Volvo XC90 Vs. Lexus RX 350: A Luxury SUV Showdown
Your journey to luxury SUV greatness likely involves comparing the Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350. Both are stunning, eco-conscious luxury vehicles, but one can do much more. The Volvo XC90 is equipped with more exclusive and generous features, runs faster 0-60 times while delivering exceptional fuel efficiency, has spacious accommodations, and boasts top safety ratings. But that's only the beginning!
See how the Volvo XC90 exceeds its competition from Lexus below. Once you've seen the key details behind the Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 comparison, swing by Volvo Cars Midlothian to take a test drive and fully discover the new Volvo XC90.
Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 Interior Features & Benefits
When you compare the Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 interior features, you can find a lot more as both standard and available in the Volvo XC90.
Let's begin with the Volvo XC90. It has a standard four-zone automatic climate control system, an 11.2-inch central entertainment console, heated front seats with two-way power lumbar adjustment, a 10-speaker high-performance audio system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with Google built-in services and Apple CarPlay®, and a panoramic moonroof.
Lexus RX 350 drivers get standard features like a three-zone automatic climate control system, analog gauges with a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, and a 9.8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay®. A moonroof is optional, as is the wireless phone charger.
The Volvo XC90 can be equipped with massaging front seats, which are unavailable on the Lexus RX 350. Four-way front seat power lumbar support can be found in higher trims of either model. Only the Volvo XC90 offers available Nappa leather upholstery; the Lexus RX 350 has available semi-aniline leather.
Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 Safety Ratings & Features
The 2025 Volvo XC90 earned its place as an IIHS Top Safety Pick+1 recipient, thanks to its innovative body design and state-of-the-art sensor technology. Unfortunately, the Lexus RX 350 failed to receive any awards from the IIHS for 2025 due to its poor moderate overlap front test.2
Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 safety sees both models provide confidence with standard features. However, the Volvo XC90 provides advantages with dedicated safety-first engineering like an advanced Safety Cage structure and whiplash-reducing seats. It also offers many innovative active safety features.
Standard safety features on the 2025 Volvo XC90 include:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Volvo Pilot Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring With Cross-Traffic Alert
- Oncoming Collision Mitigation With Steering Assistance
- Lane Keeping Aid (Lane Departure Warning And Steering Assistance)
- Rear Parking Assist
- Rearview Camera
- Hill Descent Control
- Rain-Sensing Wipers
- Road Sign Info Display
Standard safety features of the Lexus RX 350 include:
- Radar Cruise Control And Lane Tracing
- Blind Spot Monitoring With Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Pre-Collision System With Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert With Steering Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Backup Camera
- Automatic High Beams
The Lexus RX 350 has a standard Parking Assist but lacks benefits like Hill Descent Control and innovations like the semi-autonomous driving capabilities that come with the Volvo XC90 SUV's standard Volvo Pilot Assist.
Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 Power & Performance
Which model offers the better drive: the Volvo XC90 or Lexus RX 350? The standard Volvo XC90 has less power than the Lexus RX 350, yet it gets up to highway speed faster.
In particular, the standard configuration, the Volvo XC90 B5 AWD, makes 247 horsepower from its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. AWD, as the "B5 AWD" name suggests, comes standard in the new Volvo XC90.
The Lexus RX 350, meanwhile, has a 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and FWD as standard. It launches from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds. The slightly less powerful Volvo XC90 B5 AWD will complete the 0-60 mph sprint in just 7.3 seconds. Adding AWD makes things more competitive, with the Lexus RX 350 AWD doing 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds, though it doesn't keep up with the available engine of the Volvo SUV: the Volvo XC90 B6 AWD boosts the mild-hybrid B5 AWD powertrain to 295 horsepower via a supercharger, resulting in a 6.4-second 0-60 mph time.
You may think the Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 acceleration comparison plays out like this due to curb weights, but the 2025 Volvo XC90 vs. 2025 Lexus RX 350 weight ratings are not too far off from one another. The Volvo XC90 actually tips the scales as the heavier model.
So, how does the Volvo XC90 B5 AWD outrun a lighter, slightly more powerful vehicle? Intelligent drivetrain engineering, a meticulous focus on aerodynamic efficiency, and well-optimized tires are just a few factors.
Compare Lexus RX vs. Volvo XC90 power levels, and the RX 350 makes you compromise if you want a base-level hybrid, delivering only 246 combined horsepower and a 7.4-second 0-60 mph time in Lexus RX 350h models. There is also the Lexus RX 450h+ with 304 combined horsepower and a 6.2-second 0-60 mph sprint. At the top, the Lexus RX 500h has 366 horsepower and a 5.9-second 0-60 mph time.
While it made an impressive charge, that's where the Lexus SUV's performance capabilities end; the Volvo XC90 takes back first place with the 455-horsepower T8 eAWD plug-in hybrid powertrain, accelerating with an impressive 5.0-second 0-60 mph sprint that leaves every Lexus RX model behind.
Lexus RX 350 vs. Volvo XC90 towing is another win for the Volvo XC90. The Lexus RX 350 has a rather low maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds,3 while the Volvo XC90 can tow up to 5,000 pounds.4
Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 Fuel Economy
Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 MPG ratings are just as important of a performance benchmark.
First up, the 2025 Volvo XC90 B5 AWD delivers an EPA-estimated 23 MPG5 in the city, while a 2025 Lexus RX 350 AWD delivers an EPA-estimated 22 MPG6 in the city. Similarly, the Volvo XC90 has more favorable MPG combined ratings – 26 MPG (Combined)5 as opposed to 25 MPG (Combined)6 in the Lexus RX 350 FWD – in spite of its standard AWD.
The Volvo XC90 B6 AWD has a more powerful horsepower output than the 2025 Lexus RX 350. It exceeds its 0-60 mph time by a large margin (6.4 seconds vs. 7.2 seconds) but this incredible acceleration advantage does mean the Lexus RX 350 AWD gains one MPG (Combined) on it.7, 8
The Lexus RX 350h models may seem to dominate by delivering an EPA-estimated 36 MPG (Combined),9 but they limit you to 246 combined horsepower. With 455 horsepower and a 5.0-second 0-60 mph time, the 2025 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid puts the Lexus RX 350 back into a distant second place by delivering an EPA-estimated 58 MPGe.10
Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 Size, Dimensions & Cargo Space
Compare the 2025 Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 dimensions, and you'll notice that the Lexus RX 350 measures 192.5 inches long, 75.6 inches wide (without mirrors), and 67.3 inches tall. The Volvo XC90 is 195 inches long, 79.1 inches wide (without mirrors), and 69.9 inches tall.
The 2025 Volvo XC90 offers a maximum cargo volume of 85.7 cubic feet, while the 2025 Lexus RX 350 tops out at 46.2 cubic feet in all of its model variants.
Inside, the Volvo XC90 comes with seven seats across three rows. While its previous-generation design offered an available three-row variant with seven seats, the Lexus RX series does not currently offer a three-row layout and limits your SUV accommodations to five seats.
Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 headroom is another easy win. With its standard moonroof, the Volvo XC90 has 38.9 inches of front, 38.5 inches of second-row, and 36.3 inches of third-row headroom; the Lexus RX 350 (with a moonroof) offers 38.1 inches of front and 38.5 inches of second-row headroom.
Legroom is a different matter, as the Volvo XC90 is a three-row vehicle, while the Lexus RX 350 is limited to two rows.
The Lexus RX 350 does pull ahead by a small margin, offering 41.1 inches of front legroom and 37.4 inches of second-row legroom. The Volvo SUV manages to stay competitive, with 40.9 inches of front, 37 inches of second-row, and 31.9 inches of third-row legroom. Considering the difference is less than an inch between the two rows the Lexus RX has, and you're getting a third row for a growing family or road trip, the Volvo XC90 instantly pulls ahead on overall legroom.
Also, consider that the Volvo XC90 has more cargo room and passenger space while being only 2.5 inches longer than the Lexus RX 350.
Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 Warranty Coverage
Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 new-car warranties are equal.11 Each includes a four-year/50,000-mile (whichever comes first) basic new-car warranty.11
Both models also offer a four-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance plan.12, 13 However, the Volvo XC90 has a 12-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty,11 while the Lexus RX 350 offers six years of corrosion warranty coverage.11
The Volvo XC90 also boasts a four-year/50,000-mile (whichever comes first) powertrain warranty11 and many options to extend your coverage.
2025 Volvo XC90 Core | vs. | 2025 Lexus RX 350 |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L | Engine displacement | 2.4L |
| Turbo 4-cyl | Engine configuration | Turbo 4-cyl |
| All-wheel drive | Standard Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| 8-speed shiftable automatic | Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| 7.3 Seconds | 0-60 MPH (Base Configuration) | 7.6 Seconds |
| 5,000 lbs4 | Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs3 |
| 85.7 cu-ft | Maximum Cargo Capacity | 46.2 cu-ft |
| Standard Safety Features |
|
| Standard Technology Features |
|
| Standard Comfort and Convenience |
|
| New Volvo XC90 For Sale | Used Lexus RX-350 For Sale |
Discover the 2025 Volvo XC90 at Volvo Cars Midlothian
From standard features to cargo room, the Volvo XC90 dominates the competition, and what we've explored here is just a taste of its greatness. If you're ready to experience all the intricate details and impressive advantages of a Volvo XC90 or other Volvo SUV, swing by our dealership today, and our Volvo cars sales team will introduce you to your perfect vehicle. Our 2025 Volvo XC90 offers are sure to elevate your experience while staying well within your budget.
Choose the model of your dreams, and we'll help you apply for financing online or at our dealership. Bring this midsize SUV home with crystal-clear terms, fees, and conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is bigger: Lexus RX 350 or Volvo XC90?
The Volvo XC90 is slightly larger than the Lexus RX 350 but provides much more passenger and cargo room. Specifically, the Volvo XC90 is 2.5 inches longer, 3.5 inches wider (without mirrors), and 2.6 inches taller than a Lexus RX 350 but has an extra row of seats and 39.5 cubic feet of extra cargo volume behind the first-row seats.
Which is safer: Lexus RX 350 or Volvo XC90?
The Volvo XC90 is a storied winner of the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Award, a distinction that it once again earned in 2025, thanks to its innovative array of sensors and body that prioritizes the safety of its passengers in a crash.1 The Lexus RX, meanwhile, earned no awards from the IIHS in 2025 due to its less-than-stellar performance on frontal overlap tests.2
Which is more luxurious: Lexus RX 350 or Volvo XC90?
Both the Volvo XC90 and Lexus RX 350 are luxurious SUVs, but the Volvo XC90 provides drivers with a more powerful, exclusive suite of luxury trimmings as standard. For example, a Volvo XC90 offers standard four-zone auto climate control and available massaging front seats, while the Lexus RX 350 has a standard three-zone auto climate control system and does not offer a front-seat massage feature.
Discover How Our Other Volvo Models Compare:
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1Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/volvo/xc90-4-door-suv/2025
2Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/lexus/rx-4-door-suv/2025
3Never tow beyond a vehicle's published towing capacities. Rating based on testing requirements prescribed in SAE J2807. Rating referenced in Owner's Manual may differ depending on testing standard used. Installation of accessories located near the rear bumper may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. Follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual.
4When properly equipped.
5EPA estimated range is 23 MPG city/30 MPG highway/26 MPG combined (B5 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/
6EPA-estimated 22 city/ 29 hwy/ 25 comb MPG rating for 2025 Lexus RX 350. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
7EPA estimated range is 20 MPG city/26 MPG highway/23 MPG combined (B6 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/
8EPA-estimated 21 city/ 28 hwy/ 24 comb MPG rating for 2025 Lexus RX 350 AWD. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
9EPA-estimated 37 city/ 34 hwy/ 26 comb MPG rating for 2025 Lexus RX 350h. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
10Estimated range according to the EPA driving cycles. The actual range achieved under real conditions varies depending on driving behavior, driving conditions, how you maintain your vehicle, battery and other external factors. Visit fueleconomy.gov for further information.
11Warranties listed on this webpage shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official manufacturer website. Contact our dealership for complete details.
12New Volvo vehicles include complimentary Volvo Roadside Assistance for 4 years. Certified By Volvo vehicles include complimentary Volvo Roadside Assistance for 5 years.
13Roadside Assistance services provided by third-party providers for vehicles with an eligible service plan, subject to limitations and restrictions. Roadside Assistance is not a warranty; refer to the vehicle's Owner's Handbook for warranty details. Excludes costs for repairs, parts, labor, property loss, and expenses from accidents, abuse, racing, vandalism, and certain other conditions. Contact our dealership for details.
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