2022 Volvo XC90 vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the optional A-Spec Package, was a stylish SUV. Its subtle yet effective design changes conveyed sportiness without overpromising on performance. Acura avoided making the RDX look like an off-roader, focusing instead on daily driving and road-tripping capabilities. The A-Spec Package added sporty interior elements like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and unique gauges, although the red markings on a brushed silver background were hard to read.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 had a sleek and upscale design, moving away from Volvo's boxy past. The XC90's body seemed poised to launch forward, with a long, sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The interior was described as "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trim, a sliding wood tambor cover, and a clear crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, although Nappa leather was still available for those who preferred it.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and front-wheel drive was standard, with the option to add the SH-AWD system for improved handling. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, adjusting powertrain response, steering effort, and suspension firmness. The A-Spec model had exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and larger performance all-season tires, enhancing its sporty feel.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version of the same engine producing 316 horsepower, and the T8 plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 horsepower. The T5 models were available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while the T6 and T8 models were all-wheel drive only. The T8's electric motor provided early torque, eliminating turbo lag and smoothing power delivery. The XC90 handled like a smaller SUV, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

The 2021 Acura RDX, though classified as a compact SUV, offered remarkable passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with 12-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised due to the need to maximize utility, resulting in a lack of leg support and an uncomfortable recline angle. Cargo volume was competitive, with 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additional storage compartments under the cargo floor were useful for organizing items.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 came in six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. The third row was suitable for children but lacked legroom and thigh support for adults. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The XC90 could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior featured ample storage space, comfortable seating, and a standard laminated panoramic moonroof, making it a pleasant environment for long drives.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. While this system mirrored the screen's layout, it required a learning curve and could be distracting. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, which delivered excellent sound quality. The RDX also offered smartphone projection, voice-recognition technology, and Key by Amazon In-Car Delivery.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, which used a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. The system supported familiar smartphone gestures but was occasionally glitchy and slow to respond. The XC90 included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, and an optional head-up display. The standard Harman Kardon Premium Sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system for audiophiles. The XC90 also offered multiple USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and the Volvo Care smartphone app for remote vehicle control.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. The RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, rain-sensing wipers, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. The Pilot Assist system combined several safety features for semi-autonomous driving on highways. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.