres behind the second row, expanding to 923 litres with the seats folded. The three-row models offered 210 litres with all seats up, increasing to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while compact, offered reasonable space for its class. It matched the BMW X1 for rear-seat headroom and was slightly behind the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class in front-seat headroom. Legroom was average, but generous shoulder room enhanced the sense of space. Cargo capacity was 566 litres with the rear seats up and 1,328 litres with them folded, less than the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. The XC40 included a power tailgate and keyless entry. Interior storage was well-designed, with scalloped door panels providing flexibility for bottles or handbags, and a spacious centre console storage bin.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version standard on the 450h L and optional on other trims. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the touchscreen's positioning was ergonomically challenging, with a lip obstructing access to icons. The infotainment system was responsive, but the touchpad control was hypersensitive and frustrating. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, wireless charging, a WiFi hotspot, and premium audio systems. The Lexus App provided remote engine start and vehicle settings.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 adopted an Android-based infotainment system, using Google apps for navigation and voice recognition. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 9-inch touchscreen were standard, with a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system in the Ultimate trim. The infotainment experience was similar to other Volvo models with Android systems, though Apple users might find it less satisfying. The XC40's minimalist design meant most controls were on the touchscreen, with only a large volume knob as an analog control.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional headlights, but missed the top-tier designation due to headlight ratings. It received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Upgrading to the Plus trim added parking sensors and a 360-degree camera, while the Ultimate included adaptive cruise control and Pilot Assist. The XC40 received top ratings from the IIHS in most crash tests, though it dropped to "Acceptable" in the updated side-impact test. The NHTSA awarded the gasoline XC40 a five-star overall rating.