2022 Mazda CX-30 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 creation of the XC90, which launched as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90, built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, showcased a sleek and athletic profile with pronounced wheel arches and a distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight design. The interior exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trims, with options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, was a compact SUV that shared its platform with the Mazda3, resembling a downsized CX-5 with its upright grille and smooth fenders. The CX-30's raked windshield, while stylish, could distort the view for taller drivers. Inside, the cabin was quiet and comfortable, with a blend of conventional and digital displays. The infotainment system, though visually appealing, had a steep learning curve. The CX-30 offered various trims, with the GT grade featuring a power liftgate, leather upholstery, and an optional turbocharged engine. The interior design was elegant, but the infotainment system's usability was a point of contention.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid combining gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft. 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.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 came with a base 2.0-litre engine in the GX trim, producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. The GS and GT trims featured a 2.5-litre engine with 186 hp and 186 lb-ft. The test model had an upgraded 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, offering 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on 87 octane fuel, and 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and Sport mode provided lively performance, with quick and precise steering. However, the sporty suspension resulted in a rough ride over uneven roads.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults might find it cramped. The XC90 provided 357 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,855 litres with the second and third rows folded. It could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, making it versatile for family trips. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof enhancing the airy feel. The climate control system performed well even in extreme weather conditions.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided up to 1,280 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 572 litres with the seats in use. The GT trim featured a power liftgate for convenience. The front seats had a sliding centre console cover, which could get stuck when the rear seats were folded. The rear seats offered decent headroom for short-to-medium trips but might be tight for longer journeys. The interior design was practical, with deep door pockets for storage.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering smartphone-like gestures and Bluetooth functionality. However, the system could be slow and glitchy, performing better with Apple CarPlay. The digital instrument panel and optional head-up display provided clear information. The Advanced package included a 360-degree camera and an advanced air cleaner. The XC90 came with standard keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system on higher trims, along with multiple USB ports for device charging.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system was controlled by a rotary dial and toggle buttons, lacking touch functionality. Inspired by luxury systems like BMW's iDrive, it was criticized for poor usability. Navigating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was cumbersome without a touchscreen. The system required time to learn, and switching between presets was challenging. Despite its elegant design, the infotainment system's functionality was a drawback.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aid. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, earning the Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered available driver-assistance features like forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Standard features included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The test model had adaptive headlights and a 360-degree parking camera. The CX-30 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, earning the Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating.