2022 Volvo XC60 vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a striking crossover SUV that seamlessly incorporated Audi's signature design language while retaining a unique character. Its front fascia was expressive, featuring LED headlights flanking the large, horizontal-lined Singleframe grille. This design element accentuated the SUV's width, making it appear broader and more rugged. The body itself boasted precise character lines, and the greenhouse resembled a protective shell, giving the vehicle a solid, fortress-like appearance. At the rear, large, bold taillights contributed to the Q5's modern, sophisticated look. The plug-in hybrid variant of the Q5, known as the Q5 PHEV, came with S-Line trim pieces and 19-inch standard wheels, with 20-inch wheels as an option, further enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

Inside, the Q5 continued its theme of class and modernity. Despite its plethora of technological features, the cabin maintained an uncluttered and clean appearance. Controls were logically arranged, and the use of materials such as real wood, metal, and carefully crafted surfaces added a touch of authenticity and luxury. The 10.1-inch touchscreen was rightly positioned to be within the driver's line of sight, making it highly functional. Moreover, the Q5's second row was as thoughtfully designed as the front, featuring standard leather seating surfaces for a plush and comfortable experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle style adjustments to present a slightly sportier look for the model year. A new front fascia with "air blades" on either side of the grille gave the SUV a more dynamic appearance, and a revised rear bumper cleverly concealed the tailpipes. Updated wheel designs also contributed to its refreshed look. The XC60 shared its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with the larger XC90, S90 sedans, and V90 and V60 Cross Country wagons.

Inside, the XC60’s cabin remained largely unchanged, continuing with a clean design and minimal clutter, highlighted by a portrait-oriented touchscreen. However, it felt somewhat subdued in comparison to other Volvo models we had driven, even with the added flair of aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats in the B6 R-Design edition. The Inscription trim level offered Nappa leather upholstery for an added touch of luxury, maintaining Volvo’s reputation for using high-quality materials.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV added excitement to an already enjoyable driving experience. The standard gasoline-only Q5, known as the Q5 45, was already fun with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The PHEV version supplemented this with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque, thanks to a 14.1-kWh battery. This combination yielded a total of 362 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque, well-suited to its 4,665-pound curb weight. An electric motor worked harmoniously with the turbocharged engine, providing a smooth boost during high-demand situations and aiding fuel efficiency during coasting. This setup allowed the Q5 PHEV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds and achieve impressive fuel economy figures of 65 MPGe combined. In gasoline-only mode, it was rated at 27 mpg combined. Recharging the battery pack could be done overnight with household current or in just 2.4 hours using Level 2 service.

The Q5 PHEV employed a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro all-wheel drive. It offered modes to drive on battery power alone, to reserve battery power for later use, or to operate in hybrid mode. This versatility allowed drivers to optimize their driving experience depending on the situation. The vehicle’s speed-sensitive electromechanical power steering and independent suspension ensured good handling, minimal body roll, and effective braking, though the wide turning radius was initially surprising.

For 2022, Volvo introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains for the XC60, moving away from the previous T5 and T6 engines. Both powertrains incorporated a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt electrical system, featuring an integrated starter generator to provide an additional 13 horsepower when needed. The B6 powertrain also benefited from an electric supercharger.

The B5 variant generated 258 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, while the B6 variant produced 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 offered standard front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive, whereas the B6 was exclusively all-wheel drive.

While power output and acceleration weren't as robust as the previous year’s gasoline-only models, the B6 could still accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, with the B5 doing it in 6.5 seconds (6.6 seconds with FWD). The smooth power delivery of the mild-hybrid system was noteworthy, encouraging calm and relaxed driving. XC60's ride quality, enhanced by optional air suspension, emphasized comfort and quietness, providing a true luxury experience. The XC60 Recharge added the advantage of 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque, delivering a quicker 0 to 60 mph time of 5 seconds. The Polestar Engineered variant pushed output to 415 horsepower and 494 pound-feet, reducing the 0 to 60 mph time to 4.9 seconds with additional performance tuning and suspension upgrades.

Smart packaging in the 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV resulted in no loss of cargo space, even with the battery pack positioned under the luggage compartment floor. This allowed for 25.1 cubic feet of space behind the second row, which expanded to 53.1 cubic feet with the second row folded down. The second row offered 37.8 inches of legroom, 37.7 inches of headroom, and 56.5 inches of shoulder room, facilitating comfortable seating for two adults and accommodating a third for shorter trips. The front seats were noted for their comfort and support, equipped with a wide adjustment range, heating, and ventilation on the Prestige trim. Practical storage options like cupholders, cubbies, and a center-console storage bin made the Q5 PHEV a convenient daily driver.

Despite the subtle changes, the 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitiveness within the market segment about passenger space. It matched the Q5 in rear-seat headroom, which was on the lower end for the segment, while front-seat headroom remained above average. Legroom in both rows was adequate but not class-leading. Cargo space in the mild-hybrid models was 21.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, expanding to 49.8 cubic feet with them folded down. The plug-in hybrid versions sacrificed a bit of room, offering 21.1 cubic feet with the seats up and 49.3 cubic feet with them down. Although this was less than many similarly sized luxury crossovers, the XC60 did provide an excellent driving position and good visibility, facilitated by large exterior mirrors and a well-designed roofline.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV came with Audi’s MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, known for its intuitive operation. The Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster offered customizable views and added a futuristic touch to the cabin. Enhanced navigation was available in higher trims, working in tandem with the hybrid system to optimize fuel and battery usage. The Integrated Toll Module, standard on all Q5 models, made toll road navigation easier. An optional Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system provided premium sound quality with 19 speakers and a 16-channel, 755-watt amplifier. Wireless Apple CarPlay further improved connectivity and usability.

Volvo’s 2022 XC60 received a significant tech update, integrating an Android Automotive operating system into its 9-inch touchscreen. This system included Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and access to third-party apps through the Google Play Store. iPhone users were assured of compatibility, though they wouldn’t benefit from the Google-specific features. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster could display navigation data or simplify its interface with a Calm setting. Available upgrades included head-up displays and audio systems from Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins. This tech overhaul allowed for over-the-air software updates and streamlined navigation of the screen's various functions.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV’s safety ratings were pending from the IIHS and NHTSA. Past models of the Q5 earned strong ratings, with the 2020 model securing top marks in all but the headlights category. Standard safety features included six airbags, antilock braking with brake assist, Audi Pre Sense basic, and a comprehensive electronic stability control system. Additional driver-assistance options encompassed Audi Advanced Key, Audi Pre Sense rear, Audi Side Assist with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control with traffic-jam assist, and a top-view camera system.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 did not have IIHS ratings at the time but was expected to match the 2021 model’s Top Safety Pick+ accolade. The NHTSA had not rated the 2022 model either, although the previous year’s model received strong overall ratings. Standard safety features were robust, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and more. New features for the model year included a Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. Volvo’s Pilot Assist system, combining adaptive cruise control with automated lane centering, was also available as an option.