2022 Ford Expedition vs 2021 Volvo XC40

The 2021 Volvo XC40 presented a classic SUV aesthetic, characterized by its tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, aligning well with Volvo's current lineup through features like the “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and a simple oval grille. Gasoline models offered a retro touch with a white contrasting roof. The XC40 Recharge differentiated itself with a blanked-off grille, unique badging, and model-specific alloy wheels, alongside a gloss black roof and mirror caps. It also featured a Sage Green Metallic color exclusive to the model. The interior was minimalist yet premium, with real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery, creating a cohesive and upscale environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Expedition underwent several updates, including a new grille, headlights, and bumper, along with revised taillights and tailgate trim. The model lineup included various trims like XL STX, XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum, with a new Timberline trim for off-road enthusiasts. The interior boasted a redesigned dashboard with the latest Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, offering a large touchscreen display. The Expedition's cabin was spacious and comfortable, with power-adjustable, leather-wrapped seats and a heated steering wheel, making it a favorite for those seeking comfort and technology.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a diverse powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline variants featured a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base FWD T4 produced 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD T5 delivered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model, sharing its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasted 402 hp and 486 lb-ft, powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The Recharge accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, while the T5 and T4 took 6.1 and 8.1 seconds, respectively. All versions were electronically limited to 112 mph, emphasizing safety over speed. The Recharge also offered a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, with a high-output version available in certain trims. The engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering a towing capacity between 9,000 and 9,300 pounds. The Expedition's fuel economy ranged from 17 to 19 mpg in combined driving, with an observed 16.2 mpg during testing. The SUV's driving dynamics were enhanced by a sport-tuned suspension in the Stealth Edition, though the ride quality could be harsh due to the 22-inch wheels. Despite its size, the Expedition was easy to park, thanks to excellent visibility and parking sensors.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, while not particularly spacious, offered clever storage solutions to compensate for its limited interior space. The center console featured a removable trash bin, and the glovebox door included a bag hook. The Harman Kardon audio system's speakers were moved to the dashboard, allowing for larger door bins. However, the XC40 Recharge had less legroom and cargo space compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The gasoline XC40 was more competitive in terms of interior space against rivals like the Audi Q3 and BMW X1.

The 2022 Ford Expedition excelled in interior space and comfort, with power running boards for easy access. The cabin offered ample room for passengers, with power-adjustable, leather-wrapped seats and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain’s chairs provided plenty of legroom, while the third-row seat offered power recline and USB ports. Cargo space was generous, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 104.6 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The Expedition Max variant offered even more cargo capacity, making it ideal for families and road trips.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, integrating Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with OTA update capability for software-controlled vehicle functions. The gasoline models retained the previous infotainment system, with conventional Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Recharge model also lacked a start button, allowing drivers to simply shift out of park to start the vehicle.

The 2022 Ford Expedition introduced the Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, with a 12-inch or optional 15.5-inch touchscreen. Both systems offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, FordPass Connect, and a connected navigation system. Higher trims included features like SiriusXM satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and premium Bang & Olufsen sound systems. The Sync 4A system had some quirks, such as accidental activation of the defroster function and issues with Apple CarPlay connectivity. The Expedition also offered an upgraded rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV and Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 for easier trailer maneuvering.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received top safety ratings, with a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA for the gasoline model. The XC40 came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included traffic-sign recognition and Volvo’s Pilot Assist driver-assistance system. The Recharge model featured Volvo’s latest sensor suite, capable of future updates for advanced driver aids.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered a range of safety features through the Ford Co-Pilot360 collections. The standard package included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and intersection assist, while the Co-Pilot Assist 2.0 package included a surround-view camera system and rear automatic emergency braking. The Expedition also offered Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving technology for approved highways, though the lane-centering assist system had some issues with accuracy and reliability.