2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E attempted to bridge the gap between the traditional Mustang coupe and convertible with its exterior design. Despite having four doors and a rear hatch, it retained a Mustang-like appearance with its thin headlights, elongated hood, and large oval grille, albeit non-functional. The taillights mirrored the original Mustang's design, featuring sequential turn signals. The vibrant exterior colour palette, including the striking Grabber Blue, further reinforced the Mustang connection. Inside, the Mach-E was dominated by a massive infotainment touchscreen, giving it a minimalist feel akin to Tesla's electric cars. The interior materials were of decent quality, though some buyers might have been disappointed by the absence of a leather-upholstery option, even in the top trim levels.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 marked a significant evolution from Volvo's boxy past, maintaining its family-friendly, safety-oriented image while moving towards the luxury class. The XC90's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights added a playful nod to its Swedish heritage. Inside, the XC90 exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" with natural wood and metal trim. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, though Nappa leather was still available for those desiring ventilated front seats. The XC90's interior was a sanctuary, offering comfort and a spacious feel, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof.

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E was designed to live up to the Mustang name with its sporty performance. It came standard with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and offered a range of powertrain configurations. The base RWD Select model produced 266 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, achieving zero to 100 kilometres per hour in 6.1 seconds. The most powerful option was the all-wheel-drive (AWD) GT Performance Edition, boasting 480 hp and 634 lb-ft of torque, with a zero to 100 km/h time of 3.7 seconds. Our test car featured a lower-level AWD powertrain, delivering 346 hp, 428 lb-ft of torque, and a zero to 100 km/h time of 5.1 seconds. The Mach-E handled corners well, with responsive steering and a planted feel, though the taut suspension affected ride quality. It offered three drive modes—Engage, Whisper, and Unbridled—and allowed for one-pedal driving.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre gasoline engine, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid. The T5 produced 250 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the T6 increased output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The Recharge combined gasoline and electric sources for 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. All models featured AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's driving experience was superb, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model. The electric motor provided smooth power delivery, making the XC90 enjoyable to drive.

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E, marketed as an SUV, had a packaging more akin to a station wagon or hatchback. Its low driving position and roofline didn't create a spacious feel, even with a panoramic glass roof. Compared to the Tesla Model Y, the Mach-E fell short on interior space, offering less headroom and legroom. The Mach-E provided 1,690 litres of cargo space with the second row folded and 840 litres with it in place. It also featured a 133-litre front trunk. Interior storage included a decent-sized bin between the front seats and a large area beneath the touchscreen for smartphones, with a wireless charging pad and USB ports for both rows.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults would find it lacking in legroom. The XC90 could carry 357 litres of luggage behind the third row, expanding to 1,008 litres with it folded, and up to 1,855 litres with both rows down. It could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, depending on configuration. The XC90 maximized interior space with ample storage options and a spacious cabin, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well, providing a comfortable environment even in extreme weather conditions.

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E featured Ford's new Sync 4 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and over-the-air software updates. The main infotainment touchscreen measured 15.5 inches, while the instrument cluster was 10.2 inches. A six-speaker audio system was standard, with a nine-speaker B&O by Bang & Olufsen system available on higher trims. The touchscreen's size was its standout feature, though its text-heavy design made it less user-friendly. Climate controls were managed through touchscreen icons and sliders, with a large volume knob included.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered tablet-like functionality with familiar gestures. The nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen was positioned for easy access, while a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel provided crisp graphics. The Advanced package included a head-up display, a 360-degree camera system, and an advanced air cleaner. Keyless entry was standard, and a Harman-Kardon audio system was available on higher trims. The XC90 included USB ports for both front and rear passengers.

The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with top crash-test ratings and minor deductions for certain headlights and LATCH ease of use. Standard driver-assist features included automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Mach-E was set to receive Active Drive Assist, enabling automated acceleration, braking, and steering on designated highways, though it wasn't activated at launch.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping aid, and adaptive cruise control. Volvo's Pilot Assist system combined these features for enhanced highway driving, providing a safe and relaxing experience.