2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented reputation while moving towards luxury. After its acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, Volvo developed new platforms, leading to the current XC90, which launched in 2016. The XC90's design featured a sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches, giving it an athletic stance. Its interior was described as "Scandinavian Modern," with natural wood and metal trim, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma, with a rugged trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added visual weight. The rear design echoed the front grille, resulting in a somewhat disjointed appearance compared to competitors. Inside, the Highlander featured an asymmetrical dash with metallic accents and a high-mounted infotainment screen. The Bronze Edition introduced light grey fabric upholstery with a triangle motif, surrounded by Softex synthetic leather, which some found less convincing than genuine leather.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining gasoline and electric power for 455 hp. The T5 was available in FWD or AWD, while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T8 offering up to 66 MPGe and an EV range of 36 miles. The XC90 handled well for its size, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT. It offered FWD as standard, with AWD available via an electric motor on the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds. Its ride quality was soft, with a suspension that smoothed out road imperfections. The cabin remained quiet on highways, though the engine's drone was noticeable under heavy acceleration. Braking was smooth, with regenerative braking seamlessly transitioning to physical brakes.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row. Cargo space ranged from 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row to 85.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The XC90 offered ample storage and a comfortable, airy cabin, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof. It could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, suitable for light recreational towing.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were comfortable, with ample storage options. The second row was spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench for eight-passenger capacity. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, though it was occasionally glitchy. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and optional head-up display. The standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system. USB ports and a WiFi hotspot were included, along with the Volvo Care app for remote functions.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on higher trims. The system was responsive, with physical buttons for ease of use. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard, with wireless charging on XLE trims and above. Navigation and a JBL audio system were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for safety, featuring blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star NHTSA rating.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid also received top safety ratings, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. However, some systems required fine-tuning, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.