2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD, priced at $45,341, presented a blend of rugged styling and practical design. Despite its fully loaded status, it resembled a typical rental car, lacking the larger alloy wheels of its non-hybrid counterpart. The RAV4 Hybrid's electronic AWD system was not suited for a Trail trim level, unlike the non-hybrid version. Its exterior, with a tough appearance, could have benefited from bolder wheels. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid offered a stylish and functional cabin, though the quality varied with a mix of impressive materials and hard plastics. A rattle from the license plate on the tailgate was noted during the test.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge maintained a familiar design, closely resembling its internal-combustion engine (ICE) counterparts. The most noticeable difference was the solid panel in the grill, replacing the traditional airflow design. The XC40 Recharge featured trim-specific 19-inch alloy wheels and "Recharge" badging, distinguishing it as an EV. The vehicle's exterior was well-assembled, with even gaps and a quality finish. Inside, the XC40 showcased Scandinavian design, with an airy cabin and harmonious dash elements. Volvo's steady progression into the premium category was evident in the XC40 Recharge's luxury SUV status.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder gas engine with front and rear electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. This setup provided a standard AWD drivetrain, with the front motor generating 149 lb-ft of torque and the rear motor 89 lb-ft. The RAV4 Hybrid offered several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV, with a whirring noise in EV mode for pedestrian awareness. The SUV's curb weight ranged from 1,680 to 1,720 kilograms, and it achieved a fuel efficiency of 5.9 L/100 km during testing. The CVT operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. The RAV4 Hybrid's suspension design and Active Cornering Assist system enhanced ride and handling, though the tires lacked grip. The SUV handled well on various roads, with a flat cornering stance and favourable dynamics.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack powering two electric motors, delivering 402 horsepower and 486 lb-ft of torque. This allowed the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The gasoline XC40 models, T4 and T5, had slower acceleration times. The Recharge's regenerative braking system recaptured energy efficiently, and the one-pedal drive feature maximized regenerative braking. The XC40 Recharge's lower centre of gravity improved handling, and its suspension setup provided stability. The vehicle's fuel efficiency was rated at 2.8 Le/100 km combined, with a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge. Fast-charging capabilities allowed for quick recharging.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front cushions, and a heated steering wheel. Rear-seat legroom and foot space were decent, with a reclining backrest. The dashboard layout was intuitive, with oversized climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. Storage options included dashboard shelves and rear-seat amenities. The cargo area provided 1,059 litres of space, expandable to 1,977 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, with clever storage solutions and comfort features. The front trunk offered additional storage, while the cabin had ample cubbies and nooks. The front seats were comfortable, and the rear seats accommodated outboard passengers. The XC40 Recharge's cargo area offered up to 1,628 litres of space with the second row folded. The vehicle's towing capacity was 907 kilograms.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured infotainment systems with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreens, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The larger screen included SiriusXM satellite radio and various connectivity options. The top-tier system had an 11-speaker JBL audio system with dynamic navigation. The infotainment display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. Camera-based technology included a 360-degree surround-view camera system and a camera rearview mirror.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with advanced technology, including Pilot Assist for highway driving. The vehicle featured a heat pump to extend range and a 9.3-inch touchscreen with Android Automotive OS. Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store were integrated, with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth also available. The infotainment system supported over-the-air updates, though the range reporting method was criticized for causing range anxiety.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. The SUV received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and top marks from IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. It featured extensive safety equipment, including collision warning, blind-spot information, and lane keep assist. The vehicle's top speed was electronically capped, and a new sensor platform enhanced active safety features. Volvo's Connected Safety system shared road condition data with other vehicles.