2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while adding a touch of modern flair. The XC90 retained its recognizable boxy profile and blunt front end, but introduced softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced Swedish minimalism with high-quality materials like matte-finish wood and optional wool upholstery, creating a refined yet understated cabin atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly in its Wilderness trim, embraced a rugged and functional aesthetic. The Wilderness model featured a suspension lift, higher ride height, and extensive protective cladding, giving it a distinctive "overlanding" look. Inside, the Forester prioritized practicality with water-repellant StarTex simulated leather upholstery and all-weather floor mats. The interior emphasized function over form, with hard plastic and soft surfaces combining to create a cabin that felt durable and purposeful. The Forester's interior was designed to withstand the elements, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered a range of powertrains 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, while the T6 added a supercharger for a total of 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 output of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. Despite the impressive power figures, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility, and the plug-in hybrid's electric-only mode was limited to low speeds. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a respectable towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. All Foresters came with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive, with the Wilderness model featuring a design that increased initial torque supply by 25%. The Forester Wilderness doubled its towing capacity to 3,000 pounds and achieved an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in combined driving. While the Forester's engine was adequate at sea level, it felt sluggish at higher altitudes. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and included SI-Drive for a sportier response. The Forester's dual-function X-Mode system enhanced off-road capability, and the Wilderness trim's longer suspension and all-terrain tires improved ground clearance and handling on rough terrain.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered a choice between six-seat and seven-seat configurations, with headroom and legroom being average for the segment. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The XC90's interior felt spacious, thanks to an optional power moonroof and upright roof profile. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, but lacked a power-adjustable steering wheel. Cargo space was limited, with 11.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 34.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and 64.1 cubic feet with both rows down. A hands-free power tailgate was available.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The StarTex upholstery was water-resistant, and the Wilderness trim included all-weather floor mats and a rubber cargo mat. The Forester's upgraded roof rails accommodated a three-person roof tent. Comfort levels were high, with excellent visibility and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet without the sunroof and 26.9 cubic feet with it, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Forester's squared-off cargo area and new ceiling cargo hooks added 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 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display were available. The touchscreen was user-friendly, but the text was difficult to read while driving. The wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and only second-row USB-C ports were available.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Starlink connected services. Higher trims offered an 8-inch screen, navigation, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Wilderness trim included a 180-degree forward-view camera. The PIN Code Access feature allowed keyless entry, and the voice recognition system was hit-or-miss.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane centering.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced EyeSight 4.0, with improved camera-based technology and a new Automatic Emergency Steering system. It included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA and was expected to retain its "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS. The Touring trim featured DriverFocus, a facial recognition technology for monitoring drowsiness and distraction.