2022 Toyota Highlander vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling changes, enhancing its sporty appearance with a new front fascia featuring "air blades" and a redesigned rear bumper that concealed the tailpipes. The front grille was reworked to house sensors for driver-assist systems behind the 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, highlighted by a new digital instrument cluster and a portrait-oriented touchscreen. While the B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, the overall interior remained subdued compared to other Volvo models.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander boasted a modern and somewhat aggressive front-end design, with flared fender arches and a distinctive third-row window. Despite its spacious interior, the exterior design cleverly made the Highlander appear smaller. The XSE trim, in particular, stood out with its bold red leather interior, unique exterior styling, ambient lighting, and sport-tuned suspension. The Highlander offered a range of trims, each with varying features, from the base LE with standard AWD and an 8-inch touchscreen to the luxurious Limited and Platinum trims with premium amenities like a panoramic moonroof and a JBL audio system.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 versions. Both powertrains combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system, providing an additional 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 variant also featured an electric supercharger, delivering 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. All XC60s in Canada came with standard AWD, and the B6 could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. The XC60's smooth power delivery and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension, emphasized luxury over sportiness. Additionally, the XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, while the Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. Power was delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission to standard AWD. The Highlander offered various drive modes, including Sport, Normal, and Eco, as well as AWD modes for different terrains. While the V6 provided ample power for highway cruising and overtaking, it was less lively from a standstill. The Highlander's handling was commendable, with the XSE trim's sport-tuned suspension reducing body roll while maintaining a comfortable ride. The Highlander could tow up to 2,268 kilograms and had a max payload of 775 kilograms.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Cargo capacity for mild-hybrid models was 611 litres with rear seats up and 1,410 litres with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models offered slightly less cargo space. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander offered up to 2,387 litres of cargo space with the second- and third-row seats folded. With the second-row seats in use, cargo space was 1,370 litres, and with all seats deployed, it was 453 litres. The Highlander featured convenient storage solutions, including deep front door pockets and a spacious centre console. The XSE trim's second-row captain's chairs provided a centre aisle to the rear seats, enhancing comfort for long trips. While the second row was spacious for adults, the third row was best suited for short trips.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen running the Android Automotive operating system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The system integrated Android-specific features like Google Assistant and Google Maps, with over-the-air updates. While iPhone compatibility was promised, Android users benefited from syncing their profiles with the car. The system's graphics were praised, and the new layout allowed for intuitive navigation.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander came standard with Bluetooth connectivity, five USB ports, and an 8-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system, while not wireless, offered a straightforward layout with hard buttons for ease of use. The XSE trim included a wireless charging pad and additional USB ports. A larger 12.3-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL stereo system were available options.

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

The 2022 Toyota Highlander came standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. All trims featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional safety features included parking sensors and a surround-view monitor. The Highlander received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.