2022 Subaru Forester vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Subaru Forester presented a range of trim levels, from the base model to the Premier, with prices starting at $29,495 and reaching $40,595. The Forester Wilderness, a new addition for 2022, featured a rugged design with white paint and a dark grey interior, priced at $38,995 including destination. Its exterior, with a suspension lift and protective cladding, gave it a distinctive, albeit polarizing, appearance. Inside, the Forester emphasized functionality with a mix of hard plastic and soft surfaces, creating a cabin that felt well-constructed but somewhat dated. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution in Volvo's design language, moving away from the boxy aesthetics of the past. The XC90's purposeful yet understated front end, with its assertive grille and "Thor’s Hammer" headlights, added a modern flair. The Ultimate trim featured 21-inch wheels and a Platinum Grey paint with brown undertones, enhancing its elegant appearance. Inside, the XC90 exuded Scandinavian elegance with two-tone leather, metal speaker covers, and Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist design, with wood deco inlays and limited physical controls, created a clean and sophisticated cabin environment.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. While it lacked a turbocharger, the Forester's CVT and all-wheel drive system provided a 25% increase in initial torque supply in the Wilderness model, doubling its towing capacity to 1,360 kilograms. The Forester's fuel consumption was rated at 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres, and it excelled in various driving environments, from city streets to off-road trails. The long-travel suspension and dual-function X-Mode system enhanced its off-road capabilities, though the lack of engine power and wind noise at higher speeds were noted drawbacks.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the B6 engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain offered improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation, though the benefits were minimal. The XC90's eight-speed automatic transmission provided quick acceleration, and its large wheels and thin tires minimized body roll. The mild-hybrid system's electric motor powered auxiliary functions, enhancing the fuel-saving auto stop-start technology. While the XC90 lacked extensive off-road features, its driving experience was enjoyable and refined, with excellent noise insulation and confident braking.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The StarTex upholstery, water-resistant and easy to clean, suited the Forester Wilderness's adventurous spirit. Upgraded roof rails accommodated a three-person roof tent, and the interior offered comfortable seating and decent storage space. Cargo capacity ranged from 762 to 2,101 litres, depending on the configuration, making it one of the roomiest compact SUVs.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was elegant but had limited storage space for smaller items. The second row was comfortable, though accessing the third row was challenging. The XC90 offered 356 litres of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 1,856 litres with the rear seats folded. While it fell short of some competitors in cargo capacity, the XC90's driving dynamics made it feel smaller and more agile than typical three-row SUVs.

The 2022 Subaru Forester featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered an 8-inch screen with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Forester Wilderness included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. While the navigation system was helpful, the voice recognition system was inconsistent.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display ran on Google OS, integrating Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant. The system's natural-language recognition enhanced the user experience, and commands could be issued via Google Home devices. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for key functions was a drawback. Keyless entry was standard, and a head-up display was optional.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced EyeSight 4.0, a camera-based driver assist system with improved accuracy and a wider field of vision. It included features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester earned a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA and was expected to retain its "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The XC90's Pilot Assist technology provided additional support for maintaining distance and lane position.