2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was a clever adaptation of the Impreza hatchback, designed to capture the growing market for crossovers with its rugged appearance, standard all-wheel drive (AWD), and elevated driving position. It shared the Subaru Global Platform with other models like the Legacy/Outback, Ascent, and Forester, offering a refined design. The Crosstrek stood out with its black body cladding, model-specific alloy wheels, and increased ground clearance of 22 centimetres, giving it a more SUV-like character. The interior, while functional, was somewhat plain, with water-repellant upholstery and vibrant exterior colours like Plasma Yellow Pearl adding a touch of personality.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo's boxy past, embracing a luxurious and family-friendly image. As Volvo's flagship SUV, it featured a sleek design with a long roofline, pronounced wheel arches, and the iconic "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights. The interior exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," with natural wood and metal trim, a crystal gear selector, and a commitment to leather-free options by 2030. The XC90's spacious cabin, available in six or seven-passenger configurations, offered a comfortable and airy environment, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof and advanced climate control.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre boxer-four engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, and a more powerful 2.5-litre boxer-four engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, available on the Outdoor and Limited trims. The boxer engine's low profile contributed to a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling. While a six-speed manual transmission was available with the 2.0-litre engine, most buyers opted for the continuously variable transmission (CVT). All trim levels featured standard AWD, with X-Mode and various driving modes enhancing off-road capability. Despite its SUV-like stance, the Crosstrek excelled on pavement, offering predictable handling and a comfortable ride.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 provided a choice of three powertrains. T5 models featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine with 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while T6 models added a supercharger, boosting output to 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The Recharge model combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. All XC90 models used an eight-speed automatic transmission and required Premium gasoline. The Recharge model offered an electric range of up to 58 kilometres. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, thanks to the electric motor's early torque delivery.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared its interior dimensions with the Impreza hatchback, offering competitive passenger space but limited cargo capacity. With 588 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 1,565 litres with the seats folded, it lagged behind some competitors. The Crosstrek featured a rear-seat reminder system and a practical front cubby with USB ports, though rear-seat passengers had limited access to charging ports. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, providing good visibility, but it didn't offer the commanding view of larger SUVs.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered versatile seating configurations, accommodating six or seven passengers. The third row was suitable for children, while the second row provided easy access with a one-handed slide and fold mechanism. Cargo capacity ranged from 357 litres behind the third row to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. The XC90 excelled in interior storage, with ample door pockets, seat back pockets, and console space. The cabin was bright and airy, thanks to the panoramic moonroof, and the climate control system performed admirably in extreme weather conditions.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured the Starlink infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. Higher trims received an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation. The system was user-friendly, with large analog knobs and buttons for essential functions. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assistance features were controlled via steering wheel buttons, enhancing safety.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 boasted the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality. While intuitive, the system occasionally experienced glitches. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel providing customization options. The Advanced package included a head-up display, 360-degree camera system, and advanced air cleaner. The XC90 featured multiple USB ports for device charging and a Harman-Kardon audio system on higher trims.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS. EyeSight driver-assist technology included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. However, the system's cameras could be obstructed by wipers or sunlight, limiting functionality.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, receiving the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It featured a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist, which provided semi-autonomous driving capabilities on highways.