2023 Toyota 4Runner vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, particularly the 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE), was a nod to the past with its retro body stripes and heritage grille design. It featured bronze 17-inch wheels and badges, giving it a distinctive look that resonated with a Southern California vibe. The interior, while filled with plastic, felt solid and of quality, with controls that were easy to use even with gloves on. The 4Runner's design was reminiscent of truck-based SUVs from the past, offering an enduring appeal that was both rugged and nostalgic.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution from Volvo's earlier, boxy designs. The XC90's exterior was purposeful yet understated, with a stout front end and a grille that was assertive without being flashy. Its "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch, and the overall shape, while still somewhat rectilinear, was far from the toaster-like designs of the past. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with its two-tone leather steering wheel, metal speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist design was complemented by wood deco inlays, creating a serene and sophisticated cabin environment.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It came with a five-speed automatic transmission, with options for rear-wheel drive or a four-wheel-drive system. The 4Runner had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and an EPA fuel economy rating of 17 mpg in combined driving. Off-road capabilities were a highlight, with features like Hill-Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, and Active Traction Control. However, on-road performance was less impressive, with leisurely acceleration, heavy steering, and a brake pedal that lacked finesse.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines with mild-hybrid technology, offering improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The B5 engine produced 247 horsepower, while the B6 engine, which was in our test vehicle, delivered 295 horsepower. The XC90's eight-speed automatic transmission provided seamless shifts, and the vehicle handled corners with surprising agility for its size. The mild-hybrid system enhanced the driving experience by making the auto stop-start technology almost imperceptible. Despite lacking extensive off-road features, the XC90 performed admirably in snowy conditions, showcasing its capability in adverse weather.

The Toyota 4Runner's interior was practical, with a power-down rear window and numerous storage locations, though many lacked rubber liners. The second-row seating was spacious and comfortable, but the optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third row, the 4Runner offered 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 89.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The Volvo XC90's interior was elegant but had limited cubby space for small items. The second row was comfortable, but accessing the third row was challenging. With the third row in use, the XC90 provided 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. While smaller than some competitors, the XC90's design made it feel more compact and maneuverable.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The system was user-friendly, with large knobs and buttons, and offered options for a navigation system and JBL premium sound. Voice recognition performed well, though it had limitations with certain commands.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 boasted a 9-inch touchscreen running Google OS, integrating Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant. The system's natural-language recognition was a standout feature, allowing for seamless interaction. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for many functions could be frustrating, as it lacked physical buttons for some controls. Despite this, the tech suite was advanced and intuitive.

The Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, its crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating from the IIHS for driver protection in small overlap frontal impacts.

The Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It featured advanced driver safety tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, which worked seamlessly to enhance driver confidence and safety.