2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Volvo XC60

Volvo's 2022 XC60 featured subtle styling updates, including a new front fascia with "air blades" for a sportier look, a redesigned rear bumper that concealed the tailpipes, and fresh wheel designs. The front grille was reworked to house sensors for driver-assist systems behind a 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, while the Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between classic two-door and practical four-door body styles, with various engine options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Wrangler came in four core trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions like the Willys and Rubicon 392. 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 a focus on durability and functionality, featuring floor drain plugs for easy cleaning. Despite its high price, the Wrangler's interior lacked the plushness expected at its price point.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 engines. 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, and the B6 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, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 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 Jeep Wrangler featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system. The Wrangler's fuel consumption was rated at 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, but our test averaged 14.0 L/100 km. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, with a rough ride, loud cabin, and vague steering, but it offered an immersive experience that engaged all senses. The Wrangler was designed for off-road adventures, providing a sense of freedom and exploration, but required frequent fuel stops and had a high thirst for fuel.

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 rear seats up and 1,410 litres with seats 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 Jeep Wrangler posed challenges for entry and exit, especially with a raised suspension. The seats were comfortable, with durable cloth upholstery, and the interior featured plastic and rubber materials. Visibility varied, with some areas requiring adjustments, but the reversing camera and safety features aided in manoeuvring. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but found comfortable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was 898 litres behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,050 litres with the seat folded. Storage options were limited, with netting and small compartments.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen with Android Automotive OS, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system included Google Assistant for voice control, Google Maps for navigation, and access to third-party apps via the Google Play Store. The system supported over-the-air updates and was compatible with iPhones, though Android users benefited more. The digital instrument cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, based on Sport S trim, had a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 system offered upgrades like satellite radio and a premium audio system. Our test vehicle included remote engine starting, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, and single-zone automatic climate control. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2021 model received top safety ratings. 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 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Wrangler received a three-star rollover rating from NHTSA and Marginal ratings from IIHS for crash tests. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving due to its design.