2022 Chevrolet Suburban 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 featured a sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches, giving it an athletic stance. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian Modern and Swedish Luxury, with natural wood and metal trim, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban adopted Chevrolet's full-size truck design language, sharing styling cues with the Tahoe SUV and Silverado 1500 pickup. The Suburban's tall hood and long proportions gave it a commanding presence, with six available trims offering customization options. Our RST test vehicle, with its Cherry Red Tintcoat and 22-inch wheels, showcased a sporty look. Inside, the Suburban offered a spacious cabin, with leather seats standard from the LT trim and up. The RST's interior featured Jet Black perforated leather with Victory Red stitching, though the predominantly black cabin felt somewhat dark despite chrome and red accents.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp. The T5 models were front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive, while the T6 and T8 were all-wheel drive only. The XC90's driving experience was notable for its minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model, which provided a smooth power delivery.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban also offered three engine choices: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 hp, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline-six with 277 hp. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 6.2-liter V8, part of the Sport Performance package, provided effortless power and acceleration, making it ideal for towing. The Suburban's independent rear suspension improved ride quality and increased cargo space, while the 6.2-liter V8 excelled in towing tests, handling an 80-mile tow with ease.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row, though it was best suited for children. Cargo capacity ranged from 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row to 85.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The XC90's interior was thoughtfully designed with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof, providing a comfortable and airy cabin.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in space, offering seating for up to nine with the optional front-row bench seat. The third row was adult-friendly, and cargo space was impressive, with 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row and 144.7 cubic feet with seats folded. The Suburban's power-sliding center console and numerous storage options added practicality, though its size made maneuvering in tight spaces challenging.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, though it was occasionally slow to respond. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and optional head-up display. The XC90's audio options included a standard Harman Kardon system and an optional Bowers & Wilkins upgrade. USB ports and a WiFi hotspot were standard, along with the Volvo Care app.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban offered a range of tech features, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and Google built-in on LT trims and above. The Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System included an 8-inch touchscreen on the LS and a 10.2-inch system on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a WiFi hotspot. Audio options ranged from a basic six-speaker system to a premium Bose CenterPoint system.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, earning the Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban included the Chevy Safety Assist suite with features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Suburban received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with high marks for side crash protection.