2021 Volvo XC60 vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2021 Volvo XC60, a product of the Swedish brand now under Chinese ownership, showcased a blend of elegance and innovation. With its Scalable Product Architecture platform, the XC60 shared its design with other Volvo models, featuring a sleek two-box design and distinctive elements like the Thor’s hammer LED headlights. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian design, with clean lines, authentic materials, and a serene atmosphere. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen was a nod to Volvo's early adoption of such technology, and the attention to detail in the cabin, from the HVAC vents to the harmonious textures and colours, elevated the XC60 to near-luxury status.

In contrast, the 2022 Genesis GV70 stood out with its bold styling and unique design elements. The vehicle featured the brand's two-line lighting signature, creating a striking visual effect. The GV70 offered six grades, with the Sport and Sport Plus grades boasting a sculpted hood and dark chrome finishes. The interior was driver-focused, with a tall centre console and intuitive controls. The GV70 also offered a wide range of colour combinations, with more than 100 options available. The cabin featured elliptical inserts inspired by airplane wings, and the premium grades included quilted leather seats and carbon fibre accents, showcasing Genesis's commitment to luxury and innovation.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 offered a range of powertrains, all featuring a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 model increased output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T8 models, including the Polestar Engineered variant, added an electric motor for a combined output of up to 415 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The XC60's plug-in hybrid capability allowed for up to 31 kilometres of electric-only driving. Fuel consumption figures ranged from 11.1 L/100 km city to 4.0 Le/100 km in electric mode, with premium gasoline recommended.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options, with the 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, and the 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 delivering 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The GV70's all-wheel-drive system prioritized the rear axle, with up to 50% of torque available to the front wheels when needed. The Sport Plus grade included an electronic limited-slip differential for enhanced performance. The GV70 featured multiple drive modes, including Sport+ for aggressive driving, and an electronically controlled suspension system that balanced comfort and road feedback. Fuel consumption for the V6 was estimated at 11.6 L/100 km combined.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was designed for comfort and practicality, with highly adjustable front seats and a heating system well-suited for winter conditions. The cabin offered smart storage solutions, and the XC60 provided 613 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,410 litres with the rear seats folded. The XC60 was also capable of towing up to 1,587 kilograms.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 prioritized the driver with a tall centre console and intuitive controls. The cabin featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with ventilated front seats and heated rear seats available. The rear passenger space was enhanced by a panoramic sunroof and manual sunshades, though storage was limited. The GV70 offered 819 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 1,610 litres with the seats folded. The tonneau cover could be stowed under the rear load floor for convenience.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 featured the Sensus infotainment system, with a tablet-style touchpad interface that divided the screen into function quadrants. The system supported smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system provided exceptional audio quality.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 boasted a 14.5-inch high-definition infotainment screen with split-screen capability, though response times were slower than average. The 3D digital instrument cluster and Blind View Monitor system added a high-tech touch, while the fingerprint recognition system allowed for keyless vehicle start. The premium Lexicon surround sound system and multiple USB ports ensured a connected and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was a testament to Volvo's commitment to safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, collision avoidance, and Volvo's semi-autonomous Pilot Assist system. The XC60's top speed was limited to 180 km/h for safety.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 included ten standard safety features, such as blind spot collision avoidance and lane-keeping assist. The Highway Driving Assist system offered lane centring and automatic lane changing, though it required hands-on operation. A new rear occupant alert system used radar to detect movement in the second row. Safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not yet available at the time of publication.