2022 Genesis GV70 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 design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, while the interior boasted a "Scandinavian Modern" aesthetic with natural wood and metal trim. Volvo's commitment to sustainability was evident in its leather-free initiative, offering a tailored wool blend upholstery option alongside traditional Nappa leather.

The 2022 Genesis GV70, while inheriting some styling elements from other Genesis models, stood out with its unique appearance. It featured quad LED strips for headlights and taillights, a large shield-shaped grille, and a sloping roofline that gave it a fastback look. The Sport Prestige model added character with unique styling features, including 21-inch wheels and giant round exhaust outlets. Inside, the GV70's elliptical-themed interior was inspired by an airplane wing's cross-section, with a minimalistic design and a rotary gear selector. The GV70 offered a wide array of interior color options and luxurious materials, although base models came with leatherette seats.

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 front-wheel drive (FWD) with optional all-wheel drive (AWD), while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. The XC90's fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 FWD achieving 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway, and the T8 offering 27 mpg combined on gas and 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range. The driving experience was superb, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came with two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbo-four producing 300 horsepower and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 generating 375 hp. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The GV70 included a rear electronic limited-slip differential and launch control, emphasizing its sporty character. The Sport+ drive mode enhanced throttle response and transmission behavior, but the chassis lacked the sharpness of some competitors. The GV70 excelled in highway cruising, though the ride was firm with 21-inch wheels, and the steering lacked precision for spirited driving.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults would find it cramped. The XC90 provided 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. It could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior was spacious and airy, with ample storage and a standard panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed well, even in extreme heat.

The 2022 Genesis GV70's interior space was mid-pack for the segment, offering adequate legroom and good rear-seat visibility. Cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 56.9 cubic feet with them folded. The interior design compromised storage space, with a slim center console and thin door pockets. The front seats in the Sport Prestige model were heavily bolstered, offering heating, ventilation, massage, and posture-assist functions, though some controls were buried in touchscreen menus.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system was intuitive but occasionally glitchy. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display enhanced driver awareness. The XC90 came with a standard Harman Kardon sound system, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins upgrade. USB ports and a WiFi hotspot were included, along with the Volvo Care smartphone app for remote vehicle controls.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 boasted a 14.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, featuring a tile-based layout and crisp graphics. A glass rotary controller added functionality, while higher trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 3D effect. The GV70 included a digital-key feature and a fingerprint scanner for starting the car. Genesis Connected Services provided remote camera activation and other features, free for three years.

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

The 2022 Genesis GV70, as a new model, lacked crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. It came standard with safety features like lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and Highway Driving Assist. Optional features included Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane-change functionality. The GV70's Highway Driving Assist impressed with smooth control inputs but struggled with tight curves.