2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 GMC Yukon underwent a significant redesign, echoing GMC's blend of rugged refinement and premium grade, situated uniquely between the plush Buick and the prestigious Cadillac within the General Motors lineup. With options varying from the base SLE to the luxurious Denali, and the new off-road-ready AT4, the Yukon presented itself as a versatile family SUV. The Denali version, in particular, sported a distinctive look with its large, intricate grille and flashy 22-inch wheels, despite its high price. Its interior boasted unique enhancements like real wood trim and a sophisticated dashboard design that set it apart from its Chevrolet siblings and earlier Yukon models.

Conversely, the 2021 Volvo XC90 maintained its distinct Scandinavian design ethos with a minimalist but functional approach, distinctively balancing modernity with Volvo’s traditional boxy shape. The XC90 added softer lines and additional chrome to its exterior, enhancing its appeal without surrendering its iconic design. Inside, the XC90 reflected Swedish simplicity combined with luxury, highlighted by natural-looking wood trims and the option for unique wool upholstery, aspects less common in its segment. The vehicle’s interior, particularly with the optional air-suspension, upheld Volvo's commitment to comfort without compromising on elegance.

In the performance arena, the GMC Yukon came equipped with robust engine options. These included the base 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V8 and the more powerful 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 in the Denali. There was also an upcoming 3.0-liter turbo-diesel option. Our Denali test model featured the 6.2-liter engine, offering vigorous acceleration and the quintessential V8 rumble, although its fuel efficiency ratings lagged behind, especially when equipped with larger tires and the new independent suspension and air ride enhancements, which, while improving ride quality, also made the Yukon aware of road imperfections.

The Volvo XC90, on the other hand, offered a different philosophy with its trio of 2.0-liter four-cylinder powertrains, including the turbocharged T5, the turbo and supercharged T6, and the T8 plug-in hybrid with an impressive 400 horsepower combined output. The hybrid aimed for efficiency, although pure electric drive was limited in practicality, needing frequent assistance from the gasoline engine under normal driving conditions. Despite its smaller engine and the challenges of incorporating electric assist, the XC90 maintained commendable ride quality and control, particularly beneficial in the luxury SUV segment.

The GMC Yukon's 2021 redesign notably increased its interior space, thanks to the adoption of an independent rear suspension. The Denali model provided a plethora of luxury features, ample room across all three rows, and impressive cargo capacity, with up to 122.9 cubic feet of space, paralleling a minivan's utility. These changes addressed prior critiques regarding passenger comfort, particularly in the third row, and elevated the Yukon's family-friendly credentials.

Conversely, Volvo's XC90 offered configurable seating for six or seven with a variety of upscale amenities but maintained only average space for its class, particularly in the third row. The cargo space was notably less, at a maximum of 64.1 cubic feet, constrained further in the hybrid model. However, the XC90's cabin reflected a serene, minimalist design with advanced climate control options, enhancing overall passenger comfort despite its spatial limitations.

Technologically, both SUVs offered comprehensive infotainment and connectivity features. The Yukon Denali sported a 10.2-inch touchscreen with integration options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a premium Bose sound system, although some users reported usability issues with the system’s more advanced functions. GMC’s tech included multiple assistance features to aid maneuverability and improve the driving experience, particularly in congested situations.

Volvo's XC90 showcased the Sensus system, which prioritized ease of use with a straightforward interface reminiscent of a tablet, although it featured minimal physical controls which could be a drawback for some users. The overall minimalistic approach fit well with the interior design, maintaining functional elegance. The sound system and connectivity options, including various USB ports, rounded out a well-balanced technological suite.

Safety features in the GMC Yukon included a suite of driver assistance technologies like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, with additional systems like adaptive cruise control available in higher trims. The Yukon's comprehensive safety suite aimed to ensure passenger security.

The Volvo XC90 carried on the brand’s strong safety reputation, achieving high ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. It included more standard safety features than many of its competitors, such as Volvo's advanced Pilot Assist system, which benefited from smooth operation and quick responsiveness, though it had limitations in more complex driving scenarios.