2022 INFINITI QX60 vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was a testament to Volvo'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 without losing its recognizable features. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and 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 thoughtful layout. The interior featured matte-finish wood trim and unique options like wool upholstery, complemented by an Orrefors crystal shifter, adding a touch of luxury to the otherwise restrained cabin.

In contrast, the 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a complete redesign, marking the start of its second generation. The exterior changes were dramatic, with a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and oversized air intakes, giving it a concept-car-like appearance. The long hood and steeply raked windshield added elegance, while the blacked-out pillars created a floating roof effect. The Autograph trim level further enhanced this with a contrasting black roof. Inside, the QX60 felt spacious and open, with quilted leather upholstery on the Autograph trim and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The cabin was designed for comfort, with intuitive controls and a high level of craftsmanship, reflecting Infiniti's commitment to luxury and quality.

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 featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, boosting output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, also known as Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. Despite the impressive power figures, the small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 engines. The XC90's drive modes—Pure, Hybrid, and Power—offered varying levels of efficiency and performance, but the Pure mode was limited to low-speed use. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and maintained a quiet cabin, although its towing capacity was lower than some rivals.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine, naturally aspirated and direct-injected, producing 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The new nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous CVT, providing a more engaging driving experience with smooth and crisp shifts. The QX60's suspension, with MacPherson struts at the front and an independent multilink setup at the rear, offered a comfortable ride, while the electric power steering delivered good feedback. The QX60 was not designed for sporty handling but provided a serene ride, with ample comfort in the second and third rows. Fuel consumption was competitive, and while off-road capabilities were not tested, the QX60 was well-suited for highway and suburban driving.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom across all 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 heated and ventilated front seats with massage, 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. The XC90 offered a hands-free power tailgate for convenience.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60, with its three-row configuration, provided ample storage and charging options throughout the cabin. The centre console featured a cubby for smartphones and covered storage, while the shift-by-wire technology allowed for additional storage space beneath the console. The second-row seats slid on rails for easy access to the third row, which offered generous space for adults. Cargo capacity was 411 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,135 litres with both rows folded. The QX60 also offered a towing capacity of up to 2,721 kilograms with the right equipment.

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 user-friendly, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen that allowed for easy navigation. However, the text and typeface made reading menus difficult while driving, and the wireless charging pad was not compatible with most phones. The XC90 also offered a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a head-up display.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 came equipped with a 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity. The system included six USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a navigation system with TomTom map data. Higher trims featured a 10.8-inch head-up display and a smart rearview mirror, providing a live camera feed. The QX60 also offered a 17-speaker Bose Performance series sound system on higher trims, enhancing the audio experience.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received top safety ratings, including the IIHS's "Top Safety Pick+" for non-hybrid models and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, living up to Volvo's reputation for safety.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but previous models received high marks. It came with a full array of airbags and advanced driver assistance systems, including forward emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot warning. ProPilot Assist was standard on all but the base trim, offering additional safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-departure prevention.