2022 Toyota Highlander 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 Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, leading to the current XC90, which launched as a 2016 model on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. The XC90's exterior featured a sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches, with a nod to its Swedish heritage through the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights. Inside, the XC90 boasted "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" styling, with natural wood and metal trim, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander showcased a modern, aggressive front-end design with flared fender arches and a distinctive third-row window. Despite its spacious interior, the Highlander appeared compact from the outside. The XSE trim, with its bold red leather interior and sport-tuned suspension, stood out for its unique styling. The Highlander offered a range of trims, from the base LE with standard AWD and an 8-inch touchscreen, to the upscale Limited and Platinum trims with features like a panoramic moonroof and a JBL premium audio system. The Highlander's interior was designed for practicality, with clever storage solutions and ample space for passengers and cargo.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre 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 gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft. All models featured AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's fuel efficiency varied, with the Recharge model achieving an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode and a 4.0 Le/100 km with a 29-kilometre EV range. The XC90 was praised for its handling, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The Highlander offered drive modes including Sport, Normal, and Eco, as well as AWD modes for different terrains. While the V6 provided good pickup at cruising speeds, it was less lively from a standstill. The Highlander's handling was commendable, with the XSE trim's sport-tuned suspension reducing body roll while maintaining comfort. The Highlander could tow up to 2,268 kilograms and had a max payload of 775 kilograms.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six- or 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 space ranged from 357 litres behind the third row to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. The XC90's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a standard panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well even in extreme heat, and the XC90's AWD and heated features made it suitable for winter conditions.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander provided up to 2,387 litres of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, and 453 litres with all seats in use. The Highlander's interior was designed for practicality, with deep door pockets, multiple storage compartments, and cupholders even in the third row. The XSE trim featured second-row captain's chairs, offering a centre aisle to the rear seats. While the second row was spacious for adults, the third row was best suited for short trips.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality and standard Bluetooth. However, the system was occasionally slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and optional head-up display. The XC90 included a Harman-Kardon audio system on higher trims and multiple USB ports for device charging.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Bluetooth connectivity and five USB ports. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with hard buttons complementing the touchscreen. A wireless charging pad and additional USB ports were available in the XSE trim. An optional 12.3-inch touchscreen and JBL premium stereo system were also offered.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist for assisted driving. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, reflecting Volvo's commitment to safety.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander featured the Toyota Safety Sense suite, with forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, dynamic radar cruise control, and more. Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were included, with additional safety features available on higher trims. The Highlander also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.