2022 Honda Odyssey vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Honda Odyssey was often recommended for families due to its practical features. Its sliding side doors made loading toddlers into rear-facing seats easier, and its comfortable third-row seat accommodated additional passengers like grandparents without hassle. The Odyssey also offered significant cargo space, rivaling that of a Chevrolet Suburban when the third-row seat was folded down and the second-row seats were removed. Despite its practical design, the Odyssey's image as a minivan deterred some buyers, although it did have a sense of style, especially in the Elite trim with its dark gray 19-inch aluminum wheels.

The 2022 Volvo XC90, on the other hand, showcased a sleek and modern design, moving away from Volvo's boxy past. Its body appeared ready to launch forward, with a long, sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The interior was described as "Scandinavian Modern" with natural wood and metal trim, and luxurious details like a clear crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, although Nappa leather was still available for those who preferred it. The XC90's interior was both stylish and functional, making it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It was front-wheel drive only, with an EPA fuel economy estimate of 22 mpg in combined driving. During a test drive in Southern California, the Odyssey averaged 22.6 mpg. While the Odyssey was enjoyable to drive, with quick acceleration and responsive handling, its brakes tended to overheat on long descents, leading to pedal vibration and an audible grumble.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain options. The T5 model had a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 model added a supercharger, boosting output to 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. The T5 was available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while the T6 and T8 were all-wheel drive only. The T8 had an EPA rating of 27 mpg combined on gas and 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range. The XC90 handled like a smaller SUV, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, making it fun to drive.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey provided easy access with wide-opening doors and a low step-in height. Inside, the Odyssey Elite featured quality leather seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, and numerous storage spaces. The second-row Magic Slide seats allowed for flexible configurations, making it easier to tend to children or create a pass-through to the third row. The third-row seat was comfortable for adults, and the Odyssey offered 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind it. Folding the third-row seat increased cargo space to 88.8 cubic feet, and removing the second-row seats expanded it to 144.9 cubic feet.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 came in six- and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. The third row was suitable for children but lacked legroom for adults. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third 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, making it a pleasant environment for family trips.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey Elite was equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto starting with the EX trim. The Touring trim added navigation and HondaLink connected services, including WiFi hotspot access. The CabinWatch and CabinTalk systems allowed the driver to monitor and communicate with rear-seat passengers. The rear-seat entertainment system included a 10.2-inch display, but it was considered outdated. The Elite trim added an 11-speaker premium audio system and a wireless charging pad. Overall, the Odyssey's infotainment system was functional but in need of an upgrade.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. The system supported familiar smartphone gestures but was sometimes slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel provided customizable information. The Advanced package included a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. The standard Harman Kardon audio system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system for superior sound quality. The XC90 also included multiple USB ports and a WiFi hotspot, making it a tech-savvy choice.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey came standard with Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. Additional features included automatic high-beam headlights and a rear-seat reminder system. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available starting with the EX trim. The Odyssey earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was equipped with a comprehensive list of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, rain-sensing wipers, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. Volvo's Pilot Assist system combined several safety features to provide semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 received a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.