2021 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It featured a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, moving away from the rugged appearance of the Tiguan and Atlas crossovers. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it shared some design elements with the ID.3, the ID.4 aimed to appeal to the U.S. market's preference for crossovers. Its interior combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic finishes. The base model included a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available on higher trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 marked a significant evolution from Volvo's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while moving towards luxury. The XC90, built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, showcased a sleek and athletic profile with pronounced wheel arches and a distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight design. The interior embodied "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trim, along with exquisite details like a crystal gear selector. Volvo offered both leather and tailored wool blend upholstery, with the latter being a sustainable option. The XC90's interior was designed for comfort and practicality, making it a compelling choice for families.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 initially launched with a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. It was the first rear-wheel-drive Volkswagen passenger car in the U.S. since the Beetle. An all-wheel-drive version, introduced later in 2021, increased power output to 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. While the ID.4 wasn't a performance car, it offered a balanced driving experience with its rear-wheel-drive setup. The ID.4 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride and noticeable body roll in corners. Unlike many electric vehicles, it didn't offer aggressive regenerative braking, opting for a more traditional driving experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain options. The T5 model featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 model added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery. The T8 model, in particular, provided spirited acceleration and a seamless blend of gasoline and electric power. The XC90's handling belied its size, making it enjoyable to drive.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a spacious interior compared to other EVs, with more front and rear headroom than its competitors. However, its legroom was average for the segment, and it fell short of the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 in terms of rear headroom and legroom. The ID.4 provided 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with them folded, surpassing several EV rivals but not matching the CR-V and RAV4. The absence of a front trunk allowed for more cabin space, contributing to a roomy feel from the driver's seat. The ID.4's interior featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and standard heated steering wheel and front seats, enhancing comfort in cold weather.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, depending on the configuration. The third row was suitable for children, but adults might find it lacking in legroom and thigh support. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with it folded, and up to 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. It could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The XC90's interior was thoughtfully designed, with ample storage options and a spacious, airy cabin enhanced by a panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed well even in extreme heat, ensuring comfort in various weather conditions.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5.3-inch display served as the instrument cluster, and haptic touchpads replaced traditional switchgear. While the setup looked modern, it was challenging to use due to the lack of tactile feedback. The ID.4 included a natural-language voice-control system, allowing drivers to bypass the haptic controls. The ID.Light feature, a light strip at the base of the windshield, communicated information to the driver but was easily overlooked. Despite some gimmicky features, the infotainment system was well-positioned and user-friendly.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered tablet-like functionality with familiar gestures. However, it was occasionally slow to respond. The nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen was positioned for easy access, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel provided clear graphics. The Advanced package added a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. The XC90 came with a standard Harman Kardon sound system, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins upgrade for audiophiles. It included multiple USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and the Volvo Care smartphone app for remote vehicle control.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star rating from the NHTSA for the RWD model. It came with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Travel Assist system offered automated lane centering and performed well on highways, providing a smooth driving experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured a wide array of safety technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping aid, and adaptive cruise control. The Pilot Assist system combined several safety features to assist with highway driving, offering a safe and relaxing experience.