2022 Acura RDX vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling changes, enhancing its sporty appearance with a new front fascia featuring "air blades" and a redesigned rear bumper that conceals the tailpipes. The front grille was reworked to house sensors for driver-assist systems behind the heated Volvo logo, ensuring functionality in cold weather. Built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, the XC60 shared its foundation with other Volvo models like the XC90 and S90. Inside, the XC60 retained its clean design, with a new digital instrument cluster and a portrait-oriented touchscreen. The B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, though the overall interior remained subdued compared to other Volvo models.

The 2022 Acura RDX's styling changes were subtle, inspired by the larger MDX model, with updates to the grille surround and bumper styling. The limited-production RDX PMC Edition returned with exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid white interior. The RDX lineup included various trims, with starting prices ranging from $45,800 to $61,500, excluding a destination charge. The A-Spec Platinum Elite package, priced at $60,375 in Canada, offered high-quality interior materials, solid build quality, and a quieter cabin. Despite some reservations about the new vertical air inlets, the RDX maintained a stylish flair compared to its rivals.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 options. Both powertrains combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system, providing an additional 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 powertrain also featured an electric supercharger. The XC60 B5 delivered 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 offered 295 hp and 310 lb-ft. Both used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The XC60 B5 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, while the B6 achieved it in 5.9 seconds. The XC60's standout features included a quiet cabin and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, with a 0 to 60 mph time of 5 seconds. The Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters was standard, and the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided excellent torque-vectoring capabilities. The RDX's Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered distinct driving modes, and the adaptive-damping suspension provided a smoother ride in Comfort mode and greater responsiveness in Sport mode. The RDX's quieter ride was achieved through Active Sound Control enhancements and added sound insulation. While the RDX excelled in driving dynamics, it didn't qualify for Acura's Type S performance badge, making it less thrilling than some German competitors.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained its competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Legroom was average for the segment. The mild-hybrid models offered 611 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,410 litres with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly less cargo capacity. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2022 Acura RDX offered ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. The RDX's front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation. However, the back seat lacked comfort, prioritizing a flat cargo load floor. The RDX's cargo space was generous, with 835 litres available and 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen running the Android Automotive operating system. It included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The system integrated Android-specific features, such as Google Assistant and Google Maps, and allowed over-the-air software updates. The infotainment system was compatible with iPhones, though Android users enjoyed additional functionality. The digital instrument cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

The 2022 Acura RDX's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller. The system required a learning curve, as it differed from traditional touchscreens. The RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Three premium sound systems were available, with the ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system offering 16 speakers. The A-Spec Platinum Elite trim featured a 10.5-inch head-up display.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not yet received crash-test ratings from the IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2021 model earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating and a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. An optional driver assistance system combined adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, maintaining its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. New safety features included a rear seatbelt reminder system and enhanced AcuraWatch driver-assist systems. The RDX's adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems were improved but not as refined as some competitors. The NHTSA awarded the RDX a five-star overall crash-test rating, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.