2022 Volvo XC40 vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was a testament to Volvo's approach of gently transitioning from internal-combustion engines to electric power without making radical changes. From the outside, it closely resembled its gasoline 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. Other subtle changes included the enlarged fuel-filler flap for the charge port, trim-specific 19-inch alloy wheels, and the absence of tailpipes, all complemented by tasteful "Recharge" badging. The XC40 was a visually appealing vehicle, with details like the Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion created by thin A, B, and C-pillars. Inside, the XC40 embraced Scandinavian design, offering an airy and roomy cabin despite its compact SUV classification. The harmonious dash elements and premium materials positioned the XC40 Recharge as a genuine luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased how far Volvo had come from its days of boxy, utilitarian designs. The XC90 exuded a purposeful yet understated elegance, with a stout front end and an assertive grille that avoided being flashy. The Thor’s Hammer headlights added a modern touch, and while the XC90's dimensions leaned toward rectilinear, it was far from the toasters of the past. The Ultimate trim featured 21-inch wheels with low-profile Pirelli Scorpion all-season tires, adding drama to its otherwise stoic appearance. The Platinum Grey paint with brown undertones added richness and depth, though Volvo's colour palette remained conservative. Inside, the XC90 was a blend of elegance and luxury, with two-tone leather steering, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, an Orrefors crystal shift knob, and Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist design was complemented by wood deco inlays, though the limited physical controls could be a point of frustration for some.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was a thrilling drive, powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack and two permanent magnet 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, maximizing energy recovery and battery preservation. With a lower centre of gravity due to battery placement, the XC40 Recharge offered excellent handling and stability. It boasted a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with DC 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 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the B6 engine, a mild-hybrid powertrain replacing the older T5 and T6 engines. The B6 offered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, slightly less than the T6 but with improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The mild-hybrid system used a lithium-ion battery to power a 13-volt starter generator, handling tasks like climate control and ignition. While not a full hybrid, the XC90's mild-hybrid setup provided advantages over regular gas cars, such as imperceptible auto stop-start technology. The XC90 delivered a reserved yet enjoyable driving experience, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its size, the XC90 handled corners well, and its brakes inspired confidence. The XC90 lacked extensive off-road features, focusing instead on simplicity and ease of use.

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 extra storage space. Inside, the cabin featured ample cubbies and nooks, accommodating modern essentials. 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 second row folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2023 Volvo XC90, while elegant, faced some space and storage challenges due to its Scandinavian minimalism. The lack of dedicated space for smaller items, like cell phones, was a drawback. The second row was comfortable and spacious, but accessing the third row was challenging. The XC90 offered 356 litres of cargo space with the third row in place, expanding to 1,183 litres with the third row folded and 1,856 litres with all rear seats down. This fell short compared to competitors like the Audi Q7 and Infiniti QX60. Despite its size, the XC90 drove like a smaller car, offering a more compact experience than typical three-row SUVs.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was loaded with tech, featuring a long list of driver-assistance systems, including Pilot Assist. The Recharge's heat pump supported climate control, extending the vehicle's range. The infotainment system included a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store were built-in, with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth also available. The system supported over-the-air updates, though the range reporting method, showing percentage rather than distance, could cause range anxiety.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display running on Google OS, with Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant as standard features. The natural-language recognition was a highlight, allowing for voice commands via Google Home devices. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for key functions could be frustrating. Keyless entry was standard, with a head-up display optional.

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

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, with a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. These technologies supported Volvo's Pilot Assist, maintaining distance from other vehicles and assisting with lane-keeping.