2022 Ford Bronco vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, moving away from its traditionally conservative styling. This model retained the brand's signature boxy profile and blunt front end but introduced softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights. The XC90's design was a blend of traditional Volvo elements with modern touches, offering a more characterful appearance while maintaining its recognizable identity. The interior embraced "Swedish minimalism," featuring high-quality materials like matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery, creating a refined yet understated cabin environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Bronco embraced a rugged, retro-inspired design that resonated with off-road enthusiasts. Its squared-off styling was not just for aesthetics but also contributed to its spacious interior. The Bronco's design was unapologetically utilitarian, with features like removable fender flares, a full-size spare tire mounted on the tailgate, and modular construction for easy customization. Inside, the Bronco continued its utilitarian theme with marine-grade vinyl upholstery, sealed switches, and drain plugs for easy cleaning after off-road adventures. Despite its rugged appearance, the Bronco incorporated modern technology, including a digital instrument panel and a large infotainment touchscreen, enhancing its appeal to a broad audience.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centered around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, boosting output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. While the XC90 provided ample power, its small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 options. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a quiet cabin, but its towing capacity was limited to 5,000 pounds.

The 2022 Ford Bronco came with a choice of two engines: a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder producing 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, and an optional turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 with 330 hp and 415 lb-ft. A seven-speed manual transmission was available for the four-cylinder, featuring a crawl gear for low-speed torque, while a 10-speed automatic was standard for the V6. All Broncos included four-wheel drive and an electronic two-speed transfer case. The Bronco excelled in off-road performance, with models like the Everglades conquering challenging terrains effortlessly. On-road, the Bronco offered a smoother ride and better handling than its direct rival, the Jeep Wrangler, making it a versatile choice for both off-road and highway driving.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six- 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. The interior felt spacious due to an optional power moonroof and the XC90's upright roof profile. Storage space was limited, with a shallow center console and minimal storage options. Cargo capacity was near the bottom of the segment, with 11.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 34.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and 64.1 cubic feet with all seats down. A hands-free power tailgate was a convenient feature.

The 2022 Ford Bronco's boxy design maximized interior space, offering ample headroom and legroom. Accessing the rear seats in the two-door model required some maneuvering, but the four-door version provided easier access. Cargo capacity varied by model and roof type, with the two-door hard top offering 22.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 52.3 cubic feet with them folded. The four-door hard top increased capacity to 35.6 cubic feet and 77.6 cubic feet, respectively. Clever storage solutions included netted door pockets, a large armrest bin, and accessory rails for securing items. The Bronco's utility was further enhanced by external hard mounting points for racks and light bars.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, known for its simplicity and functionality. It included a 9-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. Optional features included a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a head-up display. The touchscreen was user-friendly, but the text and typeface made reading menus challenging while driving. The wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and the lack of front USB-C ports was a drawback.

The 2022 Ford Bronco integrated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities while keeping the driver engaged. The G.O.A.T. modes optimized drivetrain and chassis settings for specific terrains, and a forward-looking trail camera provided visibility over obstacles. The Sync 4 infotainment system offered quick responses, sharp graphics, and off-road apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless charging pad. The Bronco's technology features were well-suited for both off-road adventures and everyday use.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "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 a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, and Volvo's Pilot Assist driver aid, which combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centering.

The 2022 Ford Bronco included standard safety features like hill-start assist, hill descent control, and trailer sway control. Optional packages added features such as frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA gave the four-door Bronco four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection. The IIHS awarded it "Good" scores in frontal, side, and roof strength tests.