2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while moving towards a more luxurious market segment. After being acquired by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, Volvo developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 showcased a sleek and athletic profile, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. Its design elements, such as the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights, paid homage to its Swedish heritage. Inside, the XC90 offered a "Scandinavian Modern" aesthetic with natural wood and metal trim, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery, catering to different preferences.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, redesigned in 2019, adopted a more robust and angular appearance, drawing inspiration from Toyota's truck line. This design choice was mirrored by other manufacturers in subsequent years. The RAV4 Hybrid's interior featured a multi-tiered dashboard with beveled cutouts, providing visual interest. While the materials used were average for its class, the build quality was solid, with no noticeable creaks or squeaks. The base model's urethane steering wheel felt less premium, but higher trims offered a leather-wrapped option. Overall, the RAV4 Hybrid's design was practical and functional, appealing to a wide range of drivers.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered a choice of three powertrains. The T5 model featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre gasoline four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 model added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The Recharge model, previously known as the T8, combined a supercharged/turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. All models came with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's fuel efficiency varied, with the Recharge model achieving an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode and a 4.0 Le/100 km with a 29-kilometre EV range. The driving experience was smooth and responsive, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 219 horsepower. It accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 7.5 seconds, making it quicker than the standard RAV4. The hybrid system included a second electric motor for all-wheel drive, and the brakes utilized regenerative technology to charge the battery. The RAV4 Hybrid's suspension provided a comfortable ride over bumps and potholes, with confident cornering. While not sporty, it offered a balanced driving experience that was easy and effortless, similar to its competitors in the compact hybrid SUV class.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was available in six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold mechanism. While the third row was suitable for children, adults might find it lacking in legroom and thigh support. The XC90 offered 357 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,008 litres with the third row folded, and up to 1,855 litres with both the second and third rows down. It could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage options and a standard panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well, even in extreme weather conditions, and the XC90 was equipped with features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid provided ample space for front passengers, while the rear seats comfortably accommodated average-sized adults. The rear seat cushions were slightly low, which might affect thigh support for taller passengers on long trips. The RAV4 Hybrid offered 1,059 litres of cargo space, comparable to its non-hybrid counterpart and competitors like the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Kia Sportage. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, though shorter individuals might find it challenging to reach them. Interior storage was a highlight, with a wide dashboard shelf, a phone tray for wireless charging, large cupholders, and a spacious centre armrest bin. Dual-zone climate control was standard on all trims except the base Hybrid LE.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, which offered tablet-like functionality with intuitive gestures. However, it was occasionally glitchy and slow to respond. The system included a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, and options like a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. Keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system were standard on higher trims. The XC90 also provided USB-A and USB-C ports for device charging.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid introduced a new multimedia infotainment system with modern graphics and logical menu arrangements. Most trims came with an 8.0-inch display, while higher trims offered 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. Higher trims featured a fully digital instrument panel and an 11-speaker JBL audio system, while most models had a six-speaker setup.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aid. The Pilot Assist system combined several safety functions for enhanced highway driving. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which included features like forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added parking sensors, a surround-view camera system, and a digital rearview mirror. The safety systems performed reliably, with smooth adaptive cruise control inputs.