2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge embraced a design philosophy that aimed to ease traditional internal-combustion engine (ICE) drivers into the electric vehicle (EV) world without drastic changes. From the exterior, it closely resembled its gasoline counterpart, maintaining the same basic shape and structure. The most noticeable difference was the solid panel in the grill, replacing the airflow-dependent design of the ICE version. Subtle details like the enlarged fuel-filler flap for the charge port, trim-specific alloy wheels, and the absence of tailpipes distinguished it as an EV. The XC40's design was a testament to Volvo's commitment to quality, with its sleek Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion created by thin pillars. Inside, the XC40 showcased Volvo's Scandinavian design sensibility, offering an airy and roomy cabin with harmonious lines and premium finishes, solidifying its place in the luxury SUV category.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, redesigned in 2019, adopted a more robust and blocky appearance, moving away from its softer crossover styling. The trapezoidal grille, inspired by Toyota's truck line, added a sense of heft, complemented by beveled and angled bodywork. This design approach, initially unique, became more common among competitors like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-50. The interior continued the angular theme with a multi-tiered dashboard featuring beveled cutouts. While the materials were average for its class, the build quality was strong, with no creaks or squeaks over rough terrain. The base model's urethane steering wheel felt cheap, but higher trims offered a leather-wrapped option. Overall, the RAV4 Hybrid's design was practical, with a focus on functionality over luxury.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was a testament to the exhilarating potential of electric vehicles. It featured a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack powering two electric motors, delivering a combined 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. This setup enabled the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, making it one of the fastest in its class. The gasoline-powered XC40 models, the T4 and T5, offered 0-100 km/h times of 8.5 and 6.4 seconds, respectively. The Recharge's regenerative braking system allowed for energy recapture, and its one-pedal drive mode maximized efficiency. With a lower centre of gravity due to the battery placement, the XC40 Recharge handled curves with stability and confidence. It boasted a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities that could replenish 80% of the battery in 40 minutes.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 219 horsepower. It accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 7.5 seconds, making it quicker than the standard RAV4 but slower than the plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime. The RAV4 Hybrid's regenerative braking system seamlessly transitioned between regenerative and physical braking, maintaining a smooth driving experience. Its suspension provided a comfortable ride over bumps and potholes, with confident cornering capabilities. While not sporty, the RAV4 Hybrid excelled in delivering a calm and effortless driving experience, comparable to its rivals in the compact hybrid SUV class.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfort features. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, or "frunk," providing additional storage space for items like the charging cable. Inside, the cabin featured ample cubbies and nooks for modern essentials, with door pockets accommodating water bottles and USB power ports for devices. The front seats provided excellent comfort, while the rear seats were suitable for outboard passengers but tight for a middle passenger. The XC40 Recharge offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided spacious front seats for larger passengers, while the rear seats comfortably accommodated average-sized adults. Although rear headroom was slightly more than competitors, legroom was a bit less, but the differences were negligible. The rear seat cushions were set low, potentially causing discomfort for taller passengers on long trips. The RAV4 Hybrid offered 1,059 litres of cargo space, only slightly less than the non-hybrid version. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, though shorter owners might find it challenging to reach them. Interior storage was a highlight, with a wide dashboard shelf, a phone tray, large cupholders, and a spacious centre armrest bin.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features. It included Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with automated lane centring for highway driving. The Recharge featured a heat pump to extend its range, operating transparently with the climate control system. The infotainment system, powered by Android Automotive, included a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. It offered built-in Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, along with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity. Over-the-air updates kept the system current, though the range reporting system, which displayed charge percentage instead of kilometres, could induce range anxiety.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid introduced a new multimedia infotainment system with modern graphics and logical menus. Most trims featured an 8.0-inch display, while higher trims upgraded to a 10.5-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with an optional wireless charging pad. The system supported over-the-air updates and included a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote vehicle monitoring. The top trim offered a fully digital instrument panel, while the audio system ranged from a standard six-speaker setup to an 11-speaker JBL system on higher trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, while the gasoline version earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Its extensive safety features included collision warning and avoidance, blind-spot information, lane keep assist, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. The XC40 Recharge also featured a new sensor platform for enhanced active safety and Volvo's Connected Safety system, which shared road condition data with other connected Volvo vehicles.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more. In Canada, blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The top trim added parking sensors, automatic braking, and a surround-view camera system. The adaptive cruise control impressed with its smooth operation, and all safety systems functioned reliably.