2023 BMW X1 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 moving towards a more upscale, luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new vehicle platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 featured a sleek, aerodynamic profile with pronounced wheel arches and a distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight design, nodding to its Swedish heritage. Inside, the XC90 boasted a "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" aesthetic, with natural wood and metal trim, a crystal gear selector, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2023 BMW X1, while an evolution rather than a revolution, showcased a more robust and refined design. The larger, squarer kidney grille and flush door handles gave it a modern look, complemented by standard LED headlights and taillights. The 2023 model offered a dynamic palette of 13 exterior colours, including new options like Blue Bay Lagoon and Utah Orange. The X1's interior, though not overly luxurious, was distinctly premium, featuring the BMW Curved Display and SensaTec 2.0 seat coverings. The M Sport Package added sport seats and an M leather steering wheel, while the Premium Essential Package included a panoramic moonroof and wireless device charging.

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 with a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Recharge model boasted an EV range of up to 58 kilometres and a combined fuel economy of 8.9 L/100 km. The XC90's driving experience was smooth and agile, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

The 2023 BMW X1 received a power boost with its 2.0-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder engine, now producing 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This allowed the X1 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and tow up to 1,587 kilograms. The new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission replaced the previous eight-speed automatic, enhancing the driving experience with paddle shifters in the M Sport Package. The X1's Adaptive M Suspension and damping systems provided a comfortable and stable ride, with minimal body roll. The X1's fuel economy was rated at 9.6 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults might find it lacking in legroom. The XC90 provided 357 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,855 litres with the second and third rows 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 heat, and the AWD system and heated seats made it suitable for winter conditions.

The 2023 BMW X1's larger dimensions resulted in a more spacious interior, with impressive headroom and legroom in both rows. The X1 offered 727 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,619 litres with them folded. Heated seats were part of the Premium Essential Package, which also included a heated steering wheel and wireless charging. The wireless charging pad featured a clever clasp to secure the phone, even on twisty roads.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. While the system was intuitive, it was occasionally slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, and the Advanced package included a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. The XC90 also offered a Harman-Kardon audio system and multiple USB ports for device charging.

The 2023 BMW X1 introduced the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8, integrating a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch driver information display. The system was responsive, though cluttered with apps and sub-menus. Voice commands worked well, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included. The Premium Enhanced Package added a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The X1 featured four USB-C ports and an optional Harman Kardon sound system.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 BMW X1 introduced standard active blind-spot monitoring with an exit warning function and a front-collision warning system with pedestrian and cyclist detection. The Driving Assistant Professional suite offered adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The Premium Enhanced Package included a 360-degree camera system, and Active Park Distance Control and Back-Up Assistant were available.