2023 BMW X7 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 moving into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 featured a sleek and athletic profile, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. Its interior was described as "Scandinavian Modern" with natural wood and metal trim, offering a choice between Nappa leather and a tailored wool blend upholstery. The XC90's design and materials underscored its luxury status, with exquisite details like a crystal gear selector handle.

In contrast, the 2023 BMW X7 underwent a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bolder design inspired by the BMW 7 Series sedan. The front end featured LED accent lights and a controversial oversized kidney grille, while the sides and rear remained largely unchanged. The interior received a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The X7's interior materials were of high quality, with options for leather upholstery and Sensafin synthetic substitutes. Despite some criticism of the new front-end styling, the interior revisions were praised for their modern and elegant appearance.

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 delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining a gasoline engine and electric motor for a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft. 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 driving experience was noted for its minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, particularly in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup began with the xDrive40i model, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with a similar hybrid system, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 offered potent acceleration and well-managed body roll, though it was not considered sporty. The ride was slightly firmer than some luxury SUVs, reflecting BMW's focus on driver engagement.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was available in six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. The third row was suitable for children but lacked legroom for adults. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 85.7 cubic feet with both rows down. It could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior featured ample storage, comfortable seating, and a panoramic moonroof, with an effective air-conditioning system tested during a heat wave.

The 2023 BMW X7 provided ample space, with the second row accommodating taller passengers and a large sunroof enhancing the airy feel. Access to the third row was facilitated by a power-operated middle row, though the seat cushion was lower, reducing thigh support. The X7 offered 12.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with the third row stowed, and 90.4 cubic feet with the middle seats folded. The split tailgate and adjustable suspension aided loading, while front-seat passengers enjoyed adequate storage space.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality. However, it was occasionally glitchy and slow, performing better with Apple CarPlay. The system included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The XC90 came with a standard Harman Kardon sound system, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins upgrade. It included USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and the Volvo Care smartphone app for remote vehicle controls.

The 2023 BMW X7 introduced the latest iDrive infotainment system, which was criticized for eliminating physical buttons and complicating basic functions. Voice commands were available but interrupted audio playback. The system's menu structure was less intuitive, and more physical buttons were desired for frequently used features.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. The Pilot Assist system combined several features for highway driving assistance. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 BMW X7's crash test results were unavailable, but it offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive headlights. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, with options for adaptive cruise control and highway driving assist. The safety features performed reliably during testing.