2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 marked 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 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" aesthetic with natural wood and metal trim, offering a choice between Nappa leather and a tailored wool blend upholstery.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, tested in Santa Barbara, California, presented a more minimalistic interior design with contemporary textures and ambient lighting. The RX 350h Luxury model featured Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance model offered a sportier look with artificial suede and dark grey aluminum trim. Despite its popularity, the RX's exterior design remained somewhat unremarkable, with a blunt nose and a wheelbase stretch that visually reduced the rear overhang. The RX's interior was comfortable, with ten-way power-adjustable front seats and a three-zone automatic climate control system, making it a pleasant space for passengers.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, including 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 excelled in fuel efficiency, achieving 8.8 L/100 km in hybrid mode and offering an EV range of up to 58 kilometres. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, making it enjoyable to drive.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a more efficient powertrain with the RX 350h, producing 246 hp from a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and achieving 6.5 L/100 km in combined driving. The RX 500h F Sport Performance model offered a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine with 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, reaching 100 km/h in about 6 seconds. Despite its performance, the RX 500h's fuel economy fell short of expectations, averaging 11.3 L/100 km. The RX 350h, however, delivered better fuel efficiency at 7.4 L/100 km, making it a more economical choice.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 provided flexible seating configurations for six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults might find it lacking in legroom. The XC90 offered ample cargo space, with up to 1,855 litres available with the second and third rows folded. It also featured numerous storage compartments and a standard panoramic moonroof, enhancing the cabin's spacious feel. The climate control system performed well, even in extreme weather conditions, ensuring a comfortable environment for occupants.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid prioritized passenger comfort with its well-appointed interior. The RX 350h Luxury model featured premium leather seats with heating and ventilation, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance model offered sportier seating with larger bolsters. The RX's battery placement under the rear seat provided excellent leg support, though rear headroom was somewhat limited. Cargo space was improved over the previous model, offering 838 litres behind the rear seat and 1,308 litres with the seat folded, though it still lagged behind some competitors.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. While the system offered intuitive smartphone-like gestures, it was occasionally slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with the former performing better during testing. The Advanced package added a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system, enhancing driver awareness and safety.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a cloud-based navigation system and an Intelligent Assistant. While the system generally performed well, it had some limitations, such as the inability to view multiple menus simultaneously and issues with screen reflections. The available head-up display featured dual-function touch-sensing control pads, which could be challenging to use with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving capabilities, making highway journeys safer and more relaxing. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, reinforcing its reputation as a safe choice for families.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering advanced driver assistance features such as motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. The Proactive Driving Assist technology helped maintain safe distances and speeds, while the Traffic Jam Assist system allowed for low-speed, hands-free driving. However, some features, like the front cross-traffic alert and curve-speed reduction, had room for improvement.