2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while adding a touch of modern character. The vehicle retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but with softer lines and more chrome detailing, it presented a more refined appearance. The LED headlights, featuring the distinctive "Thor's Hammer" design, added a unique flair. The Inscription trim level, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most visually striking, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. The XC90's interior embraced "Swedish minimalism," with high-quality materials and thoughtful design. The matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery provided a natural and luxurious feel, complemented by the Orrefors crystal shifter, which added a touch of elegance to the otherwise restrained cabin.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 continued to build on the brand's upscale transformation, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image. The vehicle's design exuded a sense of luxury, with a sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches that emphasized its athletic stance. The interior was described as "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trim, along with exquisite details like the sliding wood tambour cover and crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to sustainability was evident in its move towards leather-free interiors, with options like Nappa leather and a tailored wool blend upholstery. The 2022 model offered a refined driving experience, with a focus on comfort and quality, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a luxurious and environmentally conscious SUV.

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. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, also known as the Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric assist, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. In Canada, all models came with standard all-wheel drive, as front-wheel drive was not available. Despite the impressive power figures, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 engines, and the plug-in hybrid's electric-only mode was limited to low speeds.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued to offer a choice of three powertrains. The T5 model retained the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine with 250 hp and 258 lb-ft, while the T6 model maintained the supercharged and turbocharged setup, producing 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The Recharge model, however, saw an increase in combined output to 455 hp and 523 lb-ft, thanks to its plug-in hybrid system. The extended-range variant offered an EV range of up to 58 kilometres. The XC90's driving experience was enhanced by its smooth power delivery and minimal body roll, making it feel more agile than its size suggested. The Recharge Inscription extended range model provided spirited acceleration, with the electric motor delivering torque early to eliminate turbo lag. The XC90's performance was complemented by its excellent ride quality and quiet cabin, making it a pleasure to drive.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with the option of second-row captain's chairs or a bench seat. While headroom and legroom were average for the segment, the third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The optional power sunroof and upright roof profile contributed to a spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, but the steering wheel was not power-adjustable. Cargo space was limited, with 317 litres behind the third row, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with both rows down. The XC90 offered a hands-free power tailgate for convenience.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 also came in six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold mechanism. The third row was suitable for children, but adults would find it cramped. Cargo capacity increased slightly, with 357 litres behind the third row (317 litres in Recharge models), 1,008 litres with the third row folded (966 litres in Recharge models), and 1,855 litres with both rows down (1,815 litres in Recharge models). The XC90 could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, making it suitable for light towing needs. The interior offered ample storage options and a spacious, airy cabin, enhanced by the standard panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well, providing a comfortable environment in various weather conditions.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, known for its simplicity and functionality. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. A 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display were available. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was user-friendly, though the text and typeface could be difficult to read while driving. The wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and only USB-C ports were available in the rear.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued with the Sensus system, offering a similar 9-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The system supported familiar smartphone gestures, but was occasionally slow to respond. Apple CarPlay worked well, though Android Auto was not tested. The Advanced package added a head-up display, 360-degree camera, and advanced air cleaner. Keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system were standard on R-Design and Inscription models. The XC90 included two front USB-A ports and two rear USB-C ports for device charging.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top "Good" scores in crash tests and "Superior" front-crash prevention ratings. 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 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's commitment to safety, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It featured an extensive list of safety technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist, which provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90's safety features made it a reliable choice for families.