2023 Volvo XC60 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 an aggressive yet restrained design. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented appearance with 20-inch wheels, black-housing mirrors, and unique front fascia. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury appeal with soft-touch surfaces and high-quality materials, though the centre stack felt dated. The F Sport models added sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the comfort of the NuLuxe seats was lacking, with limited lumbar support and difficulty in finding an ideal driving position.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, known for its Scandinavian minimalism, offered a stylish and comfortable interior. The test vehicle, in Recharge spec with the Ultimate package, featured black leather seats, wood trim, metal accents, and a panoramic sunroof, creating an opulent atmosphere. The XC60's exterior, with its Thunder Grey paint and blacked-out trim, looked appealing and modern. The interior space was designed for comfort, with supportive front seats wrapped in Nappa leather and heated rear seats. The XC60's cargo area was practical, with 730 litres of space behind the back seat, expandable to 1,792 litres with the seats folded. The air suspension allowed for easier loading, and a ski pass-through panel added versatility. Despite its compact size, the XC60 provided a spacious feel, enhanced by the large sunroof.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid model combined a V6 with electric motors for a total of 308 hp. All 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 disappointing engine note. The F Sport models included performance dampers and adaptive variable suspension, but the drive modes, including Sport and Sport+, offered minimal changes in driving dynamics. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections and providing a serene driving experience. Fuel efficiency for the RX 350 was rated at 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid achieved 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 455 horsepower and 423 lb-ft of torque. The PHEV powertrain offered an estimated 58 km of electric driving range. The XC60's driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, and Pure, allowed for tailored performance, with Power mode enhancing responsiveness and handling. The XC60's acceleration was impressive, reaching 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The updated powertrain provided a more powerful electric motor, contributing to a fun driving experience. The XC60 Recharge achieved an average fuel economy of 4.3 L/100 km during testing, with the ability to recharge the battery while driving in Charge mode. The one-pedal driving function and regenerative brakes further enhanced efficiency.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its standard two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models, with a 2/3/2 seating configuration, provided limited space for passengers and cargo. The RX's cargo capacity ranged from 453 litres behind the second row to 1,657 litres with both back rows folded, though the seats did not fold completely flat. The high load-in height and sporty bumper design affected cargo accessibility. Interior features included a smartphone slot, adjustable-height cup holder, and a head-up display button.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, a compact crossover, was best suited for four passengers, with comfortable front seats wrapped in Nappa leather and heated rear seats. The XC60's cargo area offered 730 litres of space behind the back seat, expandable to 1,792 litres with the seats folded. The air suspension allowed for easier loading, and a ski pass-through panel added versatility. The XC60's interior storage included practical spots in the centre console and door bins, though the console bin was small. The power liftgate and well-shaped cargo area enhanced usability.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available. The touchscreens, positioned atop the centre stack, were ergonomically unfriendly, with access issues due to the design structure. The infotainment system offered voice commands and a touchpad, though the latter was hypersensitive and unintuitive. The RX included six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. Additional features included climate control, premium audio systems, and the Lexus App for remote personalization.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 came with a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 9-inch Google Built-in infotainment system. The system provided access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play, with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The touchscreen's intuitive interface and voice-recognition system impressed, though occasional quirks were noted. The XC60's optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivered exceptional audio quality. The infotainment system allowed for voice-operated climate control and music streaming, enhancing convenience and connectivity.

The 2022 Lexus RX was equipped 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 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, but missed the "plus" designation due to headlight ratings. The NHTSA awarded the RX four stars overall, with five stars in side crash tests.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, known for its safety innovations, featured Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centring capability. The system excelled on highways, providing smooth and accurate assistance. Oncoming Lane Mitigation helped avoid collisions with oncoming vehicles. The XC60 B5 and B6 mild-hybrids received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The XC60 Recharge's safety ratings were not assessed by the NHTSA.