It's certainly no secret that midsize luxury crossover SUVs have exploded in popularity throughout the last decade. Buyers appreciate their tremendous versatility and sharp styling paired with a premium interior that's packed with advanced technology. The award-winning Volvo XC60 sets the benchmark that all midsize luxury SUVs strive to emulate. To help illustrate why the XC60 remains the best choice in the segment, Volvo Cars Cincinnati has assembled this in-depth comparison with one of its top competitors - the Lexus RX. Let's take a closer look.
Volvo XC60 vs Lexus RX
| 2023 Volvo XC60 B5 FWD Core | VS | 2023 Lexus RX 350 FWD Base |
| $44,745 ✓ | MSRP | $48,550 |
| 247 HP / 258 lb-ft TQ | Horsepower/Torque | 275 HP / 317 lb-ft TQ |
| 6.6 seconds ✓ | 0/60 Time | 7.6 seconds |
| Standard ✓ | Mild Hybrid System | Not Available |
| Double Wishbone ✓ | Front Suspension | Strut |
| 37.4 feet ✓ | Turning Circle | 38.8 feet |
| 63.3 cubic feet ✓ | Max Cargo Capacity | 46.2 cubic feet |
| Standard ✓ | Panoramic Roof | Optional |
| Standard ✓ | Roof Rails | Optional |
| 3 Years / 36,000 Miles ✓ | Complimentary Routine Maintenance | 1 Year / 10,000 Miles |
For this comparison, we're looking at the base models of these two luxury SUVs. Both have turbocharged four-cylinder engines, seating for five, and even have identical towing capacities. But the Volvo has a noticeable price advantage, and it's not really clear what makes the Lexus more expensive. The RX 350 does put out more power but takes a full second longer to get to 60mph. This is due largely to the Volvo's mild hybrid system, which gives a torque boost at low engine speeds and makes for smoother and quicker acceleration. The XC60 also uses a double wishbone front suspension setup, which connects up to the vehicle at a greater number of points than the strut system in the RX, giving you more control. This is part of the reason why you see a tighter turning circle on the Volvo. Simply put, the Volvo offers better performance and more engaging driving dynamics.
Interior space is an important thing to have in a compact SUV, and when it comes to making the most of that space, the RX doesn't even come close to the XC60. The Volvo will also feel roomier, thanks to a standard panoramic roof. That same feature is offered on the RX as well, but only as an option and only with a much higher trim level. Lastly, while Lexus gives you one year of complimentary routine maintenance, that is 2 years fewer than the three years of complimentary maintenance you get with a Volvo.
Car and Driver Editors' Choice Award - Volvo XC60
The 2022 Volvo XC60 won the Car and Driver Editors' Choice award for Best Compact Luxury SUV. Car and Driver praised the handsome interior and exterior styling, impressive fuel economy, and cutting-edge safety technology saying the Volvo XC60 "distills much of the elegance and luxury of the larger XC90 SUV into a smaller package.."
Winner - Volvo XC60
Now that we've counted the results, the obvious winner of this competitive comparison is the Volvo XC60. Lexus cannot compete with the exceptional value, luxurious interior amenities, efficiency, safety, and versatility found on every XC60. Ready to experience the XC60 for yourself? Our team at Volvo Cars Cincinnati East is standing by to help you choose the right model for your lifestyle.
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