2022 Acura RDX vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, leading to the current XC90, which launched in 2016 as the flagship SUV on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. The XC90's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, complemented by the distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights. Inside, the XC90 boasted a "Scandinavian Modern" aesthetic with natural wood and metal trim, offering a choice between Nappa leather and a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, with updates to the grille surround, bumpers, and wheel designs. The limited-production PMC Edition stood out with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and Orchid white interior. The RDX lineup included various trims, with the A-Spec Platinum Elite package offering high-quality materials and a quieter interior. Despite some controversial design elements, the RDX maintained a stylish flair. The interior was equipped with comfortable, supportive seats and a sporty driving position, though the control layout required some acclimation. The RDX's cabin was quieter than previous models, enhancing its appeal as a compact luxury SUV.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 hp. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's driving experience was smooth and controlled, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model. Fuel efficiency varied, with the Recharge model achieving an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode and a 4.0 Le/100 km with a 29-kilometre EV range.

The 2022 Acura RDX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet 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 driving dynamics were enhanced by the revised Integrated Dynamics System and adaptive-damping suspension, offering a smoother ride in Comfort mode and greater responsiveness in Sport mode. Despite its enjoyable driving character, the RDX's fuel consumption averaged 11.4 L/100 km, slightly above its rated 10.3 L/100 km.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row, suitable for children. Cargo capacity ranged from 357 litres behind the third row to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. The XC90's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a standard panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well, even in extreme weather conditions, and the SUV's AWD system and heated features made it suitable for winter driving.

The 2022 Acura RDX, though a compact SUV, offered ample space for four adults and their luggage, with a standard panoramic sunroof. The interior featured a sporty design, but the control layout required some adjustment. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with available ventilation, while the back seat lacked support. Cargo space was generous, with 835 litres available and 1,668 litres with the rear seats folded. A power liftgate with hands-free operation was standard.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. While intuitive, the system was occasionally slow, but Apple CarPlay improved its performance. The Advanced package added a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. Keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system were standard on higher trims, with multiple USB ports for device charging.

The 2022 Acura RDX's TTI infotainment system paired a 10.2-inch display with a touchpad controller, requiring a learning curve. Despite its complexity, the system included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The RDX offered three premium sound systems, with the top-tier ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system featuring 16 speakers. A head-up display was included in the A-Spec Platinum Elite trim.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in its Vision 2020 campaign, aiming to eliminate serious injuries and fatalities in new Volvo cars.

The 2022 Acura RDX also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety. The AcuraWatch suite included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. While adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were improved, they were not as refined as some competitors. The RDX received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA.