2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid 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 moving towards the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new vehicle platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90. The SUV's design featured a sleek roofline, pronounced wheel arches, and a distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight detail, all contributing to its upscale appearance. Inside, the XC90 boasted a "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" aesthetic, with natural wood and metal trim, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid drew styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, with a rugged trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added visual weight, making it appear somewhat disjointed compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander featured an asymmetrical dash with a metallic styling element and a high-mounted infotainment touchscreen. The Bronze Edition test vehicle included unique bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, which, while distinctive, attracted dirt and stains. The Softex synthetic leather substitute was less convincing than alternatives, and genuine leather was only available on higher trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 hp. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Recharge model boasted an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode and a 29-kilometre EV range. The XC90's driving experience was praised for its minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, particularly in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 100 km/h in just over eight seconds, with the electric motors providing initial acceleration before the gasoline engine took over. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension effectively smoothing out road imperfections. The cabin remained quiet on highways, although the engine's drone was noticeable under heavy acceleration.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six- and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. The third row was suitable for children, while the cargo capacity ranged from 357 litres behind the third row to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. The XC90's interior featured ample storage, a panoramic moonroof, and effective climate control, making it a comfortable family vehicle.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, although the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. The second row offered generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench seat. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or small adults on short trips. Cargo space ranged from 453 litres behind the third row to 2,387 litres with all seats stowed. Higher trims included a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering smartphone-like gestures and Bluetooth functionality. However, the system was occasionally glitchy and slow, performing better with Apple CarPlay. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, head-up display, and 360-degree camera system were available. The XC90 included multiple USB ports and a Harman-Kardon audio system on higher trims.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging on higher trims. Navigation and a JBL premium audio system were included on Limited and Platinum trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid also achieved high safety ratings, with a five-star overall score from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. However, some systems required fine-tuning for smoother operation.