2025 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was available in three model series: B5, B6, and Recharge T8. The B5 featured a turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the B6 added a supercharger for enhanced performance. The Recharge T8 was a plug-in hybrid, offering the highest performance and efficiency, with an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. All models came standard with all-wheel drive. The XC90 was offered in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trim levels, with prices ranging from $56,000 to $79,600, excluding the destination charge. The Recharge T8 in Ultimate trim, priced at $89,145, included luxurious features like massaging front seats, a premium headliner, and a high-end audio system. The exterior design was characterized by a subdued and earthy color palette, with various wheel designs up to 21 inches. The interior, though dated, was adorned with rich materials, including wool-blend upholstery and natural wood trim, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner represented a significant evolution in design, maintaining the horseshoe-shaped grilles of the previous generation but with a bulkier, more industrial look. The side body panels featured deep beveled creases, giving the SUV a broad-shouldered stance suitable for off-road adventures. The design paid homage to earlier generations, with features like the slanted rearmost window. Inside, the 4Runner's cabin echoed the beveled styling motif, offering a purposeful yet comfortable environment. While there was an abundance of hard plastic for durability, light cushioning was provided where needed. The materials quality was superior to that of a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco but not as refined as a Land Rover Defender. The interior was nearly identical to the Toyota Tacoma pickup truck, with a focus on practicality and functionality.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor, producing a total of 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Recharge T8 offered 32 miles of electric-only driving, with an average of 27 mpg in hybrid mode. In Power mode, it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in five seconds. Recharging options included a standard household outlet or a 240-volt outlet for faster charging. The XC90 featured multiple driving modes, including Pure, Power, Hybrid, and Off-Road, with up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance. However, during testing, the electric range fell short at 28 miles, and fuel economy was 24.5 mpg. The XC90's performance was lively, with plenty of power, but it lacked thrilling handling. The ride quality was firm, and the cabin was not as quiet as expected for a luxury SUV.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine options. The standard 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produced 317 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with four-wheel drive available. The i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain combined the four-cylinder engine with a 1.87-kWh battery pack, delivering 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid variant provided stronger power at lower speeds, ideal for off-roading. The 4Runner was quieter inside, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys. It was more composed on pavement, with improved handling and steering. The 4Runner's off-road capabilities remained impressive, with nine trims offering varying levels of off-road abilities. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models were the most capable, with approach angles between 18 and 33 degrees, departure angles between 22 and 24 degrees, and ground clearance between 8.1 and 10.1 inches.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8, even in Core trim, was well-equipped with features like power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, wood trim, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims offered additional amenities like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats with massage, and an integrated booster child seat. The front seats had adjustable lower leg support bolsters, though they could catch on clothing when entering the SUV. The XC90 provided a commanding driving position with good sightlines. However, the climate control system struggled to cool the cabin in Pure mode. The XC90 seated seven, with a comfortable second-row bench and a tight but accommodating third row. Cargo capacity was 65.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 85.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner was five inches longer than its predecessor, with a 2.4-inch longer wheelbase. While front seat space was ample, the middle row offered only adequate legroom. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models but was cramped and uncomfortable. The cockpit was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and grouped off-road controls for easy use. The 4Runner featured auxiliary light controls and manual headlight adjustments. Off-road models included terrain programs, camera views, a locking rear differential, and a disconnectable stabilizer bar. Towing capacity ranged from 5,800 to 6,000 pounds. Storage included door pockets, a dashboard tray, and a center armrest bin. Cargo capacity was 44.8 cubic feet, reduced to 42.6 cubic feet in hybrid models due to the battery. A sturdy roof rack supported up to 800 pounds.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. These features were free for four years, with a subscription required afterward. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard, with premium audio options available. The infotainment system was intuitive, though the 9-inch screen was small by modern standards. The XC90 included a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and optional head-up display and surround-view camera.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered an 8-inch or optional 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, both with logical menus and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad were available. Hybrid models included a digital instrument panel. Off-road models featured external camera views and on-screen menus for terrain information. A 14-speaker JBL audio system and portable Bluetooth speaker were available. Remote monitoring, control, and a digital key function were included.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was known for its safety, with a five-star NHTSA rating in all but rollover resistance, where it earned four stars. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+ in 2023. However, its advanced driving assistance systems were not as innovative as rivals. The XC90 included Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist. While generally smooth, Pilot Assist struggled with certain road conditions and made a significant error during testing, affecting confidence in the system.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's crash test results were unavailable, but the Tacoma, on which it was based, was an IIHS Top Safety Pick. The 4Runner included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with features like frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Proactive Driving Assist was included but could be intrusive. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts was optional.