2022 Volvo XC40 vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy stood out with its distinctive grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and unique 20-inch alloy wheels. It featured upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede headliner, which contributed to its luxurious appearance. The standard LED headlights added a modern touch to the Palisade's design. While opinions on its unconventional styling varied, the Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy undeniably appeared more expensive than its actual cost, both inside and out. The interior, with its premium Nappa leather and suede headliner, offered a level of luxury that was impressive for its price point.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge maintained a familiar design, closely resembling its internal-combustion engine counterparts. The most noticeable exterior change was the solid panel grille, which redirected airflow efficiently. Subtle details like the enlarged fuel-filler flap, trim-specific alloy wheels, and the absence of tailpipes hinted at its electric nature. The XC40's design was characterized by its Scandinavian sensibility, with features like Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion. Inside, the cabin felt airy and spacious, with harmonious design elements and a premium feel, solidifying its status as a luxury compact SUV.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a robust 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. It offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, Snow, and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade achieved a fuel efficiency of 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. Its suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive, though not particularly sporty. The Palisade's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack powering two electric motors, producing 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, showcasing its impressive performance for a compact SUV. The XC40 Recharge utilized regenerative braking and offered a one-pedal driving mode for enhanced energy efficiency. Its lower centre of gravity improved handling, and the suspension setup provided stability. The XC40 Recharge had a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities. Fuel efficiency for the gasoline XC40 models was 9.3-9.4 L/100 km combined.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space and accessibility, offering a plush experience in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim. The front seats were power-adjustable, with heated and ventilated options for both front and second-row passengers. The third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class, and the Palisade provided ample in-cabin storage. Cargo space measured 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,447 litres with the second-row seats folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, though it could be disabled if desired.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge offered clever storage solutions, including a front trunk for additional space. The cabin featured ample cubbies and nooks, with comfortable front seats and slightly cramped rear seating for a middle passenger. The XC40 Recharge provided up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the second row folded and had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms. Its design prioritized passenger comfort and convenience, with thoughtful storage options throughout the interior.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems, with an 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen display. Both systems allowed dual smartphone pairing via Bluetooth, though only the 8-inch setup supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and Blue Link connected services. Additional features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with advanced technology, including Pilot Assist for highway driving and a heat pump to extend range. The infotainment system featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. It supported Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, with over-the-air updates for software. The XC40 Recharge's range display showed a percentage of remaining charge, which could cause range anxiety for some drivers.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. It included lane-keeping systems, a rear occupant alert system, and a Blind View Monitor. The Highway Driving Assist provided adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring protection for occupants in the event of a collision.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, with extensive standard safety equipment. It included collision warning and avoidance, blind-spot information, lane keep assist, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. The XC40 Recharge featured a new sensor platform for enhanced active safety features and Volvo’s Connected Safety system, which shared road condition data with other connected Volvo vehicles.