2022 Volvo XC40 vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, particularly in the A-Spec trim, presented a visually appealing design that balanced sportiness with subtlety. It avoided excessive blacked-out trim or aggressive performance cues, instead opting for a refined look that suggested athleticism without overpromising on performance. The RDX was not designed for off-roading, as evidenced by the absence of oversized skid plates or fender flares, emphasizing its role as a daily driver and road-trip companion. The A-Spec trim, positioned in the middle of the RDX's hierarchy, offered a sporty interior with features like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting, enhancing the overall sporty aesthetic.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge maintained a design closely aligned with its internal-combustion counterparts, subtly guiding consumers towards electric vehicles without drastic changes. The XC40 Recharge's exterior was nearly identical to the gasoline version, with minor differences like a solid panel grill and unique badging. The interior showcased Volvo's Scandinavian design sensibility, offering an airy and roomy cabin despite its compact SUV classification. The XC40 was impeccably finished, with harmonious design elements and a premium feel, reinforcing Volvo's position in the luxury SUV market.

The 2021 Acura RDX was equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and the torque-vectoring SH-AWD system, which enhanced handling by distributing up to 70% of engine output to the rear wheels. The RDX offered various driving modes, including Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. The A-Spec trim featured exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires, contributing to its sporty handling, although it lacked adaptive dampers for improved ride quality.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge, powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery, boasted 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h time of 4.9 seconds. The Recharge utilized regenerative braking to recapture energy, offering a one-pedal driving experience that maximized efficiency. Its lower centre of gravity, due to battery placement, improved handling, while the suspension setup provided stability. The XC40 Recharge achieved a combined fuel efficiency rating of 2.8 Le/100 km and offered a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities for added convenience.

The 2021 Acura RDX, despite its compact SUV classification, offered impressive passenger and cargo space. The front seats were notably comfortable, with 12-way power adjustment and heating as standard, while the A-Spec trim added ventilation. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low and flat cushion, affecting leg support. The RDX provided 835 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,668 litres with the seats folded. Additional storage compartments under the cargo floor enhanced practicality, although the infotainment system's design limited accessible storage.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfort features. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, ideal for storing charging cables or small items. The cabin featured ample storage options, including door pockets, a bag hook, and USB power ports. The XC40 Recharge provided 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms, balancing practicality with luxury.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the centre console instead of a touchscreen. While this system mirrored the screen for intuitive control, it required a learning curve and could be distracting. The RDX included standard features like satellite radio, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi tethering, with smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The A-Spec trim boasted a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, delivering excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with advanced technology, including a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The Android Automotive operating system provided seamless integration with Google services, while Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth ensured compatibility with various devices. The XC40 Recharge supported over-the-air updates for both infotainment and vehicle software, enhancing convenience. However, the range display, showing percentage rather than distance, could induce range anxiety, highlighting an area for improvement.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with a suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available on higher trims. Despite this, the RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, demonstrating its strong safety credentials.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with the gasoline version earning a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The XC40 Recharge's extensive safety equipment included collision warning, blind-spot information, and lane-keeping assist. Its new sensor platform enhanced active safety features, while Volvo's Connected Safety system shared road condition data with other vehicles, showcasing Volvo's commitment to safety innovation.