2022 Volvo XC60 vs 2021 Volvo XC40

2021 Volvo XC40
2021 Volvo XC40
$33,700MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Volvo XC60
2022 Volvo XC60
$42,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2021 Volvo XC40
$33,700MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Volvo XC60
$42,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$33,700

MSRP

$42,650

Average price

$26,834

Average price

$36,245

Listings

194

Listings

1221

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Powerful engine
  • Multiple powertrain options
Cons
  • Not much cargo space
  • Recharge model is expensive
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Poor value for money
  • Not much cargo space

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 Volvo XC60 Reviews Summary

The 2022 Volvo XC60 brings the Swedish automaker’s signature style and solid engineering to one of the most popular luxury SUV segments. Slotting between the XC40 and XC90 in size, the XC60 competes against crossover SUVs like the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, BMW X3, Infiniti QX50, Lexus NX, and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. With so many choices, Volvo needed to keep the XC60 fresh. So, the automaker gave it some notable updates for the 2022 model year.

The current version of the XC60, representing the model’s second generation, has been around since the 2018 model year. For 2022, it gets new mild-hybrid powertrains, mildly updated exterior styling, and the Android-based infotainment system previously seen in the electric Volvo XC40 Recharge and Polestar 2.

The reshuffled 2022 XC60 lineup includes the B5 mild hybrid with Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription trim levels, the B6 mild hybrid (which skips the base Momentum trim level), and the carryover Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid in Inscription, R-Design, and sporty Polestar Engineered guises. We spent a day driving the B6 R-Design model around New York’s Hudson Valley.

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Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 187 hp I4

Engine

2.0L 247 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

187 hp @ 4700 rpm

Horsepower

247 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG City

23

MPG City

23

MPG Highway

32

MPG Highway

30
2021 Volvo XC40
2021 Volvo XC40
$33,700MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Volvo XC60
2022 Volvo XC60
$42,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Volvo XC40
$33,700MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Volvo XC60
$42,650MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$33,700
$42,650
Average price
$26,834
$36,245
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews
4.5
4.3
Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Read full review

7.8 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
  • Stylish design
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Poor value for money
  • Not much cargo space
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.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 brings the Swedish automaker’s signature style and solid engineering to one of the most popular luxury SUV segments. Slotting between the XC40 and XC90 in size, the XC60 competes against crossover SUVs like the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, BMW X3, Infiniti QX50, Lexus NX, and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. With so many choices, Volvo needed to keep the XC60 fresh. So, the automaker gave it some notable updates for the 2022 model year.

The current version of the XC60, representing the model’s second generation, has been around since the 2018 model year. For 2022, it gets new mild-hybrid powertrains, mildly updated exterior styling, and the Android-based infotainment system previously seen in the electric Volvo XC40 Recharge and Polestar 2.

The reshuffled 2022 XC60 lineup includes the B5 mild hybrid with Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription trim levels, the B6 mild hybrid (which skips the base Momentum trim level), and the carryover Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid in Inscription, R-Design, and sporty Polestar Engineered guises. We spent a day driving the B6 R-Design model around New York’s Hudson Valley.

Video
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 187 hp I4
2.0L 247 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
187 hp @ 4700 rpm
247 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
23
23
MPG Highway
32
30
Look and feel
2021 Volvo XC40
9/10
2022 Volvo XC60
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 “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 different rear bumper, and a model-exclusive color—Sage Green Metallic. 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.

For the 2022 model year, the Volvo XC60 received subtle styling changes. A new front fascia incorporated “air blades” for a sportier appearance, and a new rear bumper hid the tailpipes. All models got new wheel designs, and the front grille was reworked to move sensors for driver-assist systems behind the heated Volvo logo. The interior remained largely unchanged, retaining its clean design with a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal clutter. The B6 R-Design test car featured aluminum mesh speaker grilles and elaborately textured seats, adding some flair. However, the interior seemed subdued compared to other Volvo models. The Inscription trim level offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Performance
2021 Volvo XC40
8/10
2022 Volvo XC60
9/10

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a three-tiered powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge at the top. The two 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 winter-ravaged roads. It also offered one-pedal driving and a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

For the 2022 model year, the XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 powertrains. Both combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system and integrated starter generator, adding 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 also featured an electric supercharger. The B5 had 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 had 295 hp and 310 lb-ft. Both used an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 offered FWD or AWD, while the B6 was AWD only. The B5 did zero to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds (6.6 seconds with FWD), and the B6 in 5.9 seconds. The XC60 encouraged calm, relaxed driving, with a quiet cabin and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension. The XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, with zero to 60 mph in 5 seconds. The Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

Form and function
2021 Volvo XC40
7/10
2022 Volvo XC60
7/10

Volvo claimed no difference in passenger or cargo space between the Recharge and gasoline XC40 models. However, the XC40 Recharge had less legroom in both front and rear seats compared to the Tesla Model Y or Ford Mustang Mach-E, and a smaller cargo area. The gasoline XC40 was more competitive on interior space compared to rivals like the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. Clever storage solutions included a removable trash bin in the center console, a bag hook in the glovebox door, and extra-large door bins due to the Harman Kardon system's speakers being moved to the dashboard. A wireless charging pad was optional, while a single USB-C port was standard. Second-row occupants didn’t get any phone-charging options.

The 2022 XC60 remained competitive in passenger space within its market segment. Front-seat headroom was above average, but rear-seat headroom was tied with the Audi Q5 for the worst. Legroom in both rows was about average. Mild-hybrid models offered 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place, and 49.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly less cargo capacity, at 21.1 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 49.3 cubic feet with the rear seats down. The XC60 offered a commanding driving position with good forward and rear visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

Technology
2021 Volvo XC40
8/10
2022 Volvo XC60
8/10

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. Android Automotive OS used Google apps like 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, with a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Recharge models also had OTA update capability and lacked a start button, instead using a key fob for entry and shifting out of park to start.

The 2022 XC60 received a tech overhaul, with a 9-inch touchscreen running the Android Automotive OS, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a built-in WiFi hotspot. A head-up display and upgraded audio systems from Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins were available. Android-specific features included Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and the Google Play Store for third-party apps. The system enabled OTA updates and promised full iPhone compatibility. The digital instrument cluster could display a map or a “Calm” setting to minimize distraction.

Safety
2021 Volvo XC40
9/10
2022 Volvo XC60
9/10

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. Standard safety features included 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 had Volvo’s latest sensor suite and scalable software for future driver aids.

The IIHS hadn’t released crash-test ratings for the 2022 XC60, but the 2021 model received the highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating. The NHTSA hadn’t published safety ratings for the 2022 XC60, but the 2021 model received a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, automatic post-collision braking, a driver-attention monitor, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert. New features for 2022 included Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. Volvo’s Pilot Assist driver-assistance system was available as an option.

Cost Effectiveness
2021 Volvo XC40
7/10
2022 Volvo XC60
6/10

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 Volvo XC60 scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Volvo XC40 is the recommended choice for its higher overall rating and well-rounded features.

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 Volvo XC60 scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Volvo XC40 is the recommended choice for its higher overall rating and well-rounded features.

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By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

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