2022 Volvo XC60 vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling updates, featuring a new front fascia with "air blades" for a sportier look, a redesigned rear bumper that conceals the tailpipes, and fresh wheel designs. The front grille was reworked to house sensors for driver-assist systems behind a heated Volvo logo, ensuring functionality in cold weather. Built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, the XC60 shared its foundation with other Volvo models like the XC90 and S90. Inside, the XC60 retained its clean design with a new digital instrument cluster, a portrait-oriented touchscreen, and minimal clutter. The B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, while the Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a design reminiscent of its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights as distinguishing features. The interior, though not as dated as the exterior, shared themes with the original GX. The cabin was crafted with the smooth refinement Lexus is known for, providing a quiet ride with only the faint sound of the V8 engine. Available in Standard, Premium, and Executive trims, the GX's pricing ranged from $72,100 to $83,750, excluding destination charges. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the GX 460 Premium, started at $80,550.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 versions. Both featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt electrical system and an integrated starter generator, providing an additional 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 variant also included an electric supercharger. The B5 delivered 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 offered 295 hp and 310 lb-ft. Both used an eight-speed automatic transmission and came with standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The XC60 B5 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and the B6 in 5.9 seconds. The XC60's standout features were its quiet cabin and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds, while the Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with a base curb weight of 2,325 kg, was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine producing 301 hp and 329 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. This allowed the GX to tow up to 2,948 kg and achieve a 0 to 60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. A six-speed automatic transmission paired with a full-time 4WD system, distributing 40% of power to the front wheels and 60% to the rear. The GX's drag coefficient was 0.35, contributing to a fuel consumption estimate of 14.5 L/100 km. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) improved stability and off-road capability. Despite its age, the GX offered a refined ride, though the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy. The Premium Package added off-road features like Multi-Terrain Select and Panoramic View cameras.

The 2022 Volvo XC60's interior space remained unchanged, offering competitive passenger space with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Legroom was average for the segment. Mild-hybrid models provided 611 litres of cargo space with rear seats up and 1,410 litres with them down, while plug-in hybrids offered slightly less. The XC60 featured a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. Its tall, narrow design made it maneuverable in various settings, though the steering required effort. The interior featured comfortable seats and physical controls, though some were confusingly placed. The Black Line Special Edition included NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and triple-zone climate control. The rear seat was challenging to access, and the third row was cramped and reduced cargo space. The side-opening tailgate was cumbersome, and cargo capacity was limited to 1,833 litres with seats folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech upgrade with a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system integrated Google Assistant, Google Maps, and third-party apps, with over-the-air updates. It was compatible with iPhones, though Android users benefited more. The digital cluster offered a "Calm" setting to reduce distractions.

The Lexus GX 460 featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, navigation, and a CD player. The system offered a dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition. Intuitive Parking Assist became standard, with optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed, but the system was praised for its functionality.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2021 model received top ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. An optional driver assistance system combined adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring.

The Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings due to its age, but it included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. It also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors.