2022 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2022 Kia EV6 was a striking vehicle, exuding a sporty and svelte design reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. It appeared lower and wider, with a highback tail featuring a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar. The wheels were pushed to the corners, giving the body a curvaceous, hip-like appearance similar to a Porsche 911. The headlights squinted in a V-shaped pattern, and the wedgy profile was accentuated by an angled roofline and twin ducts in the rear spoiler. The interior boasted dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and seats covered in faux suede and leather, creating a futuristic yet driver-focused environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge maintained a more traditional design, closely resembling its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart. The most noticeable difference was the solid panel in place of a traditional grille, redirecting airflow efficiently. The XC40 featured trim-specific alloy wheels and tasteful "Recharge" badging. Inside, the cabin was airy and spacious, with a Scandinavian design sensibility. The dash elements were harmonious, and the vehicle was impeccably assembled, offering a genuine luxury SUV experience.

The 2022 Kia EV6 GT-Line e-AWD was equipped with two electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds. The top-power GT trim promised even more with 576 hp and a 0-60 time of less than 3.5 seconds. The EV6 offered a range of regenerative braking settings, including a strong I-Pedal mode for one-pedal driving. However, in cold conditions, the EV6's range was disappointing, achieving only 65% of its estimated 441-kilometre range. Charging was efficient, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, though real-world charging speeds were lower.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured a 78-kilowatt-hour battery powering two electric motors, delivering 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The XC40 Recharge utilized regenerative braking and offered a one-pedal driving mode. Its lower centre of gravity improved handling, and it was rated at 2.8 Le/100 km combined, with a range of 359 kilometres. DC fast-charging could replenish the battery from 0-80% in 40 minutes, making it a practical choice for long journeys.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements like pop-out door handles and a rotary shifter. The interior offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and air vents. However, cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The EV6 had a towing capacity of 1,043 kilograms and an onboard power generator for added utility.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfortable seating. The front trunk provided extra storage, while the cabin featured ample cubbies and USB ports. The rear seats were suitable for outboard passengers, and the cargo area offered up to 1,628 litres with the seats folded. The XC40 Recharge had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with connectivity options and a 360-degree camera system. It featured a head-up display with augmented reality and a 14-speaker Meridian stereo. The remote parking assist system was a standout feature, allowing the car to be moved remotely.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. It ran on the Android Automotive operating system, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and over-the-air updates. However, the range display showed a percentage of charge rather than kilometres, which could cause range anxiety.

The 2022 Kia EV6 came with standard safety features like forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims offered blind spot monitoring and 360 cameras. However, it lacked published test results from safety organizations.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and featured an extensive list of safety equipment, including collision warning, blind-spot information, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. Its new sensor platform enhanced active safety features, and Volvo's Connected Safety system shared road condition data with other vehicles.