2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Volvo XC60

Volvo's 2022 XC60 featured subtle styling updates, including a new front fascia with "air blades" for a sportier look and a redesigned rear bumper that concealed the tailpipes. The front grille was reworked to house sensors behind a heated Volvo logo, ensuring functionality in cold weather. Built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, the XC60 shared its foundation with other Volvo models. Inside, the XC60 retained its clean design with a new digital instrument cluster, a portrait-oriented touchscreen, and minimal clutter. The B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, though the interior felt subdued compared to other Volvos.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid drew styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia for a rugged appearance. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added visual weight, making it appear bloated. The rear echoed the grille's shape, resulting in a disjointed design compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash included a metallic styling element and a high-mounted infotainment touchscreen. The Bronze Edition featured light grey fabric upholstery with a triangle motif, which seemed impractical for families due to its tendency to attract dirt. Other trims offered more conventional materials, with genuine leather available only on higher trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 versions. Both combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system, adding 13 horsepower in bursts. The B6 also included an electric supercharger. The B5 produced 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 offered 295 hp and 310 lb-ft. Both used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the B5 offering FWD or AWD and the B6 exclusively AWD. The B5 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and the B6 in 5.9 seconds. The XC60 emphasized luxury with a quiet cabin and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge delivered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds, while the Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard FWD. AWD was available via an electric motor for the rear axle. It reached 60 mph in just over 8 seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick initial response, with the gasoline engine taking over smoothly. The CVT's lack of gear shifts resulted in a droning engine sound under heavy acceleration. Braking was traditional, with regenerative braking recharging the hybrid batteries. The Highlander Hybrid offered a soft ride, with a suspension that smoothed road bumps while maintaining adequate cornering confidence. The cabin remained quiet on highways, contributing to its comfort-focused design.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Cargo space was 21.6 cubic feet with rear seats up and 49.8 cubic feet folded for mild-hybrid models, slightly less for plug-in hybrids. The XC60 offered a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage options included a deep tray under the infotainment screen and a large center armrest bin. The spacious second-row seats accommodated tall passengers, with sliding and reclining options. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with seats folded, and 84.3 cubic feet at maximum capacity.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul with a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. Android-specific features included Google Assistant and Google Maps, with over-the-air updates. The system was compatible with iPhones, though without Google profile syncing. The digital cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard, with wireless charging on XLE trims and above. Navigation and JBL audio were standard on higher trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2021 model received top ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. New features included Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. Pilot Assist combined adaptive cruise control and lane centering.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The Platinum trim offered a surround-view camera and adaptive headlights. The systems generally worked well but needed fine-tuning for smoother operation.