2021 Honda HR-V vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Honda HR-V presented a softer and friendlier appearance compared to Honda's larger SUVs, which typically featured more traditional and intimidating designs. Its distinctive styling included unique details like converging window lines near the taillights, which also housed the rear door handles. Most trims came with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Sport model boasted matte-black 18-inch wheels and blacked-out trim. The interior was plain yet functional, with good material quality and fit. Higher trims offered features like push-button start, automatic climate control, a moonroof, and heated front seats, with leather upholstery available on the EX-L model.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 marked a significant evolution from Volvo's past boxy designs, embracing a more upscale and luxurious image while maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented reputation. The XC90's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The interior exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trim, a crystal gear selector, and a commitment to leather-free options by 2030. The XC90 offered a choice between Nappa leather and a tailored wool blend upholstery, with the latter being a unique but potentially polarizing option.

The 2021 Honda HR-V was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While all-wheel drive (AWD) was available, front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard. The HR-V's powertrain was considered underpowered for highway driving, with the CVT compounding the issue. However, its chassis provided a rewarding driving experience on twisty roads, living up to Honda's reputation for fun cars. The HR-V's AWD system was suitable for slippery roads but not for rough terrain, and it lacked towing capability.

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 delivering 316 horsepower, and the T8 plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 horsepower. The T5 was available in FWD and AWD, while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. The XC90's driving experience was superb, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model. The electric motor provided early torque, smoothing out power delivery and enhancing driving enjoyment.

The 2021 Honda HR-V offered impressive cargo space for its size, with up to 58.8 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded. It excelled in rear-seat legroom, leading its segment, though front-seat legroom and headroom were average. The interior featured sensibly-designed controls, including large climate control knobs and a standard tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, but lacked clever storage solutions.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row. It offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The XC90 could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on configuration. The interior was spacious and airy, with ample storage options and a standard panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed well even in extreme heat, ensuring comfort in various weather conditions.

The 2021 Honda HR-V's base LX trim included Bluetooth, a 5-inch display, and a four-speaker audio system. Higher trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but these features required an upgrade from the base model. The infotainment system was functional but lacked the sophistication of competitors, and the touchscreen size was smaller than many rivals.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. While the system was intuitive, it could be glitchy and slow. The XC90 offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a head-up display and 360-degree camera available in the Advanced package. The standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system for audiophiles. The XC90 included multiple USB ports and a WiFi hotspot, enhancing connectivity and convenience.

The 2021 Honda HR-V received top "Good" scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. However, it had "Marginal" and "Poor" headlight ratings and an "Acceptable" LATCH rating. Honda Sensing safety features were available only on higher trims, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Pilot Assist. It earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. The XC90's safety systems provided a high level of driver assistance, making it a safe and relaxing choice for highway driving.