2021 Honda CR-V vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Honda CR-V had a design that blended into the crowded compact crossover market. Its styling was nearly identical to its competitors, with only minor details like the grille and some chromed plastic features setting it apart. The color options were limited, with most being shades of gray, black, or white, and the more vibrant colors were hard to find in dealer inventories. Inside, the CR-V offered a modern look with angular seats and a mix of cloth or leather depending on the trim level. However, competitors like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson offered more distinctive styling, especially in mid-tier trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution from Volvo's boxy past, embracing a sleek and upscale design. The XC90 had a poised stance with a long, sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches that emphasized its athleticism. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian luxury, featuring natural wood and metal trim, a crystal gear selector, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery. The XC90's design and materials clearly positioned it as a near-luxury vehicle, offering a more refined and distinctive look compared to the CR-V.

The 2021 Honda CR-V was not built for high performance but rather for smooth and steady driving. It featured a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine across all trims, achieving 0-60 mph in about 7.8 seconds. The CR-V's continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided a predictable but unengaging driving experience. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The CR-V's suspension setup was typical for its class, offering decent handling and ride quality without any surprises.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered a choice of three powertrains. The T5 model had a 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, while the T6 model featured a supercharged and turbocharged version of the same engine, producing 316 horsepower. The T8 model combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 455 horsepower. The XC90's engines required premium gasoline, and fuel economy varied by model, with the T8 offering an electric range of up to 36 miles. The XC90's driving experience was superb, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

The 2021 Honda CR-V was designed to fit five people comfortably and carry their gear. It offered 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of total cargo space with the rear seats folded. The CR-V's tailgate options varied by trim, with higher trims offering power and hands-free operation. However, roof rails were only standard on the top Touring trim.

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 not for adults. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 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 panoramic moonroof, making it a pleasant environment in various weather conditions.

The 2021 Honda CR-V's base LX trim had a basic 5-inch color screen with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims featured a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The audio system varied by trim, with the Touring trim offering a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were plentiful in all but the base trim, and the Touring trim included a wireless phone charger.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen interface and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The Advanced package added a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. The standard audio system was Harman Kardon, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins upgrade. The XC90 included multiple USB ports and a WiFi hotspot, along with the Volvo Care smartphone app for remote vehicle controls.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA overall crash test rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Honda's approach to safety was commendable, making advanced safety features standard across all trims. These included a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and auto high-beam headlamps. The only feature not standard on the base trim was blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. The XC90 came with a comprehensive list of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. Volvo's Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways, enhancing safety and driver comfort.