2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Volvo XC40 maintained its distinctive design, characterized by a flat-roofed profile and a clean exterior that avoided unnecessary detailing. The gasoline models featured hidden tailpipes, aligning with Volvo's pro-electrification ethos, and standard fog lights on Plus and Ultimate models. For 2023, Volvo introduced subtle updates, including a pixelated design for the "Thor’s Hammer" headlights, a more angular front bumper, and new wheel designs. The XC40 Recharge was easily identifiable with its new sealed-off grille. Inside, the XC40 continued with its minimalist design, offering features like thin air vents, dual-zone automatic climate control, and optional leather upholstery. The Ultimate test vehicle included a panoramic moonroof and an Orrefors crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt somewhat utilitarian.

The 2023 Lexus GX, with its massive spindle grille and 206 mm ground clearance, presented a commanding visual presence. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned with limited availability and exclusive paint options. Despite its imposing front, the GX's dimensions seemed to shrink along the sides, with a short wheelbase and minimal overhangs, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. The interior, however, was marred by an abundance of plastic, which detracted from its luxury badge. Despite this, the GX offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery. The GX's design leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to Toyota's blocky designs, making it easier to navigate technical driving scenarios.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator. The B5 models in Canada were equipped with a 2.0-litre turbo-four-cylinder engine, producing 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 models could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, outperforming the Audi Q3. The XC40 Recharge, with its two electric motors, delivered 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and offering a 359-kilometre range. The Recharge also boasted a higher towing capacity of 2,000 kg compared to the B5 AWD model's 1,587 kg.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the V8 offered a satisfying linear power delivery. The GX had a towing capacity of 2,948 kg, though it lagged behind other SUVs in this regard. Fuel economy was a downside, with estimates of 16.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city. The GX's weight contributed to its predictable roll through corners, and its driving dynamics were improved with a Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and a 4WD system. The brakes were strong and reliable, and the GX's road feel was surprisingly communicative.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while marketed as an SUV, was better suited for solo commuting than carpooling. It offered reasonable space among its competitors, with ample rear-seat headroom and average legroom. The XC40 provided 566 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,328 litres with them folded. Interior storage was well-designed, with scalloped door panels and a spacious centre console.

The 2023 Lexus GX retained ample cubby space, with a deep centre console bin and conveniently placed cupholders. The GX featured hard buttons for controls, which some users preferred over touchscreens. The second row was comfortable, with captain’s chairs and good legroom, but the third row was too tight for regular use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 328 litres behind the rear seats and 1,322 litres with the third row folded. The side-hinged trunk door required effort to open and limited access.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 featured an Android-based infotainment system with Google apps, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 9-inch touchscreen. The B5 Ultimate model included a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was visually pleasing but lacked analog controls, making some functions less intuitive.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt dated. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, offering integrations like SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. The GX included a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system and a CD player. While the touchscreen was functional, it lagged behind newer Lexus models. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a 4WD system, downhill assist, and a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 was equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The XC40 Plus added parking sensors and a 360-degree camera, while the Ultimate included adaptive cruise control and Pilot Assist. The XC40 received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though it had an "Acceptable" rating in the updated side-impact test.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it included the Lexus Safety System+ with features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were up-to-date.