2022 Lexus GX vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 showcased a sleek and athletic profile, with pronounced wheel arches and a distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight design. Inside, the XC90 exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trim, a crystal gear selector, and options for leather or tailored wool blend upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX retained a design reminiscent of its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and LED headlights as its distinguishing features. The cabin, while crafted with Lexus's renowned quality, offered a more traditional layout with physical controls. The GX's interior was comfortable, with NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim in the Black Line Special Edition. However, the narrow rear door openings and limited third-row space made access challenging, and the side-swinging tailgate added to the inconvenience. Despite its dated design, the GX provided a quiet and refined driving experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid combining a gasoline engine and electric motor for a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's fuel efficiency varied, with the Recharge model achieving an impressive 8.8 L/100 km combined in hybrid mode and a 29-kilometre EV range. The driving experience was smooth and agile, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-litre V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, allowing for a 7.8-second sprint to 60 mph. The GX's six-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD system provided a 40/60 power split between the front and rear wheels. Despite its hefty curb weight and high drag coefficient, the GX managed a fuel consumption estimate of 14.5 L/100 km combined. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) enhanced the GX's stability and off-road capability, while the slow steering and touchy brakes detracted from the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults would find it cramped. The XC90 offered 357 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. The SUV's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof enhancing the airy feel. The XC90's climate control system performed admirably during a heat wave, and its AWD system and heated features made it well-suited for winter conditions.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position and clear visibility, with comfortable seating and physical controls. However, the narrow rear door openings and challenging third-row access limited its practicality. The GX's cargo space was constrained by the third-row seat, offering 328 litres behind it and 1,833 litres with all seats folded. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading, especially in tight spaces. Despite these limitations, the GX's interior was well-padded and equipped with triple-zone climate control for passenger comfort.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality and standard Bluetooth. While the system was occasionally glitchy, Apple CarPlay improved its performance. The XC90 also included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a Harman-Kardon audio system on higher trims. USB ports were available for device charging, and the Advanced package added a 360-degree camera and advanced air cleaner.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The dual-screen view allowed simultaneous navigation and radio display, while voice recognition technology was quick and accurate. The GX also featured Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras, though the stereo controls' placement was less intuitive.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's commitment to safety, offering a comprehensive suite of features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. The XC90 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, reinforcing its reputation as a safe family vehicle.

The 2022 Lexus GX, lacking crash-test ratings, relied on the Lexus Safety System+ for collision avoidance, with features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. While the GX included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, it lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors. However, the absence of intrusive driving aids contributed to a favourable driving experience.