2022 GMC Yukon 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 airflow-dependent design of the gas version. Subtle details like the enlarged fuel-filler flap, trim-specific alloy wheels, and the absence of tailpipes hinted at its electric nature. The XC40's design was a nod to Volvo's Swedish roots, with features like the Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion. Inside, the XC40 boasted a Scandinavian design sensibility, offering an airy and roomy cabin despite its compact SUV classification. The harmonious dash elements and premium finishes underscored its luxury status.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Yukon was a celebration of chrome, especially evident in the Denali trim, which featured a vast, multi-dimensional grille that gave the vehicle a commanding presence. The Denali's front was almost entirely chrome, complemented by C-shaped headlights and 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels. The off-road-oriented AT4 trim had its unique styling with a dark grille and skid plate. Inside, the Yukon offered a spacious cabin with standard seating for eight, or seven with second-row captain's chairs. The Denali trim featured exclusive interior designs, with our test vehicle showcasing a Teak/Light Shale colour combo. The AT4 trim had a Jet Black interior with Brandy accents. The Yukon's redesign improved third-row legroom significantly, and the independent rear suspension provided a smoother ride and more cargo space.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was a thrilling drive, powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack and two electric motors, delivering 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, impressive for a compact SUV. The gasoline-powered XC40 models, the T4 and T5, used turbo four-cylinder engines with 8-speed automatic transmissions, achieving 0-100 km/h times of 8.5 and 6.4 seconds, respectively. The Recharge featured regenerative braking, allowing drivers to engage one-pedal driving to maximize energy recovery. Its lower centre of gravity, due to battery placement, enhanced handling, making it feel stable and planted through curves. The XC40 Recharge had a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered three engine choices, including a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The diesel engine provided excellent fuel efficiency, allowing the Yukon to travel over 1,000 kilometres on a tank. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Yukon had a maximum towing capacity of 3,810 kilograms, with specific configurations required to achieve this. The Denali trim, with its 6.2-litre V8, offered a 3,629-kilogram tow rating. The Yukon's independent rear suspension improved handling and ride quality, though some bouncing was noted over rough surfaces. The optional air ride adaptive suspension enhanced comfort and off-road capability.

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, ideal for storing the charging cable or small items. Inside, the cabin featured ample storage cubbies, door pockets for water bottles, and USB power ports. The front seats were comfortable, while the rear seats were suitable for outboard passengers but tight for a middle passenger. 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 Yukon provided ample space for passengers and cargo, with significant improvements in third-row legroom. The redesign increased third-row legroom by over 25 centimetres, and cargo space behind the third row grew to 722 litres. The Yukon's longer wheelbase and independent rear suspension contributed to the increased space. The second-row seats folded flat, and power-folding options eased access to the third row. The Denali trim featured a power-sliding centre console with hidden storage, and power-retractable assist steps were part of the Denali Ultimate Package. The pushbutton transmission controls were a modern touch, though they required some acclimation.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was loaded with technology, including Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centring. The Recharge featured a heat pump to extend its range, operating transparently with the climate control system. The infotainment system included a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. It offered Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth as standard. Over-the-air updates allowed for software improvements without dealership visits. However, the range reporting system, which displayed a percentage of charge rather than kilometres remaining, was a point of contention.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came standard with a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information centre, providing access to phone, audio, and navigation functions. The Denali trim featured a 15-inch head-up display, the largest in its class, offering driving speed, safety aids, and off-road information. The 10.2-inch touchscreen housed the GMC infotainment system with Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Denali Ultimate Package included a Bose 14-speaker audio system and a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreens. The audio quality was adequate, though not exceptional.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, while the gasoline 2021 XC40 T5 AWD earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The XC40 Recharge's standard safety features included collision warning and avoidance, blind-spot information, lane keep assist, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. A new sensor platform enhanced active safety features, and Volvo's Connected Safety system shared road condition data with other connected vehicles.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came with GMC's Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Pro Safety Plus package added blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The Safety Alert Seat and rear camera mirror enhanced safety further. The Yukon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for front crash protection, five stars for side crash protection, and three stars for rollover resistance.