2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 featured subtle styling updates that enhanced its sporty appearance. The new front fascia included "air blades" on either side of the grille, while a redesigned rear bumper concealed the tailpipes. All models received new wheel designs, and the front grille was reworked to house sensors for driver-assist systems behind a heated Volvo logo, ensuring functionality in cold weather. The XC60 shared its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with other Volvo models, including the XC90 and various sedans and wagons. Inside, the XC60 retained its clean design with a new digital instrument cluster, a portrait-oriented touchscreen, and minimal clutter. The B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, though the interior felt subdued compared to other Volvo models. The Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 maintained its distinctive design, combining Volvo's current design language with a flat-roofed, SUV-like profile. The exterior was clean and free of unnecessary detailing, with hidden tailpipes on gasoline models reflecting Volvo's pro-electrification ethos. For 2023, updates included pixelated "Thor’s Hammer" headlights, a more angular front bumper, and new wheel designs. The XC40 shared its Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform with the C40 Recharge and Polestar 2, making it the only CMA-based model in North America with a combustion engine. The interior continued with a minimalist design, featuring thin air vents, scalloped door handles, and speaker grilles. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control and an optional air purifier. Leather upholstery was available, with vegan leather for Recharge models. The XC40 Ultimate test vehicle boasted options like a panoramic moonroof and an Orrefors crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt more utilitarian.

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 and an integrated starter generator, adding 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 also featured 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 standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The 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 were enhanced by optional air suspension. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, achieving zero to 60 mph in 5 seconds. The Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a zero to 60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator. The B5 models in Canada had a 2.0-litre turbo-four engine with 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, outperforming the Audi Q3. The XC40's refinement stood out, with composed cornering and a smooth ride. The Recharge model, with two electric motors, produced 402 hp and 486 lb-ft, achieving zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and offering a 359-kilometre range. The Recharge also had a higher towing capacity of 2,000 kg compared to the B5 AWD's 1,587 kg.

The 2022 Volvo XC60's interior space remained unchanged, offering competitive passenger space. Front-seat headroom was above average, but rear-seat headroom was tied with the Audi Q5 for the lowest in its segment. Legroom was average. The mild-hybrid models provided 611 litres of cargo space with rear seats up and 1,410 litres with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models had slightly less cargo capacity. The XC60 offered a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while compact, offered reasonable space among its competitors. It tied with the BMW X1 for rear-seat headroom and was slightly behind the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class in front-seat headroom. Legroom was average, but generous shoulder room enhanced spaciousness. Cargo space was 566 litres with rear seats up and 1,328 litres with them folded, less than the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. A power tailgate and keyless entry were standard. The XC40's interior storage was notable, with scalloped door panels providing flexibility and a large centre console storage bin.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul with a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Optional features included a head-up display and premium sound systems. The Android system integrated Google Assistant for voice control and Google Maps for navigation, with over-the-air updates. Apple compatibility was promised, though without Google profile syncing. The system's graphics were praised, but Apple users might have differing opinions. The digital cluster offered a "Calm" setting to minimize distractions.

For 2023, the Volvo XC40 adopted the Android-based infotainment system, featuring Google apps for navigation and voice recognition. A 12.3-inch digital cluster and 9-inch touchscreen were standard. The B5 Ultimate model included a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and USB-C ports. The infotainment experience was similar to other Volvo models, with pleasing graphics but potentially less satisfaction for Apple users. The minimalist design meant most controls were on the touchscreen, which could be cumbersome for some functions.

The 2022 Volvo XC60's safety ratings were not yet available, but the 2021 model received top ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. 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 Volvo XC40 emphasized safety with standard features like lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, traffic-sign recognition, rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert. The Plus trim added parking sensors and a 360-degree camera, while the Ultimate included adaptive cruise control and Pilot Assist. The IIHS gave the XC40 top ratings in most tests, though it received an "Acceptable" rating in the updated side-impact test. The NHTSA awarded the gasoline XC40 a five-star overall rating.