2021 INFINITI QX50 vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while introducing a more modern and characterful appearance. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but with softer lines, increased chrome detailing, and distinctive LED headlights featuring "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most visually striking, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced Swedish minimalism with high-quality materials, including matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery, creating a refined and thoughtfully arranged interior.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 stood out in the luxury compact crossover segment with its distinctive design and engineering. Its large honeycomb grille and athletic hood gave it a sporty appearance, complemented by a unique chrome strip at the rear. The panoramic moonroof enhanced the cabin's airy feel, although visibility was slightly compromised by thick B-pillars and a short rear window. The Sensory AWD model featured 20-inch alloy wheels and a well-appointed interior with soft-touch materials, aluminum trim, and heated and cooled front seats. The QX50's cabin was user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a mix of traditional and modern elements, such as a gear shift lever and push-button park.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model delivered 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque with a turbocharged engine. The T6 variant added a supercharger, boosting output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, or Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors for a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. While the XC90 provided ample power, the small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 featured a single powertrain option: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), producing 268 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The QX50's VC-Turbo engine adjusted the compression ratio for a balance of power and efficiency, though its operation might not be fully appreciated by all buyers. The CVT, with simulated shift points, provided a familiar driving experience. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The QX50's drive mode selector offered Standard, Sport, Eco, and Personal modes, with Sport mode enhancing responsiveness and Eco mode prioritizing fuel efficiency.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom across its three rows. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. An optional power moonroof and upright roof profile contributed to a spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, but storage space was limited. Cargo capacity was 11.2 cubic feet with all seats up, expanding to 64.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. A hands-free power tailgate was standard.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 offered a spacious interior with ample hip, shoulder, and headroom, even with the panoramic moonroof. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed 38.7 inches of legroom, and sliding second-row seats allowed for flexible space management. The cargo area provided 31.1 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 64.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The optional Cargo package added practical features for storage. The QX50 included numerous storage options, cupholders, and charging ports, enhancing its practicality.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. A WiFi hotspot and USB ports were standard, with a Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display available. The touchscreen was user-friendly, though some menu text was difficult to read. A wireless charging pad was added for 2021, but its size limited compatibility with larger phones.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 came with the InTouch infotainment system, featuring dual display screens and voice recognition. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and a 16-speaker Bose audio system were standard. The system was easy to use, with seamless smartphone integration. The QX50 also included an Around View Monitor and ProPilot Assist, offering advanced driver assistance features. The navigation system was less intuitive than CarPlay, but overall, the technology package was comprehensive and user-friendly.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered extensive standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane centering.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 boasted a robust suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot warning, forward-collision warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The NHTSA gave it four stars for rollover resistance, while the IIHS awarded it Good ratings for crash protection and a Superior rating for front crash prevention. The QX50's safety systems were reliable, providing gentle alerts without false warnings.