2023 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market, continued to build on its legacy of practicality and style. Initially launched in 1996 as a compact alternative to larger SUVs, the RAV4 quickly gained popularity among young buyers, leading to a wave of similar models from competitors. Over the years, the RAV4 evolved, growing in size and sophistication, and by 2022, it had become a mature and leading crossover SUV. The exterior of the 2022 RAV4, while fitting in with the current crossover design trends, featured distinctive angular wheel arches and expressive headlights that gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dashboard with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, complemented by unique design elements like a circuit-board-inspired pattern that tied the cabin together.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 represented a significant departure from Volvo's past boxy designs, showcasing a more refined and purposeful aesthetic. The front end of the XC90 was solid and assertive, with a grille that was bold without being flashy. The recognizable "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch, while the overall shape maintained a rectilinear form without resembling the utilitarian designs of the past. The XC90's Ultimate trim featured 21-inch wheels and a sophisticated paint finish that added depth to its appearance. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with its two-tone leather steering wheel, luxurious Nappa leather upholstery, and tasteful wood deco inlays. The minimalist design was complemented by high-quality materials, although the limited physical controls could be a point of frustration for some users.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a range of powertrains, starting with a gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This model came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a similar engine with an electric motor, delivering 217 horsepower and impressive fuel economy ratings of 5.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.0 combined. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, boasted 302 horsepower and could run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone, with a combined efficiency rating of 2.5 Le/100 km. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the B6 engine, a mild-hybrid powertrain that replaced the older T5 and T6 engines. This setup produced 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, offering a smoother operation and slightly improved fuel efficiency. The mild-hybrid system used a lithium-ion battery to power a 13-volt starter generator, reducing the load on the engine for functions like climate control and ignition. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle's large wheels and thin tires contributed to stable cornering, while the brakes provided a confident pedal feel. Despite its size, the XC90 lacked extensive off-road features, focusing instead on a straightforward driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while still classified as a small SUV, offered impressive cargo capacity with up to 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded flat. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, with different models rated to tow between 680 and 1,588 kilograms. Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four adults, with comfortable front seats and a practical layout featuring numerous storage options. The middle seat in the second row was less desirable but functional for short trips.

The 2023 Volvo XC90, known for its Scandinavian minimalism, faced some challenges with interior space and storage. The front seats were comfortable, but the lack of dedicated storage for smaller items, like cell phones, was noticeable. The second row offered reasonable space, but accessing the third row was difficult, and the cargo capacity was limited compared to competitors. With the third row in use, the XC90 provided 356 litres of cargo space, 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 more compact vehicle, offering a pleasant driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a range of technology features, starting with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and additional features like navigation and Safety Connect. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology with multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and available features like a wireless charging pad and a bird’s-eye view camera system.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch vertically positioned touchscreen running Google OS, integrating Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant. The system supported Apple CarPlay, although iPhones didn't integrate as seamlessly. The XC90's tech relied heavily on the touchscreen interface, which could be frustrating for some users due to the lack of physical controls. However, the natural-language recognition powered by Google Assistant was a standout feature, allowing for voice commands and integration with Google Home devices. Keyless entry was standard, with a head-up display available as an option.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System, which included features like enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It also offered Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a suite of driver-assist systems with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The RAV4 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It came standard with advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The lane-keeping assist and Pilot Assist technology provided additional support, helping maintain distance and lane position at various speeds.