2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a range of trim levels from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350, particularly in F Sport and Luxury trims, stood out with its distinctive Lexus design, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. The interior boasted a minimalist design, with most functions integrated into a large touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly. Despite some ergonomic issues, the NX maintained high-quality materials and a comfortable driving experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution from Volvo's past boxy designs, presenting a purposeful yet understated appearance. The front end was solid and assertive, complemented by the recognizable "Thor’s Hammer" headlights. The XC90's interior was elegant, featuring luxurious materials like Nappa leather and wood deco inlays. However, the minimalist design led to some storage frustrations, with limited cubby space for small items. The second row was comfortable, but accessing the third row was challenging. Despite these issues, the XC90 offered a serene driving experience, with a focus on comfort and practicality.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid producing 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivering 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The NX 350 F Sport provided a dynamic driving experience with adaptive suspension and multiple driving modes, while the Luxury trim offered a more relaxed ride. Despite its improvements, the NX's engine lacked the refinement of its German rivals, and it wasn't suited for off-road adventures due to limited ground clearance.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines with mild-hybrid technology, enhancing fuel efficiency and smoothness. The B5 engine produced 247 horsepower, while the B6 delivered 295 horsepower. The mild-hybrid system improved the XC90's auto stop-start technology, making it nearly imperceptible. The XC90 provided a reserved yet enjoyable driving experience, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The SUV handled well for its size, with minimal road and wind noise. However, it lacked customizable driving dynamics, focusing instead on simplicity and ease of use.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered increased interior space, though it felt cozy from the driver's seat. The SUV provided comfortable seating, especially in models with heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed ample space and practical storage, with a panoramic sunroof extending over the back seat. The NX boasted a 14% increase in cargo space, offering 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.9 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was peaceful and pleasant, but its minimalist design led to storage frustrations. The second row was comfortable, but accessing the third row was difficult. The XC90 offered 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in place, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with it folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. Despite its smaller size, the XC90 drove like a smaller car, providing a comfortable and practical experience.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant strides in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system. It featured large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. The standard 9.8-inch touchscreen could be upgraded to a 14-inch screen, both offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The NX included a 10-speaker sound system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems enhanced user experience, though the touchscreen collected fingerprints and lacked a tuning knob.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen running Google OS, integrating Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant. The system offered natural-language recognition and could be controlled via Google Home devices. However, many functions were buried within the touchscreen interface, leading to some frustration. Despite this, the XC90's tech was impressive, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.

The 2022 Lexus NX came equipped with the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring advanced driver assistance and collision avoidance technologies. Notable features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The NX also offered blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection and an adaptive front lighting system.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. The XC90 featured adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist technology, which maintained distance and speed in traffic. These safety features were standard, reinforcing Volvo's reputation for producing some of the safest vehicles on the road.