2022 Volvo XC90 vs 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe offered a diverse range of trims, each with distinct styling elements that set them apart. The base LS and popular LT models featured different grille patterns, while the sporty RST trim boasted a slotted grille, blacked-out appearance, and 22-inch wheels. The rugged Z71 combined the LS grille with a blacked-out look, red tow hooks, and unique 20-inch wheels for off-roading. The upscale Premier trim added chrome accents to the RST's grille, and the luxurious High Country featured a chrome bar grille and bright-finished 22-inch wheels. The Tahoe's design was dominated by its grille, with standard LED headlights and expressive taillights. The SUV's styling retained familiar themes but appeared more slab-sided, with larger wheels enhancing its appearance. Prices ranged from $57,048 for the LS to $81,448 for the High Country, with the Z71 trim tested at $80,293, including various option packages.

The Tahoe's interior focused on a larger 10.2-inch infotainment screen and new electronic transmission controls, improving storage but compromising control layout. The LS trim included cloth seats, while leather became standard with the LT trim. Premier and High Country trims offered perforated leather options. The Z71 trim met quality expectations, with exposed stitching and soft-touch surfaces in the upper cabin, while hard plastic covered the lower half. The Tahoe's interior execution was centred around functionality, though the control layout could be challenging to use.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 showcased a sleek and modern design, moving away from the boxy shapes of the past. It maintained Volvo's family-friendly and safety-oriented image while embracing a more upscale, luxury-class appearance. The XC90's body had a poised stance, with a long and sleek roofline that concealed its size. Pronounced wheel arches and a snub nose added to its athletic appeal, while the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights paid homage to its Swedish heritage. The interior exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," with natural wood and metal trim creating an authentic feel. Exquisite details like the sliding wood tambour cover and crystal gear selector handle emphasized its luxury status.

Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident in the XC90, though Nappa leather was still available for those who preferred it. The test vehicle featured leather seats, which proved beneficial during a week of high temperatures and humidity. The XC90's interior options included a tailored wool blend upholstery, which Volvo promised was easy to care for and long-lasting. The XC90's interior was a testament to Volvo's dedication to quality and comfort, with a focus on creating a luxurious and inviting space for occupants.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe offered three engine options, with a standard 5.3-litre V8 delivering 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque in all trims except the High Country. The High Country featured a 6.2-litre V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. A turbocharged 3.0-litre diesel inline six-cylinder was available for all trims except the Z71, offering 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, with improved fuel efficiency. The Tahoe's 10-speed automatic transmission powered the rear wheels, with four-wheel drive optional on base trims and standard on others. The Z71 trim included a two-speed transfer case, hill descent control, and off-road enhancements. The Tahoe could tow up to 3,810 kilograms and handle 831 kilograms of payload. The independent rear suspension improved ride quality, while Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride suspension options further enhanced comfort and handling.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive was standard, with an eight-speed automatic transmission across all models. The Recharge model featured an electric motor driving the rear wheels, offering an EV range of up to 58 kilometres. The XC90's driving experience was superb, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration. The electric motor provided early torque, eliminating turbo lag and smoothing power delivery. The XC90 was not a hot rod but offered a fun and engaging drive.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe's new independent rear suspension improved passenger comfort and cargo space. The test vehicle featured heated power-adjustable front seats and a heated steering wheel, with ventilated seats available on higher trims. The power sliding storage console was a standout feature, offering a large storage tray and locking drawer. The second row offered a choice between a bench seat or captain's chairs, with the latter providing comfort and easy access to the third row. The third-row seat room was significantly improved, accommodating adults comfortably. The Tahoe offered 722 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,056 litres with the third row folded and 3,480 litres with both rows down.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 came in six-passenger and 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 and thigh support for adults. The XC90 offered 357 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 1,008 litres with it folded and 1,855 litres with both rows down. The XC90 could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, suitable for light towing needs. The interior featured ample storage, comfortable seating, and a spacious cabin, enhanced by a standard panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well during a heat wave, providing a comfortable environment.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with enhanced computing power, over-the-air updates, and cybersecurity protection. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and Chevrolet Connected Services. Navigation and Bose premium audio systems were available upgrades. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though main-menu shortcut icons were challenging to access. The voice-recognition system was impressive, responding accurately to natural prompts. The test vehicle included a Rear Seat Media system, offering versatility for rear passengers. A 15-inch head-up display was available but not included in the test vehicle.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered tablet-like functionality with familiar gestures. The system was intuitive but occasionally glitchy and slow to respond. Apple CarPlay improved performance, while Android Auto was also available. The nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen was positioned for easy access, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel offering customization. The Advanced package included a head-up display, 360-degree camera system, and advanced air cleaner. Keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system were standard on R-Design and Inscription models. The XC90 featured USB ports for device charging.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe included standard safety features like Teen Driver, rear-seat reminder, forward collision alert with pedestrian detection, and low-speed automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offered lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and rear pedestrian detection. Premier and High Country trims added adaptive cruise control, high-speed automatic emergency braking, and a Safety Alert Seat. A surround-view camera was recommended for maneuvering the large SUV. The Tahoe had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review.

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