2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2024 Lexus TX

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. Updates for 2023 included 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 sealed-off grille. Inside, the XC40 featured a minimalist design with thin air vents, dual-zone automatic climate control, and optional leather upholstery. The XC40 Ultimate test vehicle included a panoramic moonroof and an Orrefors crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt somewhat utilitarian.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented a more upscale appearance with 22-inch wheels enhancing its presence. The TX's styling was conservative, appealing to those who found previous Lexus designs too bold. Available in TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, the TX offered a range of luxury features. The TX 350, likely the volume seller, came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard AWD. The interior, while luxurious, was criticized for its dark tones, even with a panoramic sunroof. The TX's cabin was equipped with premium materials and offered a comfortable ride, though some features like a massage function were absent.

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 powered by 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 XC40 accelerated 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 had a higher towing capacity than the gasoline model.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, generating 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed a zero to 100 km/h time of roughly eight seconds, though the SUV felt quicker due to its torque delivery. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres, with our test unit averaging 13.8 L/100 km. The TX 350 offered a balanced ride with firm suspension and accurate steering, though the brake pedal felt soft. The interior remained quiet on the highway, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while compact, offered reasonable space among its competitors. It provided ample rear-seat headroom and average legroom, with generous shoulder room enhancing the sense of spaciousness. Cargo space measured 566 litres with the rear seats up and 1,328 litres with them folded. The XC40 featured practical interior storage solutions, including scalloped door panels and a large centre console storage bin.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs, offering a habitable third-row seat suitable for adults. The TX 350 test unit featured premium materials and standard heated and ventilated seats. The second-row seat, while comfortable, lacked a massage function. The third-row seat provided adequate leg support and visibility, with cargo space measuring 572 litres behind it. Folding the third-row seats expanded cargo capacity to 1,625 litres, and with the second-row seats down, the TX offered 2,746 litres of space. The TX included numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

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 test vehicle included a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and USB-C ports for each row. The infotainment system, while visually appealing, relied heavily on touchscreen controls, which could be cumbersome for some users.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, enhanced by a Drive Connect subscription, offered cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, along with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. However, the head-up display's unmarked steering wheel controls and visibility issues with polarized sunglasses were drawbacks.

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. 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 IIHS and NHTSA, though it had an "Acceptable" rating in the updated side-impact test.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional options included parking sensors and traffic jam assist. The LSS+ 3.0 system was generally smooth and effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in. The traffic jam assist provided hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways.