2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2023 Volvo XC40 maintained its distinctive and clean design, characterized by a flat-roofed profile that was quintessentially SUV-like. Volvo's commitment to electrification was evident in the hidden tailpipes of gasoline models, while fog lights were standard on Plus and Ultimate trims. Updates for 2023 included a pixelated design for the "Thor’s Hammer" headlights, a more angular front bumper, and new wheel designs. The XC40 shared its Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform with the Volvo C40 Recharge and Polestar 2, making it the only CMA-based model in North America available with a combustion engine. Inside, the XC40 featured a minimalist design with thin air vents, dual-zone automatic climate control, and optional leather upholstery. The Ultimate trim offered luxurious options like a panoramic moonroof and an Orrefors crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt somewhat utilitarian.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was priced at just over $50,000 for the base Hybrid LE, with AWD standard in Canada. The Highlander Hybrid's appearance remained largely unchanged, save for a new Cypress Green paint colour. The design was bold, with exaggerated forms and a visually aggressive stance. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid featured a super-sized cabin with large air vents, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and oversized climate control knobs. However, the interior's mismatched textures and tones, along with reflections from the display, made it visually overwhelming. The quality of materials was questionable, with controls that felt inexpensive and storage areas that were unlined, leading to potential noise issues. Despite these drawbacks, the Highlander Hybrid was notably quiet on the road, a testament to Toyota's focus on cabin noise reduction.

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 could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, offering a refined driving experience with smooth power delivery. 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 a range of 359 kilometres. The Recharge also boasted a higher towing capacity of 2,000 kg compared to the B5 AWD model's 1,587 kg.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motor-generators, producing 243 combined horsepower. The electric motors assisted in acceleration and allowed for low-speed electric-only driving. However, the gas engine's 175 lb-ft of torque limited high-speed passing power. The Highlander Hybrid could tow up to 1,588 kg, but its performance in mountainous terrain was underwhelming, with brake fade being a concern. The SUV offered Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, with AWD and a Trail mode for light off-road conditions. Fuel economy was a focus, with a Predictive Efficient Drive system, though real-world consumption was higher than expected at 8.2 L/100 km. The Highlander Hybrid's driving experience was uninspiring, with soft suspension and a CVT that detracted from engagement.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while marketed as an SUV, was more suited for solo commuting than family carpooling. It offered reasonable space, with competitive rear-seat headroom and average legroom. Cargo capacity was 566 litres with the rear seats up and 1,328 litres with them folded, less than some competitors. Interior storage was well-designed, with large door panel carve-outs and a spacious centre console.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was designed for family life, seating seven or eight depending on the configuration. Most models featured second-row captain’s chairs, with the third row best for occasional use. Standard features included three-zone climate control and heated front seats, with additional comforts in higher trims. The second-row seats were spacious and comfortable, while the third row was cramped and difficult to access. The Highlander offered 453 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and a maximum of 2,387 litres with the second row down. However, the storage console design was complex, and the all-weather cargo mat compromised utility.

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 trim included a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and USB-C ports for each row. The system's graphics were pleasing, but the lack of analog controls made some functions cumbersome.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, with upper trims receiving a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a new Toyota Audio Multimedia system. The Limited trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen with over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM. Connected services included Remote Connect and Drive Connect, with an Intelligent Assistant and cloud-based navigation. The test vehicle also had a head-up display and an 11-speaker JBL sound system. While the platform was user-friendly, the graphics lacked contrast, making visibility challenging.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like adaptive cruise control and Pilot Assist. The XC40 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though it had an "Acceptable" rating in the updated side-impact test.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with Safety Connect providing additional emergency assistance features.