2023 Lexus RX vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling changes, enhancing its sporty appearance with new front fascia elements called "air blades" and a redesigned rear bumper that concealed the tailpipes. 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, featuring a portrait-oriented touchscreen and a new digital instrument cluster. 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.

The 2023 Lexus RX, entering its fifth generation, was built in Canada and featured a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase than its predecessor, while maintaining the same overall length. The design changes, including a reduced rear overhang and softer lines, gave it a smaller appearance. The front showcased a spindle-style grille integrated into the design, with a modern mesh texture and elevated hood. The RX's exterior styling was familiar yet fresh, distinguishing it from the previous generation and the smaller Lexus NX. Inside, the RX offered a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. The RX 350 was available in various trims, with Canadian pricing starting at $58,650.

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 XC60 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's acceleration times were slightly slower than the 2021 model, with the B5 reaching 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and the B6 in 5.9 seconds. The XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, achieving 60 mph in 5 seconds, while the Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 7.3 seconds. The RX 350 Executive trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion over uneven surfaces, while the F Sport 3 trim, with its adaptive damping suspension, offered a more secure and composed ride. Both models had 21-inch wheels and all-season tires, with the F Sport 3's suspension minimizing unwanted bouncing and rolling. The RX 350 AWD's fuel economy was estimated at 9.9 L/100 km in combined driving, with test results showing 10.5 L/100 km and 10.8 L/100 km.

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 the rear seats up and 1,410 litres with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly reduced cargo capacity. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered comfortable seating, with the F Sport 3's sport seat bolsters providing additional support. The RX 350 Executive featured premium leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The RX 350 F Sport 3 had simulated leather seats and a sportier interior. Both models provided exceptional comfort, with roomy back seats offering good leg support. Cargo space improved over the previous generation, with 838 litres available with the second row in place and 1,308 litres with it folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a built-in 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. The infotainment system supported over-the-air updates and was compatible with iPhones, though without Google profile syncing. The digital instrument cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface multimedia system with a choice of 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreens. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. Drive Connect, free for three years on certain models, offered Destination Assist and Intelligent Assistant voice recognition. User profiles could be set up for different drivers, and streaming services like Apple Music were available. The system's primary drawback was the inability to view multiple data panels simultaneously. The RX also featured a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, digital instrumentation, and optional digital rearview mirror and key technology.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for the 2022 model year, 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 2023 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering advanced driving assistance systems like lane departure warning, automatic high beams, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Semi-autonomous technologies like Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist were also available. LSS+ 3.0 performed well, though some features, like curve-speed reduction, were less effective.