2021 Toyota Sequoia vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia, despite its age, maintained a robust presence with its large silhouette and subtle updates from 2018. The Nightshade Special Edition added a touch of modernity, but the overall design still echoed its 2007 roots. Inside, the Sequoia's cabin was spacious, though the front seats felt bulky, limiting headroom for taller drivers. The second row offered ample space, and the seats throughout were comfortable and supportive. The Sequoia's trims ranged from the entry-level SR5 to the off-road-ready TRD Pro and the luxurious Platinum, each offering a variety of features and options to suit different needs.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 showcased a sleek and modern design, with a stance that suggested agility and a roofline that cleverly concealed its size. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian luxury, featuring natural wood and metal trims, and a choice between Nappa leather and a tailored wool blend upholstery. The XC90's cabin was airy and spacious, with a focus on comfort and practicality. The third row was best suited for children, but the overall interior space was well-utilized, making it a family-friendly option. The XC90's design and materials reflected its upscale positioning, offering a luxurious experience for its occupants.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, provided strong acceleration, though it lagged in fuel efficiency compared to modern transmissions. The Sequoia's driving dynamics were reminiscent of a truck, with a soft suspension and strong brakes, offering a confident ride. It could tow up to 7,400 pounds, which was less than some competitors but still respectable for its class.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain options: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 horsepower, and the T8 plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 horsepower. The XC90's engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. The T8 model, in particular, offered spirited acceleration with its electric motor, enhancing the overall performance. The XC90's handling was impressive for its size, with minimal body roll and a refined ride quality.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia boasted a spacious cabin with nearly 19 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 120 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. Its power-retractable rear window was a unique feature, adding convenience for quick access. While the front-row space could have been better utilized, the Sequoia offered ample storage options, including deep door pockets and a large center console.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 provided flexible seating configurations, accommodating six or seven passengers. The third row was more suitable for children, but the overall interior space was well-designed, offering 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 85.7 cubic feet with seats folded. The XC90's interior was thoughtfully arranged, with plenty of storage options and a standard panoramic moonroof enhancing the cabin's airy feel. The XC90 also excelled in climate control, providing a comfortable environment even in extreme weather conditions.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. While the system was dated, it was user-friendly with straightforward menus and physical buttons. The digital trip computer was small but functional, offering essential information without overwhelming the driver.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered a tablet-like interface with a 9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. While intuitive, it occasionally lagged, but Apple CarPlay integration improved its performance. The XC90 also featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display for enhanced driver awareness. The standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system for superior audio quality. The XC90 included multiple USB ports and a WiFi hotspot, ensuring connectivity for all passengers.

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia came equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense-P suite, offering features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. While it lacked some advanced technologies, it provided a comprehensive set of safety features. However, its older platform resulted in a four-star rollover rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, featuring blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and the Pilot Assist system for semi-autonomous driving. It received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, underscoring its commitment to occupant protection.