Volvo XC90 Vs. Lexus RX 350

Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350


Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 at a Glance


  • The Volvo XC90 offers three rows of seating, creating space for up to seven people, while the Lexus RX 350 accommodates only five occupants in its two-row configuration
  • The Volvo SUV comes with more standard features, such as a panoramic roof and wireless charging, whereas you have to upgrade trims in the Lexus SUV to obtain these amenities
  • Both models have similar exterior dimensions, but the Volvo XC90 holds nearly double the maximum cargo volume, with 85.7 cubic feet available
  • The Lexus RX 350 has an overwhelming number of trim options, while the Volvo XC90 is easy to navigate with three feature-rich choices

The Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 matchup is a contest between two premium SUVs. Both vehicles have a lot to give drivers, but which one is the better choice for you and your loved ones? We at Principle Volvo Cars San Antonio are confident that once you see the impeccable features and specs of the three-row Volvo SUV, you will have an easy decision ahead of you. Let's delve deeper into the 2025 Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 comparison, examining their respective cabin amenities, performance metrics, dimensions, trim levels, and more.

Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350: Comfort & Value

Both SUVs are known for offering refined comfort amenities and top-end technologies. However, the Volvo XC90 delivers a more well-rounded package by comparison.

Standard highlights of the new 2025 Volvo XC90 include a panoramic roof, four-zone climate control featuring an air purifier and remote cabin pre-cleaning, quilted Nordico upholstery, auto-dim rearview mirrors, and heated front seats with power two-way lumbar support.

Conversely, the new 2025 Lexus RX 350 has multi-zone climate control with an air filter and NuLuxe upholstery. While this SUV also boasts heated front seats as standard, power lumbar support is only offered in top trims, as is its panorama glass roof. One ultra-luxe amenity the Volvo XC90 has that the RX 350 fails to provide is a crystal gear selector knob by Orrefors®.

Furthermore, the Volvo XC90 comes standard with an 11.2-inch center display in every trim. The Lexus RX 350, by comparison, is equipped with a 9.8-inch touchscreen as standard. Both SUVs feature a 12.3-inch driver display.

Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350: Performance

Compare the 2025 Lexus RX 350 and Volvo XC90 powertrains, and you will see why the Volvo brand's innovations are celebrated year after year. The B5 and the B6 mild-hybrid engines of the Volvo XC90 both work with all-wheel drive for supreme traction and confidence. The B6 AWD configuration adds a supercharger to the engine found in the B5 AWD variant, raising the horsepower output from 247 to a whopping 295 ponies.

The most powerful choice, however, is the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid with the T8 AWD powertrain. It pairs a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a battery-and-motor system that generates 455 horsepower. As you whip by other drivers, they will wonder how your three-row family vehicle is so powerful.

As we examine the Volvo XC90 and Lexus RX 350 specs, we find that the Lexus vehicle has two powertrain options, and both are less compelling than those of the Volvo XC90. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is fully gasoline-powered and makes 275 horsepower. Meanwhile, the 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid option renders 246 combined horsepower, falling just short of the entry-level Volvo XC90. Not even the Lexus RX 350 F SPORT models can achieve the same level of Volvo XC90 prowess when equipped with the B6 powertrain.

In the Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 battle, the Volvo SUV dominates the performance category. It even boasts faster 0-60 mph numbers. It reaches 60 mph in as little as 6.4 seconds with the B6 powertrain or a swift five seconds flat with the PHEV variant. The RX 350, on the other hand, can get to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds at its quickest.

Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350: Dimensions

Our next stop on the 2025 Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 tour is dimensions. As you can see in the chart below, the Volvo XC90 is taller, wider, and longer than the Lexus RX 350. The size difference makes sense, as the RX 350 only seats five people, whereas the Volvo XC90 seats six or seven. Although both SUVs have ample space, the Volvo XC90 is a clear winner in terms of passenger seating and transport.

How do their exterior measurements influence the cabin of each SUV? While the variances amount to mere inches, that translates to significantly more cargo room for the Volvo XC90. You have up to 85.7 cubic feet of storage space behind the first row of the Volvo SUV. The Lexus vehicle, on the other hand, has a maximum cargo volume of just 46.2 cubic feet.

The legroom numbers are competitive, but the Volvo XC90 arguably takes the lead by including the extra row of seating. The more economical use of space in the new Volvo XC90 offers more bang for your buck without forcing people into a cramped cabin. For additional information about how the Volvo XC90 stacks up against other luxury SUVs, check out our Volvo XC90 vs. Acura MDX comparison.

Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350: Pricing

The base model of the Volvo XC90 is a bit more expensive than that of the Lexus RX 350. However, this is understandable, as it comes with a larger seating capacity and more upscale amenities. When you consider the upgrades, you are likely to find that the price difference is minute.

As we compare the Lexus RX 350 and Volvo XC90, we notice that the former has a much more convoluted list of trims:

  • 2025 Lexus RX 350 FWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350 AWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350h AWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350 Premium FWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350 Premium AWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350h Premium AWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350 Premium+ FWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350 Premium+ AWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350h Premium+ AWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350 Luxury FWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350 Luxury AWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350h Luxury AWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350 F SPORT Design FWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350 F SPORT Design AWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350h F SPORT Design AWD
  • 2025 Lexus RX 350 F SPORT Handling AWD

This dizzying array of options includes performance changes and varying feature sets. High-end trims often don't even include the most impressive amenities as standard equipment, requiring further research into add-on packages to unlock your ideal model. The Volvo XC90 is built in three simple-to-understand and robust trims with the option to equip either the B5 or B6 powertrain:

  • 2025 Volvo XC90 Core
  • 2025 Volvo XC90 Plus
  • 2025 Volvo XC90 Ultra

You don't need to work too hard to get the Volvo XC90 model you want with the right seating capacity, features you love, and safety technologies that make you and your passengers feel secure.

If our Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 comparison has convinced you that the Volvo SUV is the way to go, be sure to consider our Volvo XC90 lease deals. Leasing lets you drive a new car for an attractive monthly payment.


Volvo XC90

2025 Volvo XC90 B6 AWD Models

Engine: 2.0L turbo & supercharged 4-cyl mild hybrid
Horsepower: 295
Torque: 310 lb-ft
0-60 Time: 6.4 s
Max. Seating Capacity: 7
Length: 195 in
Width (w/o Mirrors): 79.1 in
Height: 69.9 in
Max. Cargo Space: 85.7 cu ft
Max. Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs1
Interior Benefits:
  • Panoramic roof
  • Four-zone climate control
  • Heated front seats
  • High-performance audio system
  • Smartphone connectivity
  • Available Nappa leather upholstery
Shop Model: Volvo XC90 For Sale
Lexus RX 350

2025 Lexus RX 350h Models

Engine: 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid
Horsepower: 246
Torque: 233 lb-ft
0-60 Time: 7.4 s
Max. Seating Capacity: 5
Length: 192.5 in
Width (w/o Mirrors): 75.6 in
Height: 67.3 in
Max. Cargo Space: 46.2 cu ft
Max. Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs2
Interior Benefits:
  • Available moonroof
  • Multi-zone climate control
  • Heated front seats
  • Premium sound system
  • Smartphone connectivity
  • Available semi-aniline leather upholstery

 

Pros of the Volvo XC90

  • Ample towing capacity
  • Array of upscale amenities is standard
  • Three spacious rows of seating
  • Large cargo area

Cons of the Volvo XC90

  • Third row may be cramped for taller passengers
  • Lack of physical buttons with infotainment system
 

What Reddit Users Say About the Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350

You don't have to take our word for it. Drivers have taken to Reddit to attest to the quality of the Volvo XC90 with examples of how they and their families benefit from the premium three-row model. If you want to hear about the Volvo XC90 vs. Lexus RX 350 comparison from people like you, check out some of the comments below!

cuteman

"I was looking at the RX350 also but it's much smaller, infotainment was significantly worse, lower power, etc."

Read More

pugspaw1

"Gauging the actual product itself- the Volvo is better- better creature comfort, the ride is better, etc"

Read More

Niso81

"They are both solid vehicles with some of the best dependability in their class. it comes down to personal preferences."

Read More

Purchase a Volvo XC90 Today

We consider the 2025 Volvo XC90 the victor of the Lexus RX 350 vs. Volvo XC90 battle. It offers better value, a stronger lineup, and a more refined style. Our dealership has the new Volvo XC90 for sale alongside a plethora of other new and used vehicles. Reach out today about a test drive at Principle Volvo Cars San Antonio.

Bryan Barton

Expert Opinion

Rivalries are healthy. The Volvo XC90 and Lexus RX 350 have been direct competitors for a while, but that isn't entirely the story anymore: The Lexus RX 350 was redesigned, and for some reason, Lexus designers chose to discontinue its three-row configuration. Now, it's a competitor mainly in terms of luxury spirit, but the Volvo XC90 outdoes it there, too, and once again outclasses it in terms of technology. This is a purely subjective, but many local drivers and I vastly prefer the sleek and minimalist Volvo XC90 redesign over the edgy and over-styled Lexus RX 350.

Bryan Barton, General Manager

FAQ

Which is bigger: the Volvo XC90 or the Lexus RX 350?

The Volvo XC90 is slightly longer, taller, and wider than the Lexus RX 350. This sizing translates into a seating capacity of up to seven people, unlike the five seats in the Lexus SUV. Enjoy the 195-inch length, 79.1-inch width, and 69.9-inch height of the Volvo XC90, while the Lexus RX 350 is a bit smaller in each category.

How do the Volvo XC90 safety features compare to those of the Lexus RX 350?

Volvo Cars is a champion of safety and security. The Volvo XC90 and the Lexus RX 350 have an enhanced suite of safety features, but the Volvo SUV brings more. For example, the Volvo XC90 offers Park Assist for the front, rear, and sides and a 360-Degree Camera; the RX 350 only has Intuitive Parking Assist for the front and rear and no option for a 360-Degree Camera.

Which has more cargo space: the Lexus RX 350 vs. Volvo XC90?

The Volvo XC90 has more cargo space than the Lexus RX 350. The Lexus model has 29.6 cubic feet behind its second row and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats down. While the Volvo XC90 has less cargo room with all seats up due to the third row, it boasts a larger 85.7 cubic feet of cargo volume when you fold the second and third rows.

Contact Us Today

* Indicates a required field

Discover More Volvo Competitive Comparisons In San Antonio, TX:


1When properly equipped.

2Never 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.