2024 Lexus TX vs 2023 Volvo XC60

The 2023 Volvo XC60 presented a sophisticated and stylish exterior, with its sleek design and choice of powertrains. The XC60 B5 and B6 models featured turbocharged engines with mild-hybrid technology, offering standard all-wheel drive for enhanced traction. The XC60 Recharge, with its plug-in hybrid powertrain, provided an impressive 58 kilometres of electric driving range before transitioning to hybrid mode. Inside, the XC60 exuded Scandinavian minimalism, with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort. The Ultimate package added luxurious touches like a crystal gear selector knob and a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, making the cabin feel opulent.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander but distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. Its styling was more conservative than other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down design. The TX 350 Executive package included striking 22-inch wheels, enhancing its upscale appearance. Inside, the TX offered premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats as standard. The third-row seat was notably more accommodating than previous Lexus models, providing a comfortable space for adults. However, the second-row legroom was somewhat limited, especially when accommodating third-row passengers.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 455 horsepower and 423 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed the XC60 to accelerate to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds, making it one of the most powerful Volvos ever. The XC60 offered various driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, and Pure, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. In Pure mode, the XC60 achieved an impressive electric-only range of 61 kilometres during testing. The XC60's fuel economy averaged 4.3 L/100 km over a 105-kilometre evaluation route, showcasing its efficiency.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. While its performance was adequate for typical driving situations, the engine's grating note was a drawback. The TX 350 accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately eight seconds, feeling quicker than expected due to its torque delivery. The official fuel economy rating was 10.3 L/100 km in combined driving, but during testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The TX 350's ride and handling were well-balanced, providing a comfortable and composed driving experience. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, as a compact crossover SUV, was best suited for carrying four people comfortably, though it could accommodate five if needed. The front seats offered outstanding comfort with Nappa leather upholstery, heating, ventilation, and power cushion extensions. The back seats were also comfortable, but legroom was limited for taller passengers. The XC60 provided 730 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,792 litres with the seats folded. The power liftgate and ski pass-through panel added convenience, though there was no underfloor storage due to the battery pack.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a habitable third-row seat, accommodating adults comfortably. The second-row seat, while not as welcoming, featured triple-zone climate control and USB charging ports for all rows. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third-row seat, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third-row seats folded. With the second-row seats down, the TX offered an impressive 2,746 litres of cargo space. However, the second-row legroom was limited, and the storage compartments lacked lining, potentially causing noise and vibration.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 9-inch Google Built-in infotainment system. The system included Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play, with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The voice-recognition system was impressive, though it occasionally provided unexpected results. The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivered exceptional audio quality, though it came at a premium price. The XC60's infotainment system was intuitive, with a volume knob and steering wheel controls for easy operation.

The 2024 Lexus TX offered a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display with the Lexus Interface infotainment system. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Drive Connect subscription for cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also featured a digital rearview mirror, head-up display, and surround-view camera. However, the head-up display's unmarked steering wheel controls were frustrating, especially for those wearing polarized sunglasses. The optional Mark Levinson audio system provided impressive sound quality, making it a worthwhile upgrade for audiophiles.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 was synonymous with safety, featuring Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The system excelled on highways, providing smooth and accurate assistance. Oncoming Lane Mitigation helped avoid collisions with oncoming vehicles. While the XC60 Recharge hadn't been crash-tested by the NHTSA, the B5 and B6 models received top marks. The IIHS awarded the XC60 a Top Safety Pick+ rating for 2022, with the possibility of carrying it forward for 2023.

The 2024 Lexus TX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist added braking and steering assistance, though it wasn't entirely transparent. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways. However, the TX's response to vehicles cutting in was too dramatic, causing frustration for following drivers.