2023 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Hyundai Kona

The 2022 Hyundai Kona received a significant makeover, extending its length by 1.6 inches compared to the 2021 model. The updated front and rear fascias, enhanced LED lighting, and new character lines gave the Kona a more sophisticated appearance. The sporty new body lines contrasted with lower body cladding, and new alloy wheel designs rounded out the exterior changes. Inside, the instrument panel and center console were separated to emphasize a more horizontal layout, creating a wider, more spacious look. New ambient lighting and a rear USB port added convenience and sophistication.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a purposeful yet understated design. Its front end appeared stout and solid without being overly flashy, and the grille was assertive without being too large. The recognizable "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern flair. The XC90's dimensions and shape leaned toward rectilinear but were far from the boxy designs of older Volvos. Our test vehicle, an AWD Ultimate trim, featured 21-inch wheels and Platinum Gray paint with brown undertones, adding richness and depth. Inside, the XC90's design was elegant, with two-tone leather on the steering wheel, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, an Orrefors crystal shift knob, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered a variety of engines and transmissions. The SE and SEL trims featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. The N Line and Limited trims had a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 195 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed DCT. The Kona N boasted a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, paired with an N eight-speed wet DCT. Our test vehicle, a Kona N Line with the 1.6-liter turbo engine and AWD, provided more than adequate power and was enjoyable to drive. The Kona felt light yet stable, with composed handling and minimal noise levels inside the cabin.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines with mild-hybrid technology, replacing the older T5 and T6 engines. The B5 engine, with a turbocharger and 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The B6 engine, with a supercharger and turbo, produced 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency and smoothness but did not provide propulsion. The XC90 delivered a reserved yet enjoyable driving experience, with quick acceleration, a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission, and excellent brakes. The XC90 handled well despite its size, and road and wind noise were minimal.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona provided ample headroom and legroom for front-seat occupants, even with the optional sunroof. The N Line's front seats offered excellent support during spirited driving. However, rear-seat occupants faced challenges with small door openings, limited headroom, and legroom. Cargo space was tight, with 19.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Towing was not recommended.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's front seats were comfortable and elegant, but storage space for smaller items was limited. The second row was reasonably spacious but challenging to adjust. The standard seven-passenger seating could be configured to six-passenger seating with captain’s chairs for an additional cost. Access to the third row was difficult, and space was limited. The XC90 offered 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in place, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. This was less than some competitors.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona featured an 8-inch display with a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The SEL trim added SiriusXM, HD Radio, and Hyundai Blue Link. The Limited and Kona N had a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The N Line and above trims had a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and wireless device charging. Hyundai Blue Link offered remote services and was complimentary for three years.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display running Google OS, with Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant as standard features. The 12.3-inch driver information display also showed Google Maps. Natural-language recognition via Google Assistant enhanced the user experience. However, many functions were controlled through the touchscreen, which could be frustrating. The minimalist design meant fewer physical buttons, requiring more interaction with the screen.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona included standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, lane-following assistance, driver attention warning, and rear occupant alert. Available features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, Highway Drive Assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Warning. The Kona received five stars from NHTSA and "Good" ratings from IIHS, but its child-seat anchors received a "Marginal" rating.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was known for its safety, with a five-star rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist, which helped maintain distance and lane position. These features worked well even in challenging conditions, such as Boston traffic.