2019 Volvo XC40 vs 2020 Volvo XC90

The 2019 Volvo XC40 was a standout in the subcompact SUV segment, thanks to its distinctive styling that borrowed elements from its larger sibling, the XC90. Its upright design set it apart from competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and BMW X2, which had more hatchback-like appearances. This SUV-based design provided an elevated driving position and ample head- and legroom. The XC40 came in three trims: Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription, with the base Momentum trim offering a well-equipped package that included 18-inch wheels, LED signature headlights, and a 9-inch Sensus touchscreen infotainment display. The R-Design trim added sporty elements like a unique front grille and ambient interior lighting, while the Inscription trim featured luxurious touches such as a panoramic sunroof and driftwood door inlays.

In contrast, the 2020 Volvo XC90 represented the pinnacle of modern Volvo design, showcasing how a large SUV could be as visually appealing as a sedan. The R-Design trim featured a blacked-out honeycomb grille, black window surrounds, and 22-inch rims, enhancing its already handsome figure. The "Thor's hammer" LED headlights and tall, thin taillights were signature Volvo elements. The XC90's interior was a testament to craftsmanship, with options for matte wood trim, wool fabric seats, and leather-wrapped surfaces. The seats were exceptionally comfortable, offering power-adjustable thigh extensions and optional massage functions. The XC90's cabin was a blend of simplicity and quality, with thoughtful details like the Swedish flag tag and a twist-action ignition knob.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, delivering 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It featured standard all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission, though the shifter design was somewhat confusing. Despite this, the XC40 offered brisk acceleration, well-weighted steering, and a balanced suspension that absorbed road bumps while maintaining responsiveness. The Drive Mode button allowed drivers to switch between Comfort, Eco, Dynamic, Off-Road, and Individual modes, with Dynamic mode enhancing acceleration and steering feel. Fuel economy was estimated at 23 mpg city, 31 highway, and 26 combined, though real-world testing showed 21 mpg.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The T5 model produced 250 horsepower, while the T6 added a supercharger for 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Polestar tune further boosted these numbers to 330 hp and 325 lb-ft. Despite these figures, the XC90's performance was not as linear or refined as some competitors, and fuel economy was unimpressive, with the T6 AWD rated at 18 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined. The T8 plug-in hybrid offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, but its added weight diminished the expected performance gains. The XC90 excelled in comfort and quietness, though it lacked sporty dynamics.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 made excellent use of its space, offering generous front-seat head- and legroom. The center console featured a removable trash bin and a wireless charging pad. The backseat provided ample legroom and smart storage solutions, while the hands-free power liftgate revealed a decent-size load floor with additional storage below. The rear seats could be easily folded to expand cargo space to 57.5 cubic feet, making it one of the most spacious subcompact SUVs.

The 2020 Volvo XC90's interior was well-organized, with the Sensus infotainment system initializing quickly and offering easy access to various functions. The cabin layout was stellar, with seven seats standard and an optional integrated booster cushion for young children. The first and second rows provided generous legroom and comfort, while the third row was best suited for small children. Cargo space was impressive, with up to 85.7 cubic feet available with the last two rows folded. The XC90's sightlines from the driver's seat were also commendable.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 featured a large portrait-oriented touchscreen that housed most vehicle controls, with only a few physical buttons for essential functions. The Sensus system was user-friendly, with a home screen and button for easy navigation. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration worked seamlessly, and the available Multimedia Package added a navigation system and a 15-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. However, accessing heated seat and steering wheel controls required multiple steps on the screen.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 came standard with Volvo Pilot Assist, a semi-automated driving system that combined adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The R-Design trim boasted a Bowers & Wilkins stereo with 19 speakers and 1,400 watts of power, offering an immersive audio experience. The portrait-oriented touchscreen made navigation easier, though onboard apps were slow to load. The instrument panel could be reskinned, but lacked the customization options found in some competitors. Volvo needed to improve the digital screen's configurability and display of individual tire pressures.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 emphasized safety with standard features like a full array of airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and a rear-collision warning system. The City Safe automatic braking system detected cars, pedestrians, and large animals. The optional Vision Package added blind-spot detection, cross-traffic alert, and Pilot Assist. However, the XC40's design resulted in large blind spots due to its massive C-pillars, and the shifter design posed potential safety issues.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though its headlight test lowered its rating to a Top Safety Pick. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. The XC90's boron steel roof and curtain airbags provided exceptional rollover protection. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in its unique whiplash protection system and ethical approach to vehicle safety.