2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2023 Toyota RAV4

The 2023 Volvo XC40 maintained its distinctive design, characterized by a flat-roofed profile and a clean exterior that aligned with Volvo’s pro-electrification ethos. The gasoline models featured hidden tailpipes, and the Plus and Ultimate models came standard with fog lights. 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 by 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. Despite being Volvo’s entry-level model, the XC40 boasted good fit and finish, though the materials reminded us of its entry-level status.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 offered a range of trim levels in Canada, from the RAV4 LE to the more luxurious RAV4 Limited. The Trail trim, which we tested, featured a more aggressive grille, blacked-out wheels, and additional cladding, though it was more style than substance. The interior of the Trail trim included orange accents and contrast stitching, with a frameless rearview mirror adding a touch of premium feel. The RAV4 provided a rugged, truck-like experience, with fabric upholstery and heated front seats standard on the LE and XLE trims. The XLE Premium package upgraded to synthetic leather upholstery, while the Limited trim offered heated and ventilated power-adjustable seats with memory settings. The RAV4’s interior was practical, with ample storage options and a lever-style gear shifter that complemented its rugged aspirations.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator. This setup improved fuel economy and power delivery smoothness. 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, offering a refined driving experience with a top speed electronically limited to 180 km/h. 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 had a higher towing capacity of 2,000 kg compared to the B5 AWD model’s 1,587 kg.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4, now with standard all-wheel drive, featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the RAV4’s performance was more functional than thrilling. The Trail trim, with its 19-inch wheels and all-season tires, shared the same suspension setup as other RAV4s, providing a competent but unremarkable driving experience. The RAV4’s engine was noisier than some competitors, but it offered a reliable and practical option for everyday driving.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while marketed as an SUV, was better suited for solo commuting than family carpooling. It offered competitive rear-seat headroom, tying with the BMW X1, and slightly less front-seat headroom than the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class. Legroom was average, but generous shoulder room added to the sense of spaciousness. The XC40 provided 566 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,328 litres with them folded, less than some competitors. Interior storage was well-designed, with large door carve-outs and a spacious centre console.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 seated five and offered 958 mm of front headroom and 1,001 mm in the rear, providing more rear headroom than the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester. Front legroom was 1,039 mm, with 960 mm in the back, comparable to the CR-V but less than the Forester. The RAV4’s interior featured practical storage solutions, including a shelf above the glove compartment and large door pockets. Cargo space was generous, with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded, placing it ahead of some competitors but behind the Honda CR-V.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 featured an Android-based infotainment system with Google apps, including Google Maps and Google Assistant. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 9-inch touchscreen were standard, with a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system available on higher trims. The system’s graphics were pleasing, but users preferring Apple might find the Google integration less satisfying. The minimalist design meant most controls were on the touchscreen, which could be less intuitive for some functions.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen standard and a 10.5-inch screen on the Limited trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with voice command and connected services. The Trail trim did not receive the upgraded system, which was reserved for the Limited trim, along with an 11-speaker JBL audio system. A 7-inch driver-information display was standard, with a 12.3-inch version on the Limited trim.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Upgrading to higher trims added features like a 360-degree camera and adaptive cruise control. 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 RAV4 came with standard safety features like lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The TSS 2.5 suite included Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The RAV4 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with top scores in most crash tests.