2022 Volvo XC60 vs 2022 Toyota Venza

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. The B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, though the overall interior remained somewhat subdued compared to other Volvo models.

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged with a modern design on the Toyota New Global Architecture K (TGNA-K) platform, shared with models like the Avalon and RAV4. Its dimensions placed it at the shorter end of the midsize crossover segment, yet it boasted excellent proportions and a Lexus-like exterior. The Venza's design featured a deeply scalloped body side and a prominent tailgate with LED lighting. Inside, the Venza offered an elegant layout with high-quality materials, a layered dash, and a well-placed touchscreen display. The front seats were supportive, and the rear seats comfortably accommodated three adults, making it a practical choice for families.

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 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 zero to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and the B6 in 5.9 seconds. The XC60's standout features included a quiet cabin and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension. Volvo also offered a plug-in hybrid version, the XC60 Recharge, with 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 5 seconds. The Polestar Engineered model increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a zero to 60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. The hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency, with electric motors at the rear axle providing all-wheel drive. Drivers could choose from electric-only, Normal, Eco, and Sport modes. Regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, while the main charge came from the gas engine. The Venza offered sprightly performance and agile handling, with a wheelbase shared with the Camry. It delivered a comfortable ride, ideal for family use, without encouraging aggressive cornering.

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 cargo capacity. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, suitable for three adults. The cabin felt roomy, especially with the optional Star Gaze panoramic sunroof. Convenience features included an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, electric parking brake, and numerous storage options. The Venza's lithium-ion battery pack had minimal impact on cargo capacity, offering 816 litres behind the second row and 1,560 litres with it folded. Toyota focused on creating a quiet cabin with sound-blocking materials, resulting in a serene driving experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul 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 for voice control and Google Maps for navigation. Android users could sync profiles, while iPhone compatibility was also promised. The system allowed over-the-air updates and featured a new layout with sideways swiping for menu access. The digital cluster could display a map or a "Calm" setting to reduce distractions.

The 2022 Toyota Venza's hybrid powertrain required no charging infrastructure, offering over 800 kilometres on a full tank. The Predicted Efficient Drive (PED) program optimized battery charging based on driving habits. The Venza LE included an eight-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/HD Radio, and SiriusXM. It supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with multiple USB ports and a power liftgate. The XLE and Limited trims added features like a heated steering wheel, JBL audio system, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The Limited also had a head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, and a digital rearview mirror. Toyota Connected Services provided additional safety and convenience features.

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 Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a rearview camera. It had eight airbags and three-point seatbelts for all seating positions. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 offered forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and more. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with additional features on higher trims. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.