2022 INFINITI QX60 vs 2021 Volvo XC40

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. 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 distinctions, the Recharge maintained a low-key appearance, appealing to those who preferred understated electric vehicles. The interior boasted a minimalist design with high-quality materials, including real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery, creating a cohesive and premium cabin experience.

In contrast, the 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a comprehensive redesign, featuring a striking exterior with a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and chrome accents. The SUV's long hood and raked windshield added elegance, while the blacked-out pillars created a floating roof effect, especially pronounced in the Autograph trim with its contrasting black roof. Inside, the QX60 offered a spacious and open feel, accentuated by horizontal lines and layers on the dash. The Autograph trim showcased quilted leather upholstery on both the seats and dash, complemented by a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The vehicle's craftsmanship and build quality were evident, reflecting Infiniti's commitment to luxury and attention to detail.

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 increased output to 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model, sharing its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasted dual electric motors providing all-wheel drive and a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque. Its 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack enabled a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 4.9 seconds. All models were electronically limited to a top speed of 180 km/h. The XC40 emphasized a luxury driving experience, prioritizing comfort and quietness, with the Recharge model offering one-pedal driving and a towing capacity of 900 kilograms.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 introduced a nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous CVT, significantly enhancing the driving experience. Powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, the QX60 produced 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Fuel consumption was rated at 11.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.5 on the highway, and 10.8 combined. The reworked suspension, featuring MacPherson struts and an independent multilink setup, provided a smooth and serene ride, although the vehicle's size was always apparent. The QX60 excelled on highways and suburban streets, offering ample comfort for passengers across all three rows, with a focus on luxury rather than off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, while not particularly spacious, offered clever storage solutions to compensate for its limited interior space. The centre console featured a removable trash bin and a bag hook in the glovebox door. The Harman Kardon audio system's speakers were relocated to the dashboard, allowing for larger door bins. However, the XC40 Recharge's frunk was small, and second-row occupants lacked phone-charging options. Despite these limitations, the gasoline XC40 remained competitive in its segment, offering a premium feel with its thoughtful design.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60, with its three-row configuration, provided ample space and comfort for all passengers. The centre console offered convenient storage options, and the second-row seats could slide to adjust space between rows. The Autograph trim featured captain’s chairs with a removable centre console, while the third row was easily accessible. The QX60 offered 411 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 1,178 litres with the third row folded, and 2,135 litres with both rows down. Its towing capacity ranged from 1,587 kilograms to 2,721 kilograms, depending on the model and equipment.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, integrating Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with OTA update capability for software-controlled vehicle functions. The gasoline models retained the previous infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other connectivity options. The Recharge model lacked a start button, relying on a key fob for operation, and future updates were anticipated to enhance its digital capabilities.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 impressed with its standard and available technology. The 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, with navigation standard on most trims. The vehicle featured multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a head-up display on higher trims. The Intelligent Key stored personalized settings, and the smart rearview mirror provided a live camera feed. The audio system ranged from a nine-speaker setup in lower trims to a 17-speaker Bose system in higher trims, ensuring a premium audio experience.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received top safety ratings, with the gasoline model earning the IIHS’s "Top Safety Pick+" and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Recharge model featured Volvo’s latest sensor suite, scalable for future driver aid enhancements, and a safety cage around the battery for crash protection.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60, while not yet rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, was expected to perform well based on its predecessor's ratings. It offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including multiple airbags, LATCH connectors, and advanced driver assistance systems like forward emergency braking and blind-spot warning. ProPilot Assist was standard on most trims, with additional optional features enhancing safety and driver convenience.