Volvo XC90 vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2025 Volvo XC90 maintained its reputation for timeless elegance with a refresh that subtly modernized its design. The signature "Thor’s Hammer" headlights were enhanced with a more defined outline, giving them a stronger presence without losing their iconic identity. The grille, while retaining its shape, was updated with diagonal, slightly convex slats, creating a sophisticated woven appearance. The B5 AWD mild hybrid and T8 eAWD plug-in hybrid models we drove showcased Volvo's commitment to classic elegance with their "Bright" exterior theme and large wheels that filled the arches beautifully. Inside, the XC90 continued to offer a comfortable and understated space, with updates like a more symmetrical center console and a standout Orrefors crystal shift knob. The interior materials were characteristically Swedish, with options like quilted Nordico, perforated nappa leather, and a new herringbone weave textile made from recycled polyester, which provided a cozy feel in cooler climates.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt retained a familiar look with slight styling changes, presenting a more conventional front end for an EV. The single body style combined elements of a large hatchback and a subcompact SUV, offering a tall and narrow stance that prioritized utility and interior space. The RS model added gloss black exterior trim for a touch of flair. Inside, the Bolt underwent a more significant makeover, featuring a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The push-button gear selector was relocated to the steering column, freeing up center console space. While the cabin was dominated by hard plastic surfaces, the RS trim offered Evotex synthetic leather with red stitching for a sportier feel. Despite the budget feel, the Bolt provided adequate storage and a practical layout, with a flat floor and ample headroom in the rear seats.

The 2025 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all with standard AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine delivered 247 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, providing improved fuel economy and smoother power delivery. The B6 variant added turbo- and e-supercharging, increasing output to 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined a four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and an 18.8-kWh battery, achieving a total system output of 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, with up to 33 miles of pure-electric range. The XC90's suspension featured Frequency Selective Damping technology, enhancing ride comfort and stability.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, reducing costs and reliance on rare earth minerals. Its motor, sourced from the Chevy Equinox EV, produced 210 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque, with 0-60 mph acceleration in the low seven-second range. The Bolt offered one-pedal driving with adjustable brake regeneration levels, providing immediate response to pedal inputs. The ride was firm but not overly stiff, and the Bolt's low center of gravity contributed to its agility on curvy roads. The EPA estimated a range of up to 262 miles on a full charge, with a Tesla-derived NACS charge port standard on all models, allowing for faster charging speeds.

The 2025 Volvo XC90's redesigned center console improved practicality, relocating the wireless charging pad to a more convenient position below the center stack. This change enhanced small-item storage and kept charging phones out of direct sunlight. The XC90 offered standard USB-C charge ports for the first and second rows, while third-row occupants had dedicated cupholders and a panoramic roof view. The XC90's three-row seating provided competitive space, with 36.3 inches of headroom and 31.9 inches of legroom in the third row, making it a strong contender among midsize three-row SUVs.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt provided an upright driving position with ample space for larger occupants. While taller drivers might have wished for more telescoping extension from the steering wheel, the rear seats offered plenty of headroom and thigh support. The Bolt's flat floor minimized the penalty for center-seat passengers. With 16.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, the Bolt offered adequate capacity for most users. The cargo area featured a large bin beneath the floor, and the rear seatbacks folded flat for additional space. Up front, the Bolt provided ample storage for personal items, with a large bin, floor tray, and deep center armrest bin.

The 2025 Volvo XC90 featured a larger touchscreen infotainment system with a new user interface, emphasizing a fewer-taps approach for easier access to key functions. The system was Android-based with Google Built-In, but Apple CarPlay connectivity was standard and seamless. The XC90 offered a 10-speaker High Performance stereo as standard, with options for a 14-speaker Harman Kardon system or a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system, providing audiophiles with excellent sound quality.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt came with an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen, running on a Google-based operating system. While Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto were not supported, Bluetooth pairing allowed for personal music library access. The optional Technology package added features like a surround-view camera system and a wireless charging pad. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with logical menus and quick responses. The Bolt's navigation system helped drivers find charging stations and preconditioned the battery for optimal charging rates. Vehicle-to-load charging capability allowed the Bolt to serve as a backup power source for a home.

The 2025 Volvo XC90 had not yet been crash-tested, but its predecessors earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. The XC90 featured standard advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping aid, and blind-spot information. While it lacked a hands-free highway-driving system, the XC90 prioritized functional safety features.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt had not been crash-tested, but it was expected to achieve high scores based on its platform. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system and other safety enhancements. GM's Super Cruise hands-free highway driving system was available for an additional cost.