2022 Volvo XC60 vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling changes, enhancing its sporty appearance with a new front fascia featuring "air blades" and a reworked grille that cleverly concealed sensors behind a heated Volvo logo. The rear bumper was redesigned to hide the tailpipes, and new wheel designs were introduced across all models. 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 interior remained somewhat subdued compared to other Volvo models.

In contrast, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator offered a more extravagant interior, with a focus on comfort and luxury. The Aviator featured a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs provided ample space and comfort, though the third row was less accommodating for adults. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, but folding it down increased capacity significantly. The Aviator's design emphasized a quiet and smooth ride, with electric, light-touch door handles and ambient lighting enhancing the luxurious feel.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 versions. The B5 offered 258 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, while the B6 delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Both powertrains featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The XC60's performance was characterized by smooth power delivery and a focus on comfort, with an optional air suspension enhancing the ride quality. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge offered 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque, while the Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 horsepower and 494 pound-feet of torque.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, boasted impressive power with 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It offered 34 kilometres of electric driving range and averaged 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, to optimize efficiency. Despite its power, the Aviator's drivetrain was sometimes unpredictable, with inconsistent acceleration and braking. The available Dynamic Handling Package improved the Aviator's cornering and ride quality, though it lacked the fun-to-drive factor of some competitors.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Cargo space was 611 litres with the rear seats up and 1,410 litres with them folded, though plug-in hybrid models offered slightly less. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort, with features like a heated steering wheel and massaging front seats. However, the third row was cramped for adults, and cargo space was limited to 519 litres with all seats in use. Folding the third row increased capacity to 1,183 litres, with a maximum of 2,200 litres available. The Aviator's design emphasized luxury and convenience, though the third row's limited space was a drawback.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul with a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and available head-up display and premium sound systems. The system integrated Google services like Assistant and Maps, with over-the-air updates and full iPhone compatibility.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. However, it ran the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The Aviator's Revel Ultima 3D audio system impressed, and the Phone As A Key system offered convenience. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were user-friendly, though the Sync 3 system was a weak point.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for 2022, but the 2021 model received top ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. An optional driver assistance package offered adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. The driver aids performed well on highways, though the lane-keeping system struggled in curves. The Aviator had not been rated for safety, but the standard model received high marks from the IIHS and NHTSA.