2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 demonstrated a design evolution from its original iteration that launched in North America for the 1996 model year. Initially crafted as a small alternative to larger SUVs, the RAV4 quickly gained a following among younger buyers, initiating a segment of car-based SUVs that included competitors like the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue. Over five generations, the RAV4 matured, growing in size and sophistication, ultimately reigning as a top crossover SUV. While the 2022 RAV4’s exterior largely harmonized with the prevalent design trends of crossovers, its distinct angular flourishes in wheel arches and crisp body lines subtly stood out. Toyota’s meticulous fit-and-finish elevated the exterior, with elements like expressive headlights and a snub-nosed grille adding both playful and aggressive touches. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dashboard with contrasting textures and an uncomplicated center stack, featuring a well-placed touchscreen interface. Design cues such as a geometric pattern inspired by circuit boards tied various cabin areas together, reinforcing a sense of continuity in the interior design.

Conversely, the 2023 Volvo XC40 maintained a distinctive presence despite having been on the market for several years. Embracing Volvo’s clean, minimalist design ethos, the XC40 featured a flat-roofed profile characteristic of SUVs, with hidden tailpipes on gasoline models aligning with Volvo’s electrification goals. The 2023 model received updates including pixelated “Thor’s Hammer” headlights, a more angular front bumper, and new wheel designs. These changes, though subtle, offered a freshened look while being hard to miss, particularly on the XC40 Recharge with its sealed-off grille. Sharing the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform with the Volvo C40 Recharge and Polestar 2, the XC40 stood apart as the sole CMA-based model in the U.S. with a combustion engine. Internally, the XC40 echoed Volvo’s minimalist aesthetic with thin air vents flanking a central touchscreen and scalloped door elements. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control and options for leather or vegan leather upholstery, enhancing both style and comfort. Our test vehicle also featured upscale options like a panoramic moonroof and an Orrefors crystal shift knob. However, the overall black interior, while sleek, appeared somewhat utilitarian.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrain choices catering to different performance needs. The gasoline model, which was the focus of this review, came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the gasoline RAV4 was available in both FWD and AWD configurations, boasting fuel economy figures of 27-28 mpg city, 35 mpg highway for FWD models, and slightly lower for AWD versions. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor, generating a total of 217 horsepower with an impressive fuel economy of 41 mpg city and 40 mpg combined. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, delivered 302 horsepower and could run 42 miles on electric power alone, achieving 94 MPGe. Our gasoline Adventure AWD model showcased smooth, turbo lag-free power delivery, responsive acceleration, and retained the car-like handling that made the RAV4 a popular choice among varied drivers.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains as part of Volvo’s electrification strategy. Featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator, this setup enhanced fuel economy and smoothed power delivery. The base B4 powertrain included a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 197 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, available only with FWD. The more potent B5 version generated 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque with standard AWD. The XC40 could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds for the B4 and 6.1 seconds for the B5. Our B5 test model provided a responsive driving experience, though the accelerator pedal required extra pressure for a smooth start. The XC40 Recharge, with its two electric motors and 402 horsepower, offered a remarkable 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and an EPA-rated range of 223 miles.

Through its evolution, the 2022 Toyota RAV4 expanded its dimensions and storage capacity. Despite being classified as a small SUV, it offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, and 69.8 cubic feet with the second row folded flat. This generous cargo capacity, along with a payload capacity of 1,050-1,230 pounds, enhanced its practicality. Towing capacity varied among models, with the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds, making the RAV4 a strong contender for buyers needing occasional towing capabilities. Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four adults, with adequate legroom, hip room, and headroom. Storage solutions abound, including cupholders, bottle holders, a roomy glove compartment, and covered storage under the center armrest.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, by comparison, was more suited for solo commuting rather than family carpooling. Among its competitors, the XC40 was spacious, boasting generous rear-seat headroom and above-average shoulder room, which enhanced the perceived interior space. Cargo capacity measured at 20 cubic feet with seats up, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with seats folded, which was less than what rivals like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3 offered. However, it did feature practical interior storage solutions, with scalloped door panels that accommodated larger items like bottles or handbags, and a spacious center console storage bin.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a thoughtful array of technology across trims. Standard features included a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and compatibility with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa. Stepping up the trims, the XLE models gained a 9-inch touchscreen, while Premium Audio options featured an 11-speaker JBL system and navigation. Highlighting the top trims, especially the RAV4 Prime, the offerings included five USB ports, two 12-volt auxiliary power outlets, an available 120-volt AC power outlet, and ambient illumination across the cabin. A head-up display, wireless charging pad, and bird’s-eye view camera system were notable high-tech features.

For 2023, the Volvo XC40 incorporated an advanced Android-based infotainment system, introduced in earlier Recharge models. This system used Google apps for navigation, voice recognition, and other functionalities, mimicking an always-on Android Auto setup while retaining support for Apple CarPlay. Standard features included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen. Our test vehicle featured a 13-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. The absence of analog controls, replaced by touchscreen commands for most functions, might not resonate with all drivers, especially those preferring traditional buttons for quick access.

Safety features were a hallmark of the 2022 Toyota RAV4. Toyota’s Star Safety System was standard across all models, including vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking systems. The Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite offered advanced driver-assist systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims provided blind-spot monitoring and parking assist. The RAV4 earned impressive safety ratings, including the IIHS Top Safety Pick and an NHTSA five-star rating.

Volvo’s emphasis on safety was evident in the 2023 XC40, which came standard with lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. Higher trims added front and side parking sensors, a 360-degree camera system, and Pilot Assist. Although adaptive cruise control wasn’t standard on the base trim, the XC40 featured a comprehensive safety suite overall. The XC40 received top ratings from the IIHS in most crash tests, aside from an “Acceptable” rating in the updated side-impact test, and a five-star overall NHTSA rating.