2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while introducing more character. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but with softer lines and more chrome detailing. The LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights added a distinctive touch. The Inscription trim was the most luxurious, featuring extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more basic aesthetics, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism," with high-quality materials and a restrained design. The interior featured matte-finish wood trim and unique upholstery options, such as wool and Nappa leather, complemented by an Orrefors crystal shifter.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson, built on a new platform, offered a long-wheelbase model in North America, providing ample cargo space. Its design featured a parametric grille with integrated LED lights, creating a unique visual signature. The Tucson's side profile mirrored the Hyundai Elantra, with a silver D-pillar for a floating roof effect. The rear showcased distinctive LED taillights. Depending on the trim, the Tucson rode on 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels, with high-end trims featuring premium fascias and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, with stain-resistant cloth seats standard and leather-trimmed options available. The dashboard's horizontal lines and uncluttered design enhanced the sense of spaciousness.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric motors, delivering 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. All models came with all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its power, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines. The XC90 offered three drive modes—Pure, Hybrid, and Power—but the 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.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson featured two powertrain options: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine and electric motor, producing 226 hp and 258 lb-ft. The hybrid was more powerful and efficient, with a combined fuel consumption of 6.4 L/100 km. The Tucson's AWD system performed well in off-road conditions. The upcoming plug-in hybrid version promised even more power, with an estimated 261 hp and 224 lb-ft, and an all-electric range of around 40 kilometres.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered six- or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom. The third row was tight for adults, and seats lacked support. A power sunroof and upright roof profile enhanced the spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, but storage space was limited. Cargo capacity was 317 litres with all seats up, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with both rows down. A hands-free power tailgate was standard.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson provided a spacious interior, with a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat standard and an eight-way version available. Heated and ventilated seats, along with a heated steering wheel, were offered. The Tucson's new platform increased passenger and cargo space, with 1,095 litres of cargo capacity. The rear seats offered more legroom than the RAV4, and the cabin comfortably accommodated a family of four. A 60-40 split-folding bench seat and dual-level cargo floor added versatility.

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. A 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display were optional. The touchscreen was user-friendly, but the text was difficult to read while driving. The wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and only second-row USB-C ports were available.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, six-speaker audio system, and smartphone connectivity. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation. The flat surface of the larger screen made it challenging to find controls while driving, but steering wheel controls and voice commands helped. The narrow steering wheel controls were less user-friendly.

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 rating. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and a driver attention monitor. Additional features like blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control were available.