2021 Mazda CX-30 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle, especially for those who appreciated black wheels. It featured exclusive shiny black 18-inch wheels, a shiny black grille, and side mirror housings, along with thick matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the CX-30 Turbo a unique appearance, as if a black Sharpie had been used liberally before a more restrained approach was applied. Mazda claimed that the lower body cladding provided a light and agile look, making the body appear to float over the wheels, a perception that was consistent whether the vehicle was in motion or stationary. The CX-30 stood out from the Mazda3 hatchback, on which it was based, by being higher off the ground both visually and physically. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Mazda3's, with quality materials and a sophisticated vibe, enhanced by stitched chocolate brown surfaces. The CX-30 Turbo offered a choice of black or Griege leatherette upholstery, with black or white leather available in higher trims. Prices ranged from about $31,000 to $35,745, depending on the trim and options.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 had evolved significantly from Volvo's boxy past, embracing a more upscale and luxurious image. The XC90, riding on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, was Volvo's flagship SUV. It had a poised stance and sleek profile, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches that emphasized athleticism. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian Modern and Swedish Luxury, featuring natural wood and metal trim, a sliding wood tambor cover on the center console, and a clear crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, though Nappa leather was still available for those who preferred it. The XC90's interior was spacious and airy, with a standard laminated panoramic moonroof enhancing the sense of openness. The SUV's air-conditioning system performed admirably during a heat wave, providing a comfortable sanctuary from the weather.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel's octane rating. Torque ranged from 310 to 320 lb-ft, ensuring consistent acceleration at lower engine speeds. The CX-30 Turbo featured a six-speed automatic transmission, standard i-Activ all-wheel-drive (AWD), and G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC-Plus) technology. Its fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg combined, with a real-world average of 24.1 mpg. The CX-30 Turbo's driving experience was characterized by effortless acceleration and subtle sophistication, though it didn't handle as well as the Mazda3 due to its added height and weight. The SUV's 2.5 inches of extra ground clearance and Off-Road mode made it suitable for light off-road adventures, with the i-Activ AWD system providing remarkable traction and response.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version, and the T8 plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. The T5 models were front-wheel drive with optional AWD, while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. The XC90's engines required Premium gasoline, with fuel economy ratings ranging from 21 to 27 mpg combined, depending on the model. The T8's electric motor provided an 18-mile EV range, with an extended range variant offering up to 36 miles. The XC90's driving experience was superb, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, thanks to the electric motor's early torque delivery. The SUV handled like a smaller vehicle, making it enjoyable to drive despite its size.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable and driver-focused interior, with eight-way power adjustment and heated front seats. However, ventilated seats were not available, and the front passenger seat lacked the same range of adjustment as the driver's seat. The cabin's organic shapes and minimalism contributed to a sense of spaciousness, though the rear seat was cramped for adults. The CX-30 Turbo provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Storage space was generous, but the location of the optional wireless smartphone charger in the center console storage bin forced a choice between storage and charging.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was available in six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. The third row was suitable for children but lacked legroom for adults. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 85.7 cubic feet with both rows folded. The SUV could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The XC90's interior was spacious and well-equipped, with ample storage options and a standard panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed well, providing a comfortable environment even in extreme heat.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display, operated via physical controls and voice commands. While the system required acclimation, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Premium trims included SiriusXM, navigation, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The CX-30 Turbo also had an Active Driving Display, projecting useful data onto the windshield.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system featured a nine-inch touchscreen with tablet-like functionality. While intuitive, the system was occasionally glitchy. The XC90 offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The standard Harman Kardon audio system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system. The XC90 included multiple USB ports and a WiFi hotspot, with a complimentary trial subscription.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. It came with a full suite of i-ActiveSense advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive front lighting and Traffic Jam Assist.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 also received a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It featured a comprehensive list of safety features, including Pilot Assist, which combined several safety functions for highway driving.