2022 Ford Expedition vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was a testament to the brand's ability to evolve its design language while maintaining its core identity. Known for its conservative styling, Volvo managed to infuse the XC90 with more character, yet it remained unmistakably a Volvo. The SUV retained traditional styling cues like a boxy profile and a blunt front end, but with softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights featuring "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism," with high-quality materials and a restrained design, highlighted by options like wool upholstery and an Orrefors crystal shifter.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Expedition underwent significant styling updates, presenting a fresh face with a new grille, headlights, and bumper. The rear also saw revisions with updated taillights and tailgate trim. The Expedition was available in various trims, including the off-road-focused Timberline and the sporty Stealth Edition, which featured black 22-inch wheels and unique exterior trim. Inside, the Expedition boasted a redesigned dashboard with the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, offering a large touchscreen display and digital instrumentation. The Limited Stealth Edition test vehicle featured leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and a spacious cabin, making it a comfortable choice for long journeys.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centred around a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 variant, with both turbocharging and supercharging, delivered 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, or Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors for a total output of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. Despite the impressive power figures, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines. The SUV offered three drive modes—Pure, Hybrid, and Power—but the all-electric Pure mode was limited to low speeds. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and maintained a quiet cabin. It had a towing capacity of 2,250 kilograms, suitable for moderate loads.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, with higher output available in certain trims. The engine was mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering a towing capacity of up to 4,173 kilograms. The Expedition's power delivery was addictive, with a signature sound that pleased enthusiasts. However, its fuel economy ranged from 12.9 to 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres, with observed figures reaching 14.5 L/100 km. The Stealth Edition's sport-tuned suspension contributed to a harsh ride, but the SUV's handling and grip were commendable. Despite its size, the Expedition was easy to park, thanks to excellent visibility and parking aids. It shone on highways, providing a comfortable and quiet ride for long trips.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom across its three rows. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. An optional power sunroof and upright roof profile enhanced the sense of space. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats with massage functions, but storage space was limited. Cargo capacity was 317 litres with all seats in place, expanding to 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded. A hands-free power tailgate was standard.

The 2022 Ford Expedition excelled in interior space, offering ample room for passengers and easy access via electric running boards. The test vehicle had power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats, with a wide console providing storage and a wireless charging pad. The second row featured heated captain's chairs with climate controls and cupholders. The third row offered power recline, storage trays, and USB ports, though headroom was limited. Cargo space was 546 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,961 litres with all rear seats folded. The Expedition Max variant offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The system was intuitive, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen that mimicked a tablet. A 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display were available. However, the wireless charging pad was small, and the lack of front USB-C ports was a drawback.

The 2022 Ford Expedition introduced Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, with a 12-inch or optional 15.5-inch touchscreen. Both systems offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and FordPass Connect. Sync 4A featured an adaptive dashcard interface and personal profiles. The test vehicle's Bang & Olufsen audio system had some fidelity issues, and the system's quirks included accidental activation of the defroster and challenges with voice recognition. The Expedition also offered Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 and an upgraded rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured Ford Co-Pilot360 safety packages, with standard features like forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and intersection assist. The Platinum trim included a surround-view camera and rear automatic emergency braking. The Expedition also offered BlueCruise hands-free driving technology, though the lane-centring assist had some issues with accuracy and reliability.