2022 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Genesis GV70

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 place of the traditional grille, a design choice that redirected airflow efficiently. 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 dash elements and premium finishes underscored its luxury status.

In contrast, the 2022 Genesis GV70 stood out with its bold styling, diverging from the rest of the Genesis lineup. It featured the brand's signature two-line lighting, creating a near-continuous circle around the vehicle. The GV70 offered six grades, with the Sport and Sport Plus grades boasting a sculpted hood and unique shoulder lines. Dark chrome finishes and a cross-hatched matrix pattern on the Sport grades emphasized its sporty intent. Genesis provided a wide array of colour combinations, with more than 100 options available, including exclusive matte paints for the Sport grades. Inside, the GV70's cabin featured elliptical inserts inspired by airplane wings, with premium grades offering quilted leather seats and carbon fibre accents. The interior surfaces were mostly of high quality, though some plastic elements were present.

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, propelling the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The XC40 Recharge featured regenerative braking, allowing drivers to engage one-pedal driving for maximum energy recovery. Its lower centre of gravity, due to battery placement, enhanced handling and stability. The Recharge boasted a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with a combined fuel efficiency rating of 2.8 Le/100 km. DC fast-charging could replenish the battery from 0 to 80% in 40 minutes.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options, with the 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 being the highlight. This engine produced 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque, positioning the GV70 against mid-level performance competitors. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, with a rear-axle bias for improved handling. The Sport Plus grade included an electronic limited-slip differential for enhanced torque distribution. The GV70 offered multiple drive modes, including Sport+ for aggressive performance. Its electronically controlled suspension system adapted to road conditions, providing a balance between comfort and feedback. The GV70's turning radius was notably tight, aiding urban manoeuvrability.

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, including door pockets for water bottles and map pockets on the front seatbacks. The front seats provided excellent comfort, while the rear seats were suitable for outboard passengers but less so 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 Genesis GV70 prioritized driver-centric design and ergonomics. The centre console separated the driver from the front passenger, with intuitive controls within easy reach. The infotainment system was controlled by a raised dial, offering a tactile experience. The GV70 featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with ventilated front seats and heated rear seats available. The rear space was enhanced by a panoramic sunroof and manual sunshades. Cargo volume behind the second row was 819 litres, expanding to 1,610 litres with the seats folded. The tonneau cover could be stowed under the rear load floor when not in use.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a comprehensive suite of tech features. It included Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with automated lane centring. A heat pump extended the vehicle's range by efficiently managing climate control. The infotainment system featured 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 connectivity. Over-the-air updates kept the system current, though the range display relied on a percentage rather than distance, which could cause range anxiety.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 impressed with its tech offerings, including a 14.5-inch high-definition LCD infotainment screen. The system supported split-screen layouts and included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The premium Sport Plus grade featured a 3D digital instrument cluster with Hyundai's Blind View Monitor system. A fingerprint recognition system allowed keyless vehicle start. The GV70 offered a nine-speaker audio system, with an 18-speaker Lexicon surround sound system on top grades. USB ports were available for both front and rear passengers.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, with extensive standard safety features. These included collision warning and avoidance, blind-spot information, lane keep assist, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. The XC40 Recharge's top speed was electronically capped at 180 km/h. A new sensor platform integrated cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors for enhanced safety. Volvo's Connected Safety system shared road condition data with other connected Volvo vehicles.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came with ten standard safety features, including blind spot collision avoidance, lane departure warning, and forward collision avoidance. A rear occupant alert system used radar to detect movement in the second row. The Genesis Highway Driving Assist system provided lane centring and automatic lane changing functions. The GV70's safety systems were considered advanced, though official safety ratings were not yet available.