2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo's boxy past, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while moving into the luxury class. The XC90, launched as a 2016 model, was Volvo's flagship SUV, built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. It featured a sleek, forward-tilted profile, pronounced wheel arches, and a snub nose reminiscent of the classic 245 wagon. The interior was described as "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," with natural wood and metal trim, a clear crystal gear selector handle, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a rugged, off-road-ready aesthetic with a choice between two-door and four-door models. Buyers could select from various powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler High Tide special edition, based on the four-door Sport S trim, added features like LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop, and a 1.5-inch suspension lift. The Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and plastic and rubber materials, emphasizing functionality over luxury.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version of the same engine delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor for a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft. The T5 models were front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive, while the T6 and T8 were all-wheel drive only. The T8 had an electric motor driving the rear wheels, providing a smooth and spirited driving experience with minimal body roll.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory $4,000 option, and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system was ideal for slippery conditions. The Wrangler's fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 16.8 mpg over a week of driving. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, with loud cabin noise, vague steering, and a rough ride, but it offered an immersive and adventurous experience, especially with the top and doors removed.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, depending on the configuration. The third row was suitable for children, while the second row offered easy access with a one-handed slide and fold mechanism. The XC90 provided 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. It could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, making it versatile for family trips. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a standard panoramic moonroof.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The seats were comfortable, with durable cloth upholstery, but the driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard. Visibility was mixed, with some areas requiring leaning forward to see traffic lights. The rear seat offered agreeable accommodations for two adults, but storage was limited. The Wrangler Unlimited provided 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat and 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The tailgate was heavy due to the 35-inch spare wheel, requiring caution when opening.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality with pinch, pull, and swipe gestures. However, it was occasionally glitchy and slow to respond. The system worked better with Apple CarPlay, and the XC90 also supported Android Auto. The 12.3-inch digital instrument panel was customizable, and the $1,650 Advanced package included a head-up display, 360-degree camera system, and advanced air cleaner. The standard Harman Kardon Premium Sound could be upgraded to a $3,200 Bowers & Wilkins system. The XC90 included multiple USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and the Volvo Care smartphone app.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, had a basic infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered satellite radio, connected services, and a navigation system, but the 7-inch system sufficed for most needs. The Wrangler included remote engine starting, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, and single-zone automatic climate control with a new air filtration system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, rain-sensing wipers, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, oncoming lane mitigation, and road-sign recognition. The Pilot Assist system combined several safety features for highway driving. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS for small overlap crash protection and side-impact tests. The Wrangler's headlight performance was also rated Poor or Marginal.