2022 Acura RDX vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, leading to the current XC90, which launched in 2016 as the flagship SUV on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. The XC90's exterior boasted a sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches, with a nod to its heritage through the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights. Inside, the XC90 exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trims, with options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2022 Acura RDX, meanwhile, offered subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, with updates to the grille surround, bumpers, and wheel designs. The limited-production PMC Edition returned with exclusive paint and interior options. The RDX lineup included various packages, with the A-Spec Advance package providing high-quality materials and a quieter interior. Despite some controversial design elements, the RDX maintained a stylish flair. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, with a focus on comfort and convenience, though the back seat lacked support for adults.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp. The T5 models were available in FWD or AWD, while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model, which provided spirited acceleration and a fun driving experience.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The RDX's driving dynamics were enhanced by Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system, which provided excellent torque-vectoring capabilities. The RDX's adaptive-damping suspension and Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered distinct driving modes, contributing to a smoother and more responsive ride. Despite its enjoyable driving character, the RDX did not qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, lacking the thrill of some German competitors.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row, which was best suited for children. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof enhancing the airy feel. The XC90's air-conditioning system performed well even in extreme heat, making it a reliable choice for various climates.

The 2022 Acura RDX, though a compact SUV, provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior featured a sporty design, but the control layout required some acclimation. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, while the back seat lacked support for adults. The RDX offered 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and included a power liftgate with available hands-free operation.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, though it was occasionally glitchy. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The XC90 came with a Harman Kardon sound system, with an available Bowers & Wilkins upgrade. USB ports and a WiFi hotspot were standard, along with the Volvo Care app for remote vehicle control.

The 2022 Acura RDX's TTI infotainment system paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller, which required a learning curve. The RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX offered three sound systems, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system available in higher trims. A head-up display was included in the Advance and A-Spec Advance packages.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, with features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Acura RDX included structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety and new features like a rear seatbelt reminder. The AcuraWatch suite added pedestrian detection and blind-spot monitoring. The RDX received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, though some driver-assist systems were less refined than competitors.