2022 Ford Expedition vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Ford Expedition underwent significant updates, featuring exterior styling revisions and enhanced infotainment technology. The front of the vehicle showcased a new grille, headlights, and bumper, while the rear was updated with revised taillights, tailgate trim, and a new bumper. Redesigned wheels were introduced across the model lineup. In Canada, the Expedition came standard with a four-wheel drive drivetrain and was available in XLT, Limited, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from just under $70,000 to over $95,000. The Timberline trim, designed for off-road enthusiasts, added features like all-terrain tires and suspension modifications. Inside, the Expedition boasted a redesigned dashboard with the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, the latter featuring a 15.5-inch touchscreen. The Limited Stealth Edition, with its leather seats and impressive tech, offered a luxurious experience despite some F-150 pickup-grade plastic trim.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from Volvo's past boxy designs, presenting a purposeful yet understated look. Its front end was solid and assertive, with the recognizable "Thor’s Hammer" headlights adding a modern touch. The XC90's dimensions remained somewhat rectilinear, but it was far from the toaster-like designs of the past. Our test vehicle, in Ultimate trim, featured 21-inch wheels and a Platinum Grey paint with brown undertones. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with two-tone leather steering, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist interior design included wood deco inlays and a clean, button-light cabin, offering a serene driving environment.

The 2022 Ford Expedition was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering a towing capacity of up to 4,173 kg. Fuel economy ranged from 12.9 to 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with our test vehicle observing 14.5 L/100 km. The Expedition's driving dynamics were enhanced by the Stealth Edition Package's sport-tuned suspension, though the ride quality was sometimes harsh due to the 22-inch wheels. Despite its size, the Expedition was easy to park, thanks to excellent visibility and features like parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system. On the highway, it provided a quiet and comfortable ride, ideal for long road trips.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the new B6 engine, a mild-hybrid powertrain producing 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This setup offered improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation compared to its predecessors. The XC90's eight-speed automatic transmission provided quick acceleration, while road and wind noise were kept at bay. The brakes inspired confidence with a solid pedal feel. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with minimal body roll through corners despite its size. However, it lacked customizable driving dynamics, offering a simple driving experience with a manual shift feature and an off-road mode.

The 2022 Ford Expedition excelled in comfort, offering easy access with available electric running boards. The interior provided ample space for passengers, with power-adjustable, leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs offered plenty of legroom, while the third-row seat provided outstanding leg support. Cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, expandable to 2,961 litres with both rear rows folded. The Expedition Max variant offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was elegant but had limited storage space. The second row was comfortable, though adjusting the seats was challenging. The standard seven-passenger seating could be configured for six-passenger seating with captain’s chairs. The third row was difficult to access, with limited space. Cargo capacity was 356 litres with the third row in place, expanding to 1,856 litres with all rear seats folded. The XC90 drove like a smaller car, offering a more compact experience compared to typical three-row SUVs.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured the next-generation Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems. The standard Sync 4 system included a 12-inch touchscreen, while Sync 4A offered a larger 15.5-inch display. Both systems supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and FordPass Connect. Sync 4A added features like wireless smartphone charging and an upgraded voice-recognition system. The Expedition also offered a dual-touchscreen rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV. Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 was available for easier trailer reversing.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display ran on Google OS, featuring Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant. The system supported Apple CarPlay, though iPhones were less compatible. The XC90's tech included natural-language recognition and integration with Google Home devices. However, many functions were controlled through the touchscreen, which could be frustrating. Keyless entry was standard, with a head-up display as an option.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered three Ford Co-Pilot360 packages. The standard package included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and new features like intersection assist. The Platinum trim included Co-Pilot Assist 2.0, with a surround-view camera and rear automatic emergency braking. BlueCruise hands-free driving technology was available, though the lane-centring assist had some issues with accuracy and reliability.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, earning a five-star rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The lane-keeping assist provided gentle corrections and vibrations when needed. Volvo's Pilot Assist technology helped maintain distance and speed, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features.