2022 GMC Terrain vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was a testament to Volvo's approach of easing traditional car owners into the electric vehicle (EV) world without drastic changes. From the outside, it closely resembled its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, maintaining the same basic shape and structure. The most noticeable difference was the solid panel in the grill, replacing the traditional airflow design needed for engine cooling. Subtle details like the enlarged fuel-filler flap for the charge port, trim-specific alloy wheels, and the absence of tailpipes distinguished it as an EV. Inside, the XC40 showcased Volvo's Scandinavian design sensibility, offering an airy and roomy cabin despite its compact SUV classification. The harmonious design elements and premium finishes nudged the XC40 into the luxury SUV category.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Terrain underwent updates to its front styling, wheel designs, taillights, and interior trim. The new AT4 trim level featured a bolder grille, black alloy wheels, and sport-terrain tires, with a steel skid plate for off-road protection. The test model, with its Ebony Twilight metallic paint and black leather interior, was loaded with tech and safety packages, pushing its price to $44,757 in Canada. While the Terrain offered more affordable trims like the SLE and SLT, the entry-level nature of the model was evident in the quality of materials and execution. The pushbutton transmission controls and narrow storage tray were noted as design oversights, and the interior, despite its caramel-coloured contrast stitching, didn't fully meet expectations for craftsmanship.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, driving two permanent magnet electric motors for all-wheel drive (AWD). It delivered an impressive 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The gasoline versions, the T4 and T5, offered 0-100 km/h times of 8.5 and 6.4 seconds, respectively. The Recharge featured regenerative braking, allowing for one-pedal driving, and had a lower centre of gravity for improved handling. It boasted a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities. Fuel efficiency for the gasoline models was rated at 9.3 L/100 km combined for the T4 and 9.4 L/100 km for the T5.

The 2022 GMC Terrain, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. The engine's power delivery required some adaptation, with torque available between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm. The nine-speed automatic transmission helped maintain the torque band, but the absence of the previously available 2.0-litre engine was felt. The Terrain offered FWD and AWD modes, with an Off-Road mode and Hill Descent Control. It had a ground clearance of 20.1 centimetres, less than some competitors, and while it provided a smooth ride on highways, it struggled off-road. Fuel economy was rated at 9.6 L/100 km city, 8.3 highway, and 9.0 combined with AWD.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfort features. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, or "frunk," providing additional storage space. Inside, the cabin featured ample cubbies and nooks, with comfortable front seats and a slightly cramped rear middle seat. The XC40 Recharge offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 GMC Terrain provided a roomy interior for a compact crossover, with numerous comfort-enhancing features. The AT4 trim included power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. The back seat offered ample legroom and support, with a rear USB charging port. Despite some design oversights, the Terrain offered 838 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 1,792 litres with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat could also be folded for longer items.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was loaded with tech, including a long list of driver-assistance systems like Pilot Assist. It featured a heat pump to extend range and a 9.3-inch touchscreen with Android Automotive OS, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and more. The infotainment system supported OTA updates, though the range reporting method was criticized for causing range anxiety.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the SLT, AT4, and Denali trims featuring an 8-inch touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and OnStar services. The Infotainment Package II added connected navigation and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was praised for its accuracy, though the Bose speakers were less impressive. The Tech Package added a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, with extensive standard safety equipment, including collision warning, blind-spot information, and lane keep assist. A new sensor platform enhanced active safety features, and Volvo's Connected Safety system shared road condition data with other vehicles.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The IIHS awarded the Terrain mostly "Good" crash-test scores, though it received a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the 2022 Terrain at the time of review.