2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge adhered closely to traditional automotive design, making the transition from internal-combustion engines to electric power as seamless as possible for consumers. From the outside, it closely resembled its gasoline counterpart, with subtle differences like a solid panel in place of a grill, trim-specific alloy wheels, and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40 maintained its reputation for being a stylish and well-assembled vehicle, featuring signature elements like Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion. Inside, the XC40 offered a spacious and airy cabin, with a Scandinavian design sensibility that emphasized harmony and luxury, positioning it firmly in the premium SUV category.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler was a vehicle that celebrated its rugged and adventurous spirit. Buyers had to choose between a two-door or four-door body style and a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or a plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler came in four core trim levels, with numerous special editions offering different roof and top configurations. Our test vehicle, the High Tide model, was based on the four-door Sport S trim and included options like LED exterior lighting, a body-colour hardtop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield. The Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a focus on practicality rather than luxury. Despite its high price, the Wrangler's charm lay in its unique driving experience, offering a sense of freedom and adventure that few vehicles could match.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was a testament to the exhilarating potential of electric vehicles. It featured a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack powering two electric motors, delivering a combined 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in just 4.9 seconds, making it one of the fastest compact SUVs. The Recharge also boasted regenerative braking and a one-pedal drive mode, enhancing efficiency and driving enjoyment. With a lower centre of gravity due to its battery placement, the XC40 Recharge offered excellent handling and stability. It achieved a combined fuel efficiency rating of 2.8 Le/100 km and a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine and eTorque mild-hybrid system, produced 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time 4WD, the Wrangler was well-suited for challenging terrains and adverse weather conditions. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with a combined rating of 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres, though our test vehicle averaged 14.0 L/100 km. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, characterized by its ruggedness and off-road capabilities. It required frequent stops at the gas station and offered a raw, immersive driving experience that appealed to adventure seekers.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and a comfortable interior. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, providing additional storage space. Inside, the XC40 featured ample cubbies, door pockets, and USB power ports for modern conveniences. The front seats were comfortable, while the rear seats were suitable for two passengers, with limited space for a third. The XC40 Recharge offered a cargo capacity of up to 1,628 litres with the rear seats folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler presented challenges in terms of accessibility, especially with its raised suspension. The interior featured durable cloth upholstery and a mix of plastic and rubber materials. The driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard, requiring some adjustment. Visibility varied, with some areas offering excellent views and others being compromised. Rear-seat passengers faced entry and exit difficulties but found comfortable accommodations once inside. The Wrangler offered 898 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 2,050 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features. It included Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with automated lane centring. The Recharge featured a heat pump to extend its range and a 9.3-inch touchscreen with Android Automotive operating system, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and more. The infotainment system supported over-the-air updates, though the range reporting system relied on a percentage of charge rather than distance, which could cause range anxiety.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, based on the Sport S trim, featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While it lacked the larger Uconnect system, it provided essential connectivity. The Wrangler included options like remote engine starting, satellite radio, and heated front seats. The Cold Weather Group added a heated steering wheel, extending the open-air driving season.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane keep assist. The XC40 Recharge also featured a new sensor platform for enhanced active safety and Volvo’s Connected Safety system, sharing road condition data with other connected Volvo vehicles.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving due to its design.