Volvo XC60 vs Lexus RX
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Volvo XC60 starts from $74,990 before on-road costs, while the Lexus RX opens at $84,900. That makes the Volvo XC60 the more affordable entry point by $9,910.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $82,489 and $93,390 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Volvo XC60 and Lexus RX hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 98% for the Volvo XC60 and 90% for the Lexus RX.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 6 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 8 in the Volvo XC60 and 8 in the Lexus RX. The Volvo XC60 adds a 360-degree camera that the Lexus RX misses.
Feature Showdown
The Volvo XC60 features a 11.2-inch touchscreen, while the Lexus RX gets a 14-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Volvo XC60 stands out with Harman Kardon audio that you will not find on the Lexus RX. The Lexus RX counters with ventilated seats, Lexus Premium Sound audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Volvo XC60 uses a 2.0L 4-cyl turbocharged 48V mild hybrid B5 producing 183kW and 350Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.7 seconds.
The Lexus RX responds with a Hybrid making 179kW and 221Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.7 seconds.
The Volvo XC60 has the clear power advantage at 183kW vs 179kW. In the real-world sprint, the Volvo XC60 is 1.0s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Volvo XC60 measures 4,688mm long on a 2,865mm wheelbase, 202mm shorter than the Lexus RX at 4,890mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Volvo XC60 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 505L in the Volvo XC60 and 612L in the Lexus RX, giving the Lexus RX a 107L advantage.
For towing, the Volvo XC60 leads with a 2,400kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 900kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.8m to 12.1m
Based on 12.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,166/year for the Volvo XC60 and $1,967/year for the Lexus RX. That is a $199 annual difference in favour of the Lexus RX.
Estimated annual total: $2,166 (Volvo XC60) vs $1,967 (Lexus RX). The Lexus RX saves you roughly $199 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Volvo XC60) vs 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus RX). The Volvo XC60 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: —4yr (Lexus RX).
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Volvo XC60 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Volvo's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus RX if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Volvo XC60 takes 5 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Lexus RX will save you roughly $199 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Lexus RX has a clear edge. The Volvo XC60 adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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