2021 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Buick Enclave

2021 Volvo XC40
2021 Volvo XC40
$33,700MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Buick Enclave
2022 Buick Enclave
$42,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Volvo XC40
$33,700MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Buick Enclave
$42,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
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CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Volvo XC40 is 8.0 out of 10, while the 2022 Buick Enclave scores 7.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Volvo XC40 is the recommended choice, offering a more refined interior, advanced technology, and a higher overall rating.

Overview

MSRP

$33,700

MSRP

$42,800

Average price

$27,295

Average price

$30,437

Listings

232

Listings

656
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.0 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Powerful engine
  • Multiple powertrain options
Cons
  • Not much cargo space
  • Recharge model is expensive
Pros
  • Quiet cabin
  • Great ride quality
  • Spacious
Cons
  • Poor value for money
  • Poor fuel economy

2021 Volvo XC40 Reviews Summary

Introduced for the 2019 model year, the Volvo XC40 enters 2021 with one major change—the addition of an all-electric powertrain option. The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge is the Swedish automaker’s first mass-market electric vehicle, in fact.

The Recharge will be sold alongside gasoline versions of the XC40, which carry over largely unchanged, and compete against small luxury crossovers like the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, and Lexus UX. With its electric powertrain, the Recharge is a de facto Tesla Model Y competitor. It’s also priced similar to high-end versions of the Ford Mustang Mach-E, although the two electric crossovers have somewhat different philosophies.

In addition to that zero-emission powertrain, the Recharge gets an Android-based operating system, over-the-air (OTA) software update capability for all vehicle systems, and some updates to driver-assist tech. These changes don’t apply to gasoline 2021 XC40 models, but Volvo does plan to add the Android operating system to more vehicles in the future.

Since the Recharge is the main new thing for the 2021 XC40, that’s what we focused on for this review. While the gasoline XC40 is available in three trim levels—Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription—with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), the Recharge is only offered in a single trim level, with standard AWD.

2022 Buick Enclave Reviews Summary

Buick's three-row SUV gets a welcome freshening for the 2022 model year. Updates include new front and rear styling, new wheel designs, and exterior lighting enhancements. Inside, there's a new steering wheel, a restyled center console with new shifter buttons, and revised seat trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto debut, and a new wireless phone charger is now available. But perhaps most importantly, the 2022 Enclave receives desperately needed standard driver-assistance and safety technology.
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Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 187 hp I4

Engine

3.6L 310 hp V6

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

187 hp @ 4700 rpm

Horsepower

310 hp @ 6800 rpm

MPG City

23

MPG City

18

MPG Highway

32

MPG Highway

26
2021 Volvo XC40
2021 Volvo XC40
$33,700MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Buick Enclave
2022 Buick Enclave
$42,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Volvo XC40
$33,700MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Buick Enclave
$42,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Volvo XC40 is 8.0 out of 10, while the 2022 Buick Enclave scores 7.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Volvo XC40 is the recommended choice, offering a more refined interior, advanced technology, and a higher overall rating.

Overview
MSRP
$33,700
$42,800
Average price
$27,295
$30,437
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.5
4.6
Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Read full review

7.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Powerful engine
  • Multiple powertrain options
Cons
  • Not much cargo space
  • Recharge model is expensive
Pros
  • Quiet cabin
  • Great ride quality
  • Spacious
Cons
  • Poor value for money
  • Poor fuel economy
Summary

Introduced for the 2019 model year, the Volvo XC40 enters 2021 with one major change—the addition of an all-electric powertrain option. The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge is the Swedish automaker’s first mass-market electric vehicle, in fact.

The Recharge will be sold alongside gasoline versions of the XC40, which carry over largely unchanged, and compete against small luxury crossovers like the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, and Lexus UX. With its electric powertrain, the Recharge is a de facto Tesla Model Y competitor. It’s also priced similar to high-end versions of the Ford Mustang Mach-E, although the two electric crossovers have somewhat different philosophies.

In addition to that zero-emission powertrain, the Recharge gets an Android-based operating system, over-the-air (OTA) software update capability for all vehicle systems, and some updates to driver-assist tech. These changes don’t apply to gasoline 2021 XC40 models, but Volvo does plan to add the Android operating system to more vehicles in the future.

Since the Recharge is the main new thing for the 2021 XC40, that’s what we focused on for this review. While the gasoline XC40 is available in three trim levels—Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription—with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), the Recharge is only offered in a single trim level, with standard AWD.

Buick's three-row SUV gets a welcome freshening for the 2022 model year. Updates include new front and rear styling, new wheel designs, and exterior lighting enhancements. Inside, there's a new steering wheel, a restyled center console with new shifter buttons, and revised seat trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto debut, and a new wireless phone charger is now available. But perhaps most importantly, the 2022 Enclave receives desperately needed standard driver-assistance and safety technology.
Video
No video found
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.0L 187 hp I4
3.6L 310 hp V6
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
7
Horsepower
187 hp @ 4700 rpm
310 hp @ 6800 rpm
MPG City
23
18
MPG Highway
32
26
Look and feel
2021 Volvo XC40
9/10
2022 Buick Enclave
8/10

The 2021 Volvo XC40 had a more traditional SUV styling compared to other small luxury crossovers, featuring a tall, flat roof and an upright rear hatch. It seamlessly fit into the Volvo lineup with familial styling cues like the “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and a simple oval grille. Gasoline models offered a white contrasting roof for a retro look. The XC40 Recharge distinguished itself with a blanked-off grille, subtle “Recharge” badging, and model-specific alloy wheels. It also featured a gloss black roof and mirror caps, a slightly different rear bumper, and a model-exclusive Sage Green Metallic color. The interior was minimalist yet premium, with high-quality materials, real metal trim, and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery. The design was coherent, with elements like the portrait-oriented touchscreen and air vents melding into a pleasing whole.

The 2022 Buick Enclave took a more conservative approach to styling, reflecting its traditionally older customer base. However, over the last 15 years, Buick transitioned from a sedan-heavy lineup to an all-SUV portfolio, acknowledging market trends. The Enclave, introduced in 2008, replaced aging models and helped make Buick relevant again. A 2018 redesign moved it further upmarket. For 2022, the Enclave received a mid-cycle refresh with new exterior styling enhancements, including a new grille, front and rear fascias, headlamps, taillamps, and wheel designs. The Avenir trim level featured unique styling elements and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave got a restyled center console with new push-button gears and upgraded materials. The Avenir trim added climate-controlled front seats, heated second-row captain's chairs, and unique trim and seat stitching, offering a near-luxury experience.

Performance
2021 Volvo XC40
8/10
2022 Buick Enclave
8/10

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a three-tiered powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge at the top. The gasoline options included a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base FWD T4 had 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD T5 had 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, featuring one electric motor for each axle, enabling AWD and a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft. The 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack provided electricity, with 75 kWh of usable capacity. Volvo quoted zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds for the Recharge, 6.1 seconds for the T5, and 8.1 seconds for the T4. All versions were electronically limited to 112 mph. The Recharge emphasized quiet and comfort over speed, with excellent ride quality even on rough roads. It also offered one-pedal driving and a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

The 2022 Buick Enclave kept it simple with a single powertrain option: a 3.6-liter V6 with direct injection paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It produced 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The Enclave came standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The SUV's maximum towing capacity was 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Enclave provided a smooth, quiet ride, enhanced by the optional Avenir Technology package, which included a premium ride suspension and continuously variable real-time chassis damping. The AWD-equipped test vehicle handled well on various terrains, offering a serene cabin experience thanks to Buick's QuietTuning and active noise cancellation technology. The powertrain was responsive, with good off-the-line acceleration and a nine-speed automatic transmission that performed seamlessly. The Enclave's engine sounds were surprisingly pleasant, adding a touch of personality to the driving experience.

Form and function
2021 Volvo XC40
7/10
2022 Buick Enclave
8/10

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge had no difference in passenger or cargo space compared to gasoline models. However, it was not particularly spacious, with less legroom in both the front and rear seats compared to the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The cargo area was also smaller, and the frunk was very small due to powertrain hardware. The gasoline XC40 was more competitive on interior space compared to rivals like the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. Volvo compensated for the lack of space with clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin in the center console, a bag hook in the glovebox door, and extra-large door bins. The storage cubby ahead of the shifter was well-shaped to hold a phone, with a wireless charging pad optional and a single USB-C port standard. However, second-row occupants did not have phone-charging options.

The 2022 Buick Enclave offered easy ingress and egress, with excellent visibility due to its large windshield and window openings. All Enclaves came standard with an eight-way power driver seat and six-way power front passenger seat, both heated and with power lumbar control. Premium and Avenir trims added four-way power lumbar with massage and second-row heated seats. The Enclave's cabin was roomy, with plenty of headroom, legroom, hip room, and shoulder room for passengers in all three rows. The third row was comfortable even for six-footers, and the second-row captain's chairs made access easy. The restyled center console featured new push-button transmission gears and a covered compartment with two cupholders. The Enclave offered ample storage, with 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 57.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 97.4 cubic feet with both rows folded. Power-folding third-row seats made accessing the cargo space easier.

Technology
2021 Volvo XC40
8/10
2022 Buick Enclave
6/10

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, introduced on the Polestar 2, while gasoline models continued with the previous system. The Android Automotive OS used Google apps, including Google Assistant and Google Maps, and allowed Android phone users to sync their personal Google accounts. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity. The standard hardware setup included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Recharge also had OTA update capability for the infotainment system and other vehicle functions. It lacked a start button, allowing drivers to simply get in and shift out of park. The related Polestar 2 would soon get a Digital Key feature, but Volvo had not confirmed it for the XC40.

The 2022 Buick Enclave featured a standard 4.2-inch driver information center, with Premium and Avenir trims getting a larger, 8-inch reconfigurable version. The Essence trim had an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as wireless phone charging. Premium and Avenir trims added navigation. The system could pair up to 10 devices, with two smartphones active simultaneously, and a built-in WiFi hotspot could handle up to four devices up to 50 feet away. The interface was familiar and easy to use, though some graphics were starting to look dated. The Premium and Avenir trims featured a 10-speaker Bose audio system, which was superior to the standard six-speaker system. Each Enclave came with a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM 360L and six USB ports—two in each row. Other standard features included a following-distance indicator, HD rear vision camera, and Teen Driver technology. Notable available features included adaptive cruise control, head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, hitch guidance with hitch view, a digital rear camera mirror, and HD surround vision.

Safety
2021 Volvo XC40
9/10
2022 Buick Enclave
7/10

The gasoline 2021 Volvo XC40 received the highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA. These ratings were not applicable to the electric XC40 Recharge, but Volvo expected it to perform well in crash tests due to a safety cage around the battery and a redesigned front crash structure. The XC40 came with a long list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, rear parking sensors, hill-start assist, and hill-descent control. Optional features included traffic-sign recognition, reverse automatic emergency braking, a driver-alertness monitor, run-off road mitigation, oncoming lane mitigation, and Volvo’s Pilot Assist driver-assistance system. The Recharge model also had Volvo’s latest sensor suite, scalable for future advanced driver aids.

The 2022 Buick Enclave made significant updates to its driver-assist and safety tech, making the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package standard on all trims. This package included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane-change alert with blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, lane-keeping assistance with lane-departure warning, rear park assist, following-distance indicator, and automatic high-beam headlights. Other standard safety items included a Safety Alert driver's seat, a rear-seat reminder system, and an HD reversing camera. Premium trim added enhanced automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a surround-view camera, head-up display, and rear pedestrian alert. The NHTSA had not published crash-test ratings for the 2022 Enclave, but it received four out of five stars for rollover resistance. The IIHS gave the Enclave the highest-possible "Good" ratings in all but one crash test, where it received an "Acceptable" score.

Cost Effectiveness
2021 Volvo XC40
7/10
2022 Buick Enclave
5/10
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