2025 Volvo XC60 Vs. Lexus RX 350: Luxury SUV Showdown
Knowing what an investment a new luxury SUV is, we intend to help you find the right one for you and yours by putting the Volvo XC60 vs. Lexus RX 350 head to head in several key categories. These midsize five-seaters offer ample power, smooth handling, and beautifully refined interiors, but which gives you more? That is what we answer below. Once you look at the details, we encourage you to reach out to our Volvo Cars of Cary team to ask any follow-up questions or take a test drive of the winner in our books: the Volvo XC60.
2025 Volvo XC60 vs. 2025 Lexus RX 350 Performance & Specs
The Lexus RX 350 comes with two engine options. The standard powertrain is the 275-horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that achieves an EPA-estimated 21/28 MPG (City/Highway)1 with available AWD; fuel economy is an EPA-estimated 22/29 MPG (City/Highway) with standard FWD. You can also opt for the 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain in the RX 350h, which delivers 246 net horsepower and an EPA-estimated 37/34 MPG (City/Highway).1
As impressive as these stats are, the Volvo XC60 wins out. Its standard 247-horsepower B5 powertrain combines a turbocharged engine with mild-hybrid technology to earn an EPA-estimated 23/30 MPG (City/Highway).2 The Volvo XC60 comes standard with AWD, whereas the RX 350 requires you to upgrade for it.
A plug-in hybrid variant is also offered, the Volvo XC60 PHEV. Utilizing the T8 powertrain found in several other Volvo vehicles, this plug-in hybrid model makes an incredible 455 horsepower as well as an EPA-estimated 63 MPGe (Combined).3 It also offers an EPA-estimated 35-mile electric driving range,3 which is not possible in the RX 350 hybrid.
Furthermore, in terms of 2025 Volvo XC60 vs. Lexus RX 350 dimensions, the Volvo SUV comes out ahead. These models have nearly the same wheelbase, and while the RX 350 is longer, it has significantly less total cargo space than the Volvo XC60. Get a comprehensive overview of these SUVs' specs below.
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 |  |  |  | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Volvo XC60 | 2025 Lexus RX 350 | 2025 Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid | 2025 Lexus RX 350h | |
| Starting MSRP | $47,0504 | $49,1255 | $58,0504 | $51,4255 |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo 4-cyl | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl | 2.0L turbo 4-cyl PHEV | 2.5L 4-cyl hybrid |
| Horsepower | 247 | 275 | 455 | 246 |
| Torque | 266 lb-ft | 317 lb-ft | 523 lb-ft | 233 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD / AWD | AWD | AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 6.5 sec | 7.2 - 7.6 sec | 4.5 sec | 7.4 sec |
| Max EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 23 / 30 / 262 | 22 / 29 / 251 | 28 MPG / 28 MPG / 63 MPGe3 | 37 / 34 / 361 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18.8 gal | 17.8 gal | 18.8 gal | 17.2 gal |
| Max Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs6 | 3,500 lbs7 | 3,500 lbs6 | 3,500 lbs7 |
| Wheelbase | 112.8 in | 112.2 in | 112.8 in | 112.2 in |
| Length | 185.4 in | 192.5 in | 185.4 in | 192.5 in |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Max Cargo Room | 63.3 cu ft | 46.2 cu ft | 63.3 cu ft | 46.2 cu ft |
Volvo XC60 vs. Lexus RX 350 Towing Capacity
Regarding towing capacity between the Volvo XC60 vs. Lexus RX 350, you can tow up to 3,500 pounds in either one when properly equipped, making this category a tie. Still, it's reassuring to know that, whether you choose the Lexus RX 350 or the new Volvo XC60 for sale, you will be able to bring an ATV along for a weekend adventure or tow a small utility trailer for your home projects.
Volvo XC60 vs. Lexus RX 350 Safety
Safety is a priority for Volvo Cars, and the Volvo XC60 is no exception. The 2025 Volvo XC60 earns the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ title,8 the highest distinction available. Meanwhile, the 2025 Lexus RX has yet to be rated.8 The 2025 Volvo XC60 also has a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA,9 as does the 2025 Lexus RX 350.9 For safety features, these two SUVs have similar offerings.
Interior Volvo XC60 vs. Lexus RX 350 Comparison
While we've given you a peek at Volvo XC60 vs. Lexus RX 350 performance and safety, let's head inside to see what you can expect from the cabins. The Volvo model practices its Scandinavian design ethos of beautiful simplicity and elegant practicality throughout all trims, but which tier you pick will influence some of the finer details.
Choose the entry-level 2025 Volvo XC60 Core trim to enjoy a panoramic roof, a 9-inch center display, a 12.3-inch driver display, and ergonomically designed front seats with heating. The two-zone climate control system keeps you and your passengers comfortable, as well as the air quality system and humidity sensor.
The next trim up is Plus. It adds high-level illumination, an air purifier, and remote cabin pre-cleaning. You will also enjoy technological upgrades, like a 360-Degree Camera, Adaptive Cruise Control, Park Assist Front, Rear, and Sides, and remote key.
The Ultra trim makes sliding into that driver's seat even nicer, as it has built-in ventilation and power side bolsters. The front passenger's seat gains memory settings to match the driver's seat. Plus, Nappa leather upholstery is standard, an upgrade from the previous trims' leatherette. A four-zone climate control system and a crystal gear selector knob add to its high-end appeal. Arguably best of all, this trim comes with a Head-Up Display and a premium Harman Kardon® sound system with an air-ventilated subwoofer.
Comparatively, the 2025 Lexus RX 350 offers an overwhelming number of trims, which can, in some ways, make it harder to get all the features you want unless you pay to go up several rungs on the trim ladder.
Like the Volvo XC60, the RX 350 has standard heated front seats. However, it doesn't automatically have memory settings for the driver's seat like the Volvo SUV. Furthermore, its moonroof is optional in entry-level trims, and its multi-zone climate control system only comes standard with an air filter.
Between the 2025 Volvo XC60 vs. Lexus RX 350, we favor the Volvo XC60, especially since it impresses more with its standard comforts and conveniences. However, to dive deeper into their differences or to compare other models, like the Volvo XC60 PHEV vs. BMW X3 PHEV, call our team today or stop by our Volvo dealership.
Test-Drive the New Volvo XC60 at Volvo Cars of Cary
We hope you've enjoyed this review of the Volvo XC60 vs. Lexus RX 350. If you've been convinced that the Volvo XC60 or Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid is right for you, or if you wish to learn more, reach out. Our team will transparently answer your questions and tell you – or show you up close and personal – what makes the Volvo XC60 so special. Don't forget we frequently run Volvo XC60 lease specials and finance deals, too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more fuel-efficient, the 2025 Volvo XC60 or the Lexus RX 350?
The 2025 Volvo XC60 is more fuel-efficient than the Lexus RX 350. The Volvo SUV earns up to an EPA-estimated 23/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),2 while the Lexus SUV renders a maximum EPA-estimated 22/29/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1 The Volvo XC60 achieves this MPG with AWD, too, whereas the Lexus RX 350 earns its maximum fuel rating with FWD.
Does the new Volvo XC60 have a more powerful engine than the Lexus RX 350?
The standard engine in the Lexus RX 350 offers 28 extra horsepower than the standard engine in the Volvo XC60. However, this doesn't mean much, as both the Volvo and Lexus models have the same maximum towing capacity. Plus, the Volvo XC60 can go 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds vs. the Lexus RX 350, which can take up to 7.6 seconds.
Which is the safer vehicle: the Volvo XC60 or the Lexus RX 350?
Currently, the 2025 Volvo XC60 and 2025 Lexus RX 350 both earn five stars from the NHTSA.9 The Volvo vehicle is also an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2025,8 whereas the RX 350 has yet to be rated.8 If you want to compare the Volvo XC60 vs. Lexus RX 350 safety features, our team is happy to chat.
Compare Our Other Volvo Models
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| Volvo XC40 Recharge vs. Hyundai IONIQ 5 | 2025 vs 2024 Volvo XC40 |
1EPA-estimated MPG ratings. 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.
2EPA estimated range is 23 MPG city/30 MPG highway/26 MPG combined. 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.
3Estimated 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.
4Prices shown are Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), Base Price or Starting At price and excludes destination fees, taxes, title, license, and registration and/or electronic filing fees, dealer fees.
5Starting MSRP includes the Delivery, Processing and Handling fee (DPH), which is subject to change at any time. Excludes manufacturer and dealer options, taxes, title and license, and dealer fees and charges. Dealer price will vary.
6When properly equipped.
7Never 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.
8Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit www.iihs.org.
9Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit www.nhtsa.gov.