2022 Buick Encore GX vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was a compact SUV that closely resembled its sibling, the Encore. Both models featured Buick's signature trapezoidal "waterfall" grille, high beltline, and similar headlight and front fascia designs. The Encore GX, however, had a slightly longer wheelbase and additional length, making it appear less tall and stubby. The optional ST (Sport Touring) appearance package added a sporty flair with body-color moldings, custom grille, sport bumpers, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and leather seats on higher trims, though it wasn't truly premium. The controls were straightforward, and the heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel was well-sized, despite some cumbersome rotary toggles.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution from Volvo's boxy past, embracing a sleek, upscale design. The XC90's body had a forward-tilted stance, pronounced wheel arches, and a snub nose reminiscent of classic Volvo wagons. The "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights added a touch of Swedish heritage. Inside, the XC90 exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" with natural wood and metal trim, a crystal gear selector, and a sliding wood tambor cover. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, though Nappa leather was still available. The cabin was airy and spacious, with a standard panoramic moonroof enhancing the luxurious feel.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 1.2-liter producing 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter generating 155 hp. The 1.2-liter engine was standard on the Preferred and Select trims, while the 1.3-liter was standard on the top Essence trim and optional on the lower trims. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available. FWD models used a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while AWD models had a nine-speed automatic. The 1.3-liter turbo engine and CVT combination in our test vehicle provided adequate power, though it was a bit buzzy. The ride was noisier than expected, and the handling was uninspiring. The Encore GX's off-road capabilities were limited, suitable only for light gravel and dirt paths.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 hp, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version of the same engine generating 316 hp, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining the supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor for a total of 455 hp. The T5 was available in FWD and AWD, while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. All models used an eight-speed automatic transmission. The T8's electric motor provided early torque, eliminating turbo lag and smoothing power delivery. The XC90 handled like a smaller SUV, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration in the T8 Inscription extended range model. Fuel economy varied, with the T8 offering up to 66 MPGe and an EV range of up to 36 miles.

Despite its small size, the 2022 Buick Encore GX provided a comfortable and easy-to-live-with experience. Ingress and egress were effortless, and controls were clearly marked. Front-seat headroom and legroom were adequate, though rear-seat knee room was tight. Cargo space measured 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The two-level cargo floor and optional hands-free power liftgate added convenience.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. The third row was suitable for children but cramped for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 85.7 cubic feet with both rows folded. The XC90 could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior featured ample storage, comfortable seating, and a standard panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed well even in extreme heat, making the XC90 a comfortable choice year-round.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, WiFi hotspot, USB ports, OnStar, and SiriusXM. Navigation was available on higher trims, along with Amazon Alexa capability. The Advanced Technology package added HD surround vision, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Convenience package included automatic parking assist, wireless phone charging, and rain-sensing wipers. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive app layouts and efficient voice recognition.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. The system supported familiar smartphone gestures but was occasionally slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The Advanced package included a 360-degree camera system and an advanced air cleaner. The standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system. The XC90 also had multiple USB ports and a WiFi hotspot, with the Volvo Care app providing remote vehicle controls.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came with standard driver assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system were also included. The Encore GX earned five stars from the NHTSA for overall crash protection and "Good" ratings from the IIHS in all crash tests. The top Essence trim received an "Acceptable" headlight rating, while lower trims received a "Marginal" rating. The Encore GX also received "Superior" ratings for front crash prevention.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. The Pilot Assist system combined several safety features for semi-autonomous driving on highways. The XC90 earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.