2023 Honda CR-V vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling changes, enhancing its sporty appearance with new "air blades" on the front fascia and a redesigned rear bumper that concealed the tailpipes. 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, featuring a new digital instrument cluster and a portrait-oriented touchscreen. While the interior was generally subdued, the B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats. The Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The 2023 Honda CR-V adopted a cleaner, more conservative look with a blunt nose, long hood, and stretched wheelbase, promising a design that would age well. The CR-V EX-L featured 18-inch alloy wheels and dark-tinted rear privacy glass. Inside, leather-wrapped seats, a steering wheel, and a shift knob elevated the interior from the standard cloth upholstery. The dashboard, inspired by the latest Civic, included metal mesh trim and a larger touchscreen infotainment system. The CR-V EX-L also boasted a power-adjustable front passenger seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a power rear liftgate. Prices in Canada started at $34,240 for the CR-V LX-B with FWD, with various trims offering different features and prices.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 versions. 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 variant also included an electric supercharger. The 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 AWD standard in Canada. The XC60 B5 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and the B6 in 5.9 seconds. The XC60's smooth power delivery and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension, emphasized luxury over sportiness. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, achieving zero to 60 mph in 5 seconds, while the Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

The 2023 Honda CR-V retained its 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 190 hp at 6,000 rpm and 179 lb-ft of torque between 1,700 and 5,000 rpm. This engine was paired with a CVT, powering either the front or all four wheels. While the CVT's droning noise was noticeable during hard acceleration, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, with refined suspension, steering, and brakes. The CR-V managed speed bumps and uneven pavement with ease, offering a satisfying driving experience. Despite the CVT's drawbacks, the CR-V achieved impressive fuel economy, averaging 8.1 L/100 km on a mountainous route.

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 them folded, while plug-in hybrids had slightly less capacity. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2023 Honda CR-V claimed to be the roomiest yet, though the driver's seat felt more car-like than SUV-like. The second row offered ample space, with a high seating position and good thigh support. Taller passengers might find headroom limited, but adjustable seatback recline positions helped. The CR-V featured numerous storage options, including a large bin under the centre armrest and storage trays. The EX-L's cargo area offered 1,113 litres of space, expandable to 2,166 litres with the rear seats folded. The Hybrid version had slightly reduced cargo capacity.

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 infotainment system supported both Android and iPhone users, though Apple users might find the Google-based design less appealing. The digital instrument cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EX-L trim added a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, SiriusXM, wireless charging, and an upgraded sound system. The top-tier Touring Hybrid offered a Bose sound system and navigation with real-time traffic. While the EX-L's tech was an improvement, it lacked some features found in competitors. The CR-V's safety features were also standard, but not groundbreaking.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for 2022, 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 2023 Honda CR-V improved its driver assist systems, bundled under Honda Sensing. Standard features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centring assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. New features included a seatbelt reminder, rear-seat reminder, driver monitoring, and traffic sign recognition. The CR-V's ACE body structure and new airbag designs enhanced safety. The IIHS rated the 2023 CR-V as a Top Safety Pick+, while NHTSA ratings were pending.