2022 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Ford Explorer

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 China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company underwent a transformation, developing new platforms like the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for its flagship SUV, the XC90. The 2022 model showcased a sleek and athletic profile, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, complemented by the iconic "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.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer offered a diverse lineup with eight models, including the rugged Timberline and luxurious King Ranch trims. Our test vehicle, the King Ranch, featured 4WD, a Premium Technology package, and a twin-panel sunroof, priced at $59,880. While the King Ranch had distinctive emblems and shiny wheels, it didn't visually stand out from other Explorer models. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, allowed for a long hood and rakish roofline, creating a taut, athletic appearance. Inside, the King Ranch boasted exclusive Del Rio leather seating and a mix of quality materials, though some elements hinted at the Explorer's base trim origins.

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 T8's electric motor drove the rear wheels, providing a smooth and spirited driving experience. The XC90's fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 FWD achieving up to 25 mpg combined, while the T8 offered 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range.

The 2022 Ford Explorer also featured three powertrains. The base, XLT, ST-Line, Limited, and Timberline trims came with a turbocharged 2.3-liter engine producing 300 hp, paired with a 10-speed automatic and RWD or 4WD. The hybrid option, available for the Limited and Platinum trims, combined a 3.3-liter V6 with electric power for 318 hp and 27 mpg combined. The top-tier ST, Platinum, and King Ranch trims boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 400 hp, offering robust acceleration and a towing capacity of up to 5,600 lbs. The King Ranch 4WD averaged 20.6 mpg during testing, and the Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, depending on the second-row configuration. The third row was suitable for children, with limited legroom for adults. Cargo space was generous, with up to 85.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded. The XC90's interior was spacious and airy, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof, and the air-conditioning system performed admirably during a heatwave.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. The King Ranch trim featured triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and massaging front seats. However, the third row was cramped for adults. Storage space was limited, with missed opportunities for additional compartments. The King Ranch provided 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality. While intuitive, the system was occasionally glitchy, performing better with Apple CarPlay. The XC90 included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a Bowers & Wilkins sound system upgrade. USB ports and a WiFi hotspot were standard, along with the Volvo Care app for remote vehicle control.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The King Ranch trim included FordPass Connect, a WiFi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the Sync 3 system's voice recognition was less effective, struggling with navigation and music requests. The King Ranch also featured a digital instrument display and Active Park Assist 2.0 for autonomous parking.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, equipped with features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist for highway driving. It earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star NHTSA rating, reflecting its commitment to safety.

The 2022 Ford Explorer also received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, though NHTSA ratings were incomplete. Standard safety features included Ford Co-Pilot360, with options for adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.