2022 Mazda CX-30 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 marked by a poised stance, sleek roofline, and pronounced wheel arches, exuding athleticism. Its interior was a testament to "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trim, with options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, was styled as a downsized version of the CX-5, sharing its platform with the Mazda3. It featured an upright grille and smooth fenders, with a notably raked windshield that could distort the view for taller drivers. The cabin was comfortable and quiet, with a blend of conventional and digital displays. However, the infotainment system, controlled by a rotary dial, had a steep learning curve. The CX-30 offered various trim levels, each adding features like alloy wheels, climate control, and leather upholstery, culminating in the Turbo Premium Plus model with advanced driver assistance features.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft. The T5 models were available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. The T8's electric motor drove the rear wheels, providing a smooth driving experience with minimal body roll. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 FWD achieving up to 25 mpg combined, and the T8 offering 55 MPGe with an 18-mile electric range.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 came with a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The upgraded turbocharged version delivered 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. Power was sent to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. The CX-30's Sport mode enhanced throttle response and shift mapping, making it lively and engaging. The steering was well-weighted, with quick turn-in and minimal body roll, though the ride could be rough over uneven surfaces.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row, suitable for children. Cargo space was generous, with up to 85.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded. The XC90 could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior was spacious and airy, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof, and the air-conditioning system performed well even in extreme heat.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided 45.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 20.2 cubic feet with them in use. The Turbo Premium Plus model featured a power rear liftgate. The front seats had a sliding center console cover, which could get stuck when the rear seats were folded. Rear seat headroom was adequate for short-to-medium trips, though longer journeys might be less comfortable.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, though it was occasionally slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were supported, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system. The XC90 included multiple USB ports and a WiFi hotspot.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system was controlled by a rotary dial, lacking touch functionality. This setup, inspired by luxury systems like BMW's iDrive, was not user-friendly, especially for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system required a learning curve, and switching between presets was cumbersome. The CX-30's elegant dash design was marred by this usability issue.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was equipped with numerous safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Volvo's Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 came with standard driver-assistance features like forward collision avoidance and lane-keeping assist. The Turbo Premium Plus model added blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, and a head-up display. The CX-30 earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.