2022 Toyota Venza 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, which debuted as a 2016 model. The XC90's design featured a sleek roofline, pronounced wheel arches, and a distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight detail, reflecting its Swedish heritage. 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 Venza, reintroduced for the 2021 model year, was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture K (TGNA-K) platform, shared with several other Toyota and Lexus models. The Venza's exterior design was modern and Lexus-like, with a deeply scalloped body side and a prominent tailgate featuring LED lighting. Its interior offered an elegant layout with high-quality materials, and the cabin felt spacious, especially with the available Star Gaze panoramic sunroof. The Venza's design was more suited for urban environments than off-road adventures, with standard 18-inch alloy wheels and a focus on comfort and style.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid combining a gasoline engine and electric motor for a total of 455 hp. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 achieving 10.1 L/100 km combined, the T6 at 10.8 L/100 km, and the Recharge offering an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode. The Recharge's electric range extended up to 58 kilometres, with charging taking about five hours at 240 volts. The XC90's driving experience was praised for its minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. The Venza's hybrid system balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency, with the rear axle electric motors providing all-wheel drive. Drivers could choose from Normal, Eco, and Sport modes, and the regenerative braking system helped recharge the lithium-ion battery. The Venza's performance was described as sprightly and agile, with a focus on comfort and efficiency rather than aggressive cornering.

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. While the third row was suitable for children, adults might find it lacking in legroom. The XC90 provided 357 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. It could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, making it versatile for family adventures. The interior featured ample storage, a panoramic moonroof, and effective climate control, ensuring comfort in various weather conditions.

The 2022 Toyota Venza seated five in two rows, with ample headroom and legroom. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, accommodating three adults comfortably. The Venza's cargo capacity was 816 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,560 litres with the seats folded. The cabin was designed for convenience, with features like an electric parking brake, sliding sun visors, and multiple cupholders. Toyota focused on creating a quiet and serene interior, using sound-blocking materials throughout the cabin.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was intuitive but occasionally slow to respond. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and optional head-up display enhanced driver awareness. The Advanced package included a 360-degree camera system and an advanced air cleaner. The XC90 also offered a Harman-Kardon audio system and multiple USB ports for device connectivity.

The 2022 Toyota Venza's hybrid system required no special attention, offering a seamless driving experience without the need for charging infrastructure. The Venza LE came with an eight-inch touchscreen, while the XLE and Limited models featured a 12.3-inch display and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. The Limited trim added a head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, and a digital rearview mirror. Toyota Connected Services provided various safety and convenience features, and the Venza's infotainment system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist, which combined several safety functions for highway driving. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Venza came with the Toyota Star Safety System, featuring stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It also included eight airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, offering forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.