2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was designed with a focus on easing traditional internal-combustion engine (ICE) drivers into the electric vehicle (EV) world. It maintained a familiar aesthetic, closely resembling its gasoline counterpart, with subtle differences like a solid panel in the grille and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40 Recharge was a stylish compact SUV, featuring Volvo's signature Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion created by thin pillars. Inside, the XC40 offered a spacious and airy cabin, characterized by Scandinavian design elements and premium finishes, positioning it as a genuine luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, giving it a rugged appearance with a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight. The rear design echoed the front grille, but the overall look felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid featured an asymmetrical dash with a metallic styling element and a high-mounted infotainment screen. The Bronze Edition introduced unique design elements like bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, though the latter was prone to dirt and stains. The interior materials were less convincing compared to other SUVs in its class.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, driving two permanent magnet electric motors for all-wheel drive (AWD). It delivered an impressive 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in just 4.9 seconds. The XC40 Recharge featured regenerative braking, which recaptured energy during deceleration, and offered a one-pedal driving mode for maximizing efficiency. Its low centre of gravity, due to the battery placement, contributed to stable handling. The XC40 Recharge had a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge and could fast-charge from 0-80% in 40 minutes.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with a hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It used a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard AWD, with an electric motor powering the rear axle when needed. The Highlander Hybrid reached 100 kilometres per hour in just over eight seconds. Its hybrid powertrain provided a quick initial response, but the gasoline engine's hum became more pronounced under heavy acceleration. The braking system seamlessly transitioned from regenerative to physical brakes, and the ride quality was soft yet confident. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in comfort, with a quiet cabin on highways.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfort features. It featured a front trunk ("frunk") for additional storage, ample cabin cubbies, and USB power ports for devices. The front seats were comfortable, while the rear seats were suitable for outboard passengers but tight for a middle passenger. The XC40 Recharge provided up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. It provided plenty of storage options, including trays, shelves, and large door pockets. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench for increased capacity. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with advanced technology, including Pilot Assist for adaptive cruise control and lane centring. It featured a heat pump to extend range and a 9.3-inch touchscreen with Android Automotive, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play integration. The infotainment system supported over-the-air updates, though the range display showed a percentage rather than kilometres, which could cause range anxiety.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on top trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging on higher trims. Limited and Platinum trims included navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and had extensive standard safety features, including collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. It featured a new sensor platform for enhanced active safety and Volvo's Connected Safety system for sharing road condition data with other vehicles.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid achieved a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The Platinum trim offered a surround-view camera and head-up display. Some systems, like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, required fine-tuning for smoother operation.