2022 Volvo XC60 vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling updates, enhancing its sporty appeal with a new front fascia featuring "air blades" and a redesigned rear bumper that conceals 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, with a new digital instrument cluster and a portrait-oriented touchscreen. While the interior was generally subdued, the B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats. The Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its second generation into its 14th year without a major redesign, maintaining a mature design. Its exterior featured a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines, giving it a substantial presence. The Sequoia's dimensions included a height of 1,956 mm, width of 2,030 mm, and length of 5,210 mm, with a wheelbase of 3,099 mm. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was typical of Toyota, with high-quality materials and tight seams. However, it appeared dated compared to modern SUVs, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. The Nightshade Special Edition model, based on the Limited trim, showcased Toyota's efforts to keep the Sequoia relevant.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 options. 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. 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, 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 emphasized luxury over performance, with a quiet cabin and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, 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 Toyota Sequoia featured a single powertrain option: the 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, it included a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential and a two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia boasted a payload capacity of up to 608 kg and a towing capacity of 3,221 kg. Despite its weight of around 2,721.5 kg, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent highway performance and off-road capabilities. Its fuel consumption ratings were 18.5 L/100 km in the city, 13.9 on the highway, and 16.4 combined. The Sequoia's body-on-frame construction and ground clearance made it a competent off-roader, with the TRD Pro model featuring Fox shocks for enhanced performance.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Legroom was average for the segment. The mild-hybrid models offered 611 litres of cargo space with rear seats up and 1,410 litres with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly less capacity, at 597 litres and 1,396 litres, respectively. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows with ample headroom and legroom. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and heated front seats as standard. The Platinum grade added heated rear seats. The Sequoia's cargo area included a 12-volt outlet, with 535 litres of space behind the third row. Power-folding the third row expanded capacity to 1,886 litres, and folding both the second and third rows provided 3,401 litres of space.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system included Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and access to third-party apps via the Google Play Store. Over-the-air updates were supported, and iPhone compatibility was promised. The infotainment system's graphics were praised, with a new layout for easy navigation.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system appeared outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a clunky operating system. However, it offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with Bluetooth connectivity. The Platinum and TRD Pro trims added navigation and a JBL premium audio system. While the Sequoia lacked modern powertrain technology, it featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety systems like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

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 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. However, it offered the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. The STAR safety system included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. A full complement of airbags and other safety features were standard.