2022 Volvo XC90 vs 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 GMC Yukon, positioned as a "premium grade" vehicle between Chevrolet and Cadillac, retained its rugged yet refined image as it aimed at buyers prioritizing substance over flashy branding. The Yukon presented a broad appeal with its truck-based full-size SUV design, available in a range of trims, including the upscale Denali and the off-road-capable AT4. The Denali trim, specifically, boasted an intricate grille, vent-style fender badges, and chrome accents, giving it a distinctly upscale appearance. The exterior look, especially in the Midnight Blue paint and glossy 22-inch wheels of the Denali Ultimate, was designed to impress those who favored bold aesthetics. Its exclusive dashboard design, complemented with genuine wood trim, leather-wrapped panels, and unique stitching, emphasized luxury. The Ultimate Package’s panoramic sunroof added to the upscale cabin experience that differentiated the Denali from its Chevrolet Tahoe counterpart.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 evolved from its boxy predecessors into a sophisticated and luxurious SUV. The sleek roofline, pronounced wheel arches, and the iconic "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights lent the XC90 a poised and athletic profile. While retaining its heritage of safety and family-friendliness, the 2022 model projected an image of modern elegance. Inside, the XC90's interior exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" with natural wood and metal trims. Details such as the sliding wood tambor cover and the crystal gear selector handle reinforced its premium status. Despite Volvo’s goal to switch to leather-free interiors by 2030, the XC90 still offered Nappa leather options, providing a touch of traditional luxury, and featured a wool blend alternative that promised durability and easy maintenance.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options. The base models, excluding the Denali, featured a 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V8, while the Denali excelled with a 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 460 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, the engine provided formidable acceleration, albeit at the cost of fuel efficiency, achieving between 14.4 and 16.2 mpg in varied driving conditions. With the Active Response 4WD system and advanced suspension technologies, the Yukon demonstrated commendable handling and ride quality, though its 22-inch wheels could make the ride feel stiff over uneven surfaces. It was capable of towing up to 8,300 pounds and had improved payload ratings, making it a practical choice for heavy-duty tasks.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 showcased three powertrains. The T5 models housed a 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, whereas the T6 engines were supercharged and turbocharged versions generating 316 horsepower. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined a gasoline engine with an electric motor, achieving an impressive 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. All XC90s featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, with T6 and T8 models standardizing all-wheel drive. Fuel economy varied from 21 to 30 mpg for the T5 models and dropped slightly for the T6. The T8, however, offered a significant 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range, extending to 36 miles in the extended-range variant. The hybrid's performance was marked by smooth, spirited acceleration, thanks to the electric motor's immediate torque delivery, making the driving experience particularly enjoyable.

The 2021 GMC Yukon, with its new independent rear suspension, provided substantial increases in passenger and cargo space. The front seats, although lacking a massage function and having narrow door panel edges, offered 12-way adjustability and were both heated and ventilated in the Denali trim. The sliding and collapsing second-row seats, with a power release feature, enhanced comfort and accessibility. The third-row seat, thanks to improved thigh support, allowed adults to sit comfortably. In terms of cargo capacity, the Yukon Denali held 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 72.6 cubic feet and maxing out at 122.9 cubic feet—minivan-like numbers that outdid most competitors.

Conversely, the Volvo XC90 came in six- and seven-passenger configurations, with the latter featuring a more spacious third row. While the third row was best suited for children, adults might find it cramped. It offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 41.8 cubic feet with the row folded down and up to 85.7 cubic feet with both rows folded. Though its towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds was less than the Yukon’s, the XC90 excelled in interior storage and comfort. The laminated panoramic moonroof contributed to the light and airy cabin, while the efficient air-conditioning system effectively handled extreme weather conditions, reaffirming Volvo's reputation for both luxury and practicality.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali equipped with the Ultimate Package featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, providing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and over-the-air updates. Upgrades included wireless device charging, a navigation system, a 14-speaker Bose premium audio system, and a Rear Seat Media system with dual 12.6-inch displays. Despite some glitches in the rear entertainment system and a less-than-impressive sound quality from the Bose audio, the Yukon’s tech offerings were comprehensive. Additional features like a 15-inch color head-up display, rear camera mirror, and multiple camera vantage points further enhanced its technological appeal.

The 2022 Volvo XC90’s Sensus infotainment system featured a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen, with responsive and intuitive smartphone-like gestures, though it occasionally lagged. Apple CarPlay integration improved its functionality, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel provided clear and customizable visuals. The available Advanced package, with a head-up display and 360-degree surround view camera system, was a noteworthy addition. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system upgrade offered an exceptional auditory experience, highlighted by its surround sound staging. The XC90 also included multiple USB ports and a WiFi hotspot, maintaining connectivity and convenience for all passengers.

The 2021 GMC Yukon came with numerous advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), including forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. Starting from the SLT trim, it included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim added adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic emergency braking. Its adaptive cruise and lane assistance systems operated smoothly and subtly, enhancing driver confidence without being intrusive. Although crash-test ratings were unavailable, the Yukon's robust size suggested formidable protection in collisions with most other vehicles.

The 2022 Volvo XC90, staying true to Volvo’s safety legacy, offered a comprehensive suite of safety features. These included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, and the Pilot Assist system, which provided a semi-autonomous driving experience on highways. It was highly rated by safety organizations, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The XC90 aimed to ensure maximum safety for all occupants, thereby retaining its reputation as a benchmark for vehicular safety standards.