2021 Volvo XC40 vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Volvo XC40 presented a traditional SUV aesthetic, characterized by its tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, aligning with Volvo's signature design elements like the "Thor’s Hammer" LED headlights and a simple oval grille. The gasoline models offered a retro touch with an optional white contrasting roof. The electric XC40 Recharge differentiated itself with a blanked-off grille, unique badging, and model-specific alloy wheels, alongside a gloss black roof and mirror caps. Despite these subtle differences, the Recharge maintained a low-key appearance, appealing to those who preferred understated electric vehicles. The interior of the XC40 was minimalist yet luxurious, featuring high-quality materials such as real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery. The design was cohesive, with elements like the portrait-oriented touchscreen and air vents blending seamlessly, offering a premium feel without compromising on style.

The 2021 Audi Q5 showcased a sharp and modern design, embodying Audi's design language while maintaining its unique character. Its expressive front featured LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, with horizontal elements emphasizing width. The body boasted crisp character lines, and the rear was marked by bold taillights, contributing to its classy appearance. The plug-in hybrid version added S-Line trim pieces for a more enhanced look. Inside, the Q5 was equally sophisticated, with a focus on technology and an uncluttered layout. The materials used were authentic, with real wood and metal, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for optimal driver visibility. The second row offered standard leather upholstery, ensuring comfort and style throughout the cabin.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a versatile powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline variants featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T4 model delivered 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the T5 variant offered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasting dual electric motors for all-wheel drive, producing a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque. It housed a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack, with 75 kWh usable capacity, enabling a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 4.9 seconds. The T5 and T4 models achieved the same in 6.4 and 8.5 seconds, respectively. All versions were electronically limited to 180 km/h. The XC40 Recharge emphasized luxury and comfort, with excellent ride quality even on rough roads, and offered one-pedal driving through regenerative braking. It also had a towing capacity of 900 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with its plug-in hybrid system, adding 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque to the standard gasoline engine. The combined output reached 362 hp and 373 lb-ft, complementing the vehicle's 4,665-lb curb weight. The setup allowed for impressive acceleration, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, and offered fuel efficiency of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres combined. The Q5 PHEV's battery could be recharged overnight or in 2.4 hours with Level 2 service. It featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with Quattro all-wheel drive, offering various driving modes for battery management. The steering was speed-sensitive, and the suspension provided a balance between comfort and sporty handling, with minimal body roll and predictable braking.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, both in its Recharge and gasoline variants, offered no difference in passenger or cargo space. However, it was not particularly spacious, with less legroom and headroom compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The cargo area was also smaller, and the frunk was limited due to powertrain components. Despite this, Volvo incorporated clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin in the centre console and a bag hook in the glovebox. The Harman Kardon audio system's speakers were moved to the dashboard, allowing for larger door bins. A wireless charging pad was optional, but second-row occupants lacked phone-charging options.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV excelled in smart packaging, with its battery pack positioned under the luggage compartment floor, preserving cargo space. It offered 710 litres of space behind the second row, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded. The second row provided ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and optional ventilation. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including cupholders and various cubbies, maintaining a clean and functional design.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge introduced the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, featuring Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. This system allowed Android users to sync their accounts for customization, while still supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other connectivity options. The standard setup included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Recharge model also offered OTA update capability, enhancing vehicle functions without dealership visits. It lacked a start button, relying on the key fob for activation, and while a Digital Key feature was anticipated, it was not confirmed for the XC40.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi’s latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by a centre-console touchpad. The Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster offered customizable views, enhancing the futuristic cabin feel. The interior was further elevated by adjustable LED ambient lighting. A Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers was standard, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity and entertainment.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 gasoline model received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA. The electric XC40 Recharge was expected to perform well in crash tests due to its safety cage and redesigned front structure. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Recharge model featured Volvo’s latest sensor suite, scalable for future driver aids.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars, with PHEV ratings anticipated to match. Safety features included six airbags, an anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control, and more. Available driver-assistance features encompassed Audi Pre Sense front, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-sign recognition.