2021 Honda Pilot vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance styling with reliability, safety, comfort, and performance. Despite efforts to enhance its rugged appearance with a 2019 refresh and a 2020 Black Edition, the exterior design remained polarizing. The Black Edition featured exclusive black leather upholstery with red accents, but the interior's resemblance to a minivan, coupled with its uninspiring exterior, did not enhance its appeal. Quality materials were evident, yet the overall design did not stand out.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution from Volvo's boxy past, embracing a more upscale, luxury-oriented image. The XC90's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The interior exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trim, and exquisite details like a crystal gear selector. Volvo's commitment to sustainability was evident, with options for leather-free interiors, although Nappa leather remained available for those desiring ventilated seats.

The 2021 Honda Pilot was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided smooth and refined power, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system. The Pilot offered a comfortable ride with unexpectedly athletic handling, thanks to its MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension. Fuel efficiency was reasonable, with a combined rating of 11.0 litres per 100 kilometres, and the test vehicle achieved 10.9 L/100 km.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid. The T5 produced 250 horsepower, the T6 316 hp, and the Recharge a combined 455 hp. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Recharge model boasted an EV range of up to 58 kilometres. The XC90's driving experience was superb, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, particularly in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

The 2021 Honda Pilot offered ample space for families, seating up to eight with a bench second-row seat. The Black Edition featured comfortable leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver. Second-row captain's chairs were standard on Black Edition models, providing nearly as much comfort as the front seats. The Pilot's cargo space was generous, with 524 litres behind the third row and up to 3,092 litres with all seats folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row. However, the third row was best suited for children due to limited legroom. The XC90 offered 357 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. The interior was spacious and airy, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof. The XC90 excelled in climate control, providing a comfortable environment even during extreme weather conditions.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Touring trim added a rear-seat entertainment system and wireless phone charging. However, the system's small screen and limited voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. HondaLink subscription services were available only on higher trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered a tablet-like interface with a 9-inch touchscreen. While intuitive, it was occasionally slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The Advanced package included a 360-degree camera system and an advanced air cleaner. A Harman-Kardon audio system was standard on higher trims.

The 2021 Honda Pilot came with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. While effective, the system lacked refinement. The Pilot received favourable crash-test ratings, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and high scores from the IIHS.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, featuring blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. The XC90 earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, underscoring its commitment to safety.