2021 Volvo XC40 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Volvo XC40 showcased a traditional SUV design with a tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, aligning with Volvo's signature style elements like the “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and oval grille. Gasoline models offered a retro touch with a contrasting white roof. The XC40 Recharge distinguished itself with a blanked-off grille, unique badging, and model-specific wheels, featuring a gloss black roof and Sage Green Metallic color. Its minimalist interior boasted high-quality materials, including Nappa leather and Nubuck textile, with a coherent design that integrated a portrait-oriented touchscreen and metal trim.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially appeared polarizing with its blunt nose and floating roof design, but over time, its look became more familiar. The SUV's styling included swollen haunches and cartoonishly-flared panels, especially with 20-inch wheels. Available in trims like LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum, the Highlander Hybrid offered a hybrid powertrain option. The interior featured a two-tone look with leather upholstery in higher trims, but some elements, like the instrument-panel shroud, felt cheap. The dashboard housed an asymmetrical infotainment system, which could suffer from reflections in bright light.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a three-tiered powertrain lineup. The base T4 had a 2.0-liter turbo engine with 187 hp, while the T5 AWD variant delivered 248 hp. The electric Recharge model boasted 402 hp with a 78-kWh battery, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. The XC40 emphasized luxury and comfort, with excellent ride quality and one-pedal driving capability. It also had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 243 hp with an EPA rating of 36 mpg combined. The hybrid used an "E-CVT" for smooth transitions. While efficient, the Highlander Hybrid lacked driving excitement, with adequate power but a strained engine sound during acceleration. The steering felt lifeless, and the ride was prone to body movement. However, it excelled in electric motor torque and freeway comfort.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered clever storage solutions despite limited space. It had less legroom and cargo space compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y. Features included a removable trash bin, large door bins, and a well-designed storage cubby. However, second-row occupants lacked phone-charging options.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided roomy accommodations for front passengers, with power-adjustable seats and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt narrow. The third-row seat was uncomfortable with limited legroom. Cargo space was generous, with 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 84.3 cubic feet maximum. However, storage solutions were less accommodating than previous models.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS with Google apps integration, offering a 9-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with OTA update capability. The Recharge lacked a start button, using a key fob for activation.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio, and navigation. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large controls and a responsive voice recognition system. Features like Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror enhanced convenience.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received top safety ratings, with a comprehensive list of standard features like lane-keep assist and blind-spot monitoring. The Recharge model included advanced sensors for future driver aids.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, adding intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the LE trim. The Highlander earned a five-star NHTSA rating and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS.