2022 Volvo XC60 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent a series of subtle styling changes that aimed at elevating its sporty appearance while maintaining the classy feel the brand is known for. The exterior featured a new front fascia, incorporating “air blades” on either side of the grille, adding a hint of sportiness. Additionally, the redesigned rear bumper concealed the tailpipes, and new wheel designs were introduced across all models. The front grille was reworked to house sensors for driver-assist systems behind the heated Volvo logo, ensuring functionality in cold weather.

Inside, the XC60 retained its elegant, minimalist design, marked by a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal clutter. The B6 R-Design variant showcased aluminum mesh speaker grilles and uniquely textured seats that provided a touch of flair. However, the overall interior ambiance remained relatively subdued, especially when compared to other Volvo models, except for the Inscription trim level, which offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel as standard.

On the flip side, the 2022 Volvo XC90 made a bold statement with its poised, forward-leaning stance and long, sleek roofline. The pronounced wheel arches gave the SUV an athletic aura, while the snub nose recalled the upright grille of classic Volvo models. Superior fit and finish, along with the LED headlights named "Thor's Hammer," added a touch of whimsical Swedish heritage to the mix.

The XC90’s interior dripped with "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" aesthetics, incorporating natural wood and metal trim for an authentic feel. Notable features included a sliding wood tambour cover on the center console and a clear crystal gear selector handle, stressing the luxury element. While aiming for a leather-free future, Volvo still offered Nappa leather upholstery for those seeking ventilated front seats. The option of tailored wool blend upholstery provided a sustainable yet unconventional choice for those willing to veer away from traditional leather.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 replaced its previous T5 and T6 powertrains with new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, respectively. Both powertrains combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system, delivering boosts of 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 powertrain gained an additional electric supercharger, enhancing its performance.

The XC60 B5 managed 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 churned out 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Both variants featured an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 offered a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), whereas the B6 came exclusively with AWD. The AWD-enhanced XC60 B6 claimed to hit 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds.

The XC60 also came in a plug-in hybrid variant named the XC60 Recharge, which boasted 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds. Those who wanted a bit more performance could opt for the Polestar Engineered version, which delivered 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, ensuring a thrilling 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds.

In comparison, the 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three distinct powertrains. The T5 models featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 250 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 models upgraded to a supercharged and turbocharged version of the same engine, providing 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The top-tier T8 models packed a hybrid powertrain that combined a supercharged/turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, boosting output to a remarkable 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque.

The XC90 used an eight-speed automatic transmission across all powertrains. The T5 models came with FWD, with AWD as an option, whereas the T6 and T8 models were exclusively AWD. The hybrid XC90 T8 impressed with its seamless integration of electric motor torque for spirited acceleration, all while offering 55 MPGe and an EV range of up to 36 miles.

The interior space of the 2022 Volvo XC60 remained unchanged, delivering competitive passenger space with above-average front-seat headroom but slightly restricted rear-seat headroom. Legroom in both rows was about average. Cargo capacity for mild-hybrid powertrains stood at 21.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 49.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly reduced cargo space, offering 21.1 cubic feet and 49.3 cubic feet respectively.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 offered more versatility with its six- or seven-passenger configurations. The second-row captain's chairs made for easy access to the third row, although the last row was more suitable for children. The XC90 boasted 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a generous 85.7 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. Additionally, the XC90 could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds based on its configuration.

The XC90 also excelled in storage solutions within the cabin, with ample door pockets, seatback pockets, and console storage. Its air-conditioning performance was notably impressive, even during severe heat waves and high humidity, thus proving indispensable during summer months.

For the 2022 model year, the Volvo XC60 received a tech upgrade with a 9-inch touchscreen now running on the Android Automotive operating system. This included features like Google Assistant, Google Maps, and access to third-party apps via the Google Play Store. The system was user-friendly with Android-specific features, although Apple users could still enjoy full compatibility despite lacking the extended functionalities. The digital instrument cluster, configured to display maps between the speedometer and tachometer, offered a "Calm" setting to reduce distractions.

The XC90's Sensus infotainment system, although revolutionary for its time, showed signs of lag during our tests. It featured a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen that was easy to navigate, especially with familiar smartphone gestures like pinch and swipe. Still, the interface performed better with Apple CarPlay. This system could also pair with Android Auto for a seamless user experience.

Standard technology in the XC90 included Harman Kardon Premium Sound, with an option to upgrade to a $3,200 Bowers & Wilkins sound system, noted for its intricate surround sound capabilities. Additional tech features like a 360-degree surround-view camera and head-up display came in the optional $1,650 Advanced package, aiming to enhance driver awareness and safety.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 carried over its strong safety reputation, primarily based on its 2021 accolades. Standard safety features ranged from forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking to more advanced systems like lane-keep assist and traffic-sign recognition. The SUV boasted features like a Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. Volvo’s Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and automated lane centering, offered advanced highway driving assistance although it no longer stood out among competitors.

Similarly, the 2022 Volvo XC90 built on Volvo's sterling safety heritage, harmonizing it with modern technology. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping aid. The Pilot Assist system, integrated into the XC90, provided an extra layer of semi-autonomous driving support on highways. Receiving both the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, the XC90 demonstrated its prowess in keeping occupants safe.