2022 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson was built on a new platform, offering a long-wheelbase model in North America with two rows of seating and an expanded cargo area. Its front showcased Hyundai's new vehicle face, with a parametric grille that cleverly concealed LED daytime running lights, Bi-LED headlights, and LED front turn signals. The headlights and daytime running lights formed a distinctive shape reminiscent of the Aztec Spirit Bird's wings. The side profile borrowed design elements from the Hyundai Elantra, featuring a silver D-pillar that created a floating roof effect. The rear boasted toothy taillights illuminated by LEDs, giving the Tucson a standout appearance among compact SUVs. Depending on the trim level, the Tucson rode on either 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels, with high-end models featuring premium fascias, gloss black pillars, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, with standard stain- and odour-resistant cloth seats, sport combination seats in the N-Line, and leather-trimmed seats available from the Preferred Trend trim upwards. The dashboard's horizontal lines and uncluttered aesthetic contributed to a sense of spaciousness.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from Volvo's boxy past, embracing a more upscale, luxury-oriented image while maintaining its family-friendly and safety-focused reputation. Riding on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, the XC90 had a poised stance and sleek roofline, with pronounced wheel arches and a snub nose reminiscent of classic Volvo designs. The LED "Thor's Hammer" headlights paid homage to the brand's Swedish heritage. Inside, the XC90 exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" with natural wood and metal trim, a sliding wood tambour cover on the centre console, and a clear crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, with options for Nappa leather or a "tailored wool blend" upholstery. The XC90's interior was a testament to luxury, offering a serene and comfortable environment for occupants.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain variants: a 2.5-litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine and a hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. The ICE engine produced 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid delivered a combined 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain was more powerful and efficient, with a fuel consumption rating of 6.4 L/100 km combined. The Tucson Hybrid's AWD system performed admirably in off-road testing, providing stability and control. The upcoming plug-in hybrid version promised even more power, with an estimated 261 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque, and an all-electric range of approximately 40 kilometres.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. All models featured AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Recharge model boasted an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode and a 29-kilometre EV range. The XC90's driving experience was exceptional, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, thanks to the electric motor's early torque delivery.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson was a budget-friendly compact SUV with a well-appointed interior. It featured a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with an eight-way version available on higher trims. Heated front seats were standard, with ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and memory settings available. The Tucson's new platform provided more passenger and cargo space, with a 1,095-litre cargo area and a 60-40 split-folding rear bench seat. The cabin offered ample room for a family of four, with more passenger volume than competitors like the CR-V, RAV4, and Escape.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 came in six- and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. The third row was suitable for children, while the second row offered comfortable seating. The XC90 provided 357 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 1,855 litres with the second and third rows folded. It could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, making it versatile for various needs. The interior featured ample storage, a panoramic moonroof, and effective climate control, ensuring comfort in all weather conditions.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, HD Radio, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a fully digital instrument cluster. The touchpoints on the centre console were responsive, though the lack of physical buttons required reliance on steering wheel controls and voice commands.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. The system supported familiar gestures and offered Bluetooth functionality, though it could be glitchy. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The Advanced package included a 360-degree camera system and an advanced air cleaner. Keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system were standard on higher trims.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson featured the Hyundai SmartSense Safety Feature suite, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor. Additional features like blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system were available. Hyundai offered a 5-year/100,000-kilometre limited warranty.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, lane-keeping aid, and adaptive cruise control. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.