2023 Buick Encore GX 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 the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 featured a sleek, forward-leaning profile with pronounced wheel arches and a distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight design, reflecting its Swedish heritage. 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.

In contrast, the 2023 Buick Encore GX did not draw from Buick's rich design history, opting instead for a modern look that some found awkward due to its rounded surfaces and tall stance. The Sport Touring Package added subtle enhancements like a black mesh grille and 18-inch wheels, but the overall design lacked the distinctiveness of its competitors. Inside, the Encore GX Essence trim offered leather upholstery and a range of features typical of a top-trim model, but the interior's plastic elements reminded drivers of its position in Buick's lineup. The dashboard and door panels were reminiscent of 1990s design, with the instrument cluster being the standout feature.

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 combining gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's driving experience was praised for its minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model, which provided spirited acceleration and a seamless blend of electric and gasoline power.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX, available in Canada with a 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, produced 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. While the Encore GX offered a comfortable ride and quiet cabin, its performance was less impressive, with power delivery requiring patience due to the small engine and turbocharger. The steering was described as slow and lifeless, and the suspension, while providing a smooth ride, allowed for significant body roll.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row, which was best suited for children. Cargo capacity ranged from 317 to 1,855 litres, depending on seat configuration, and the XC90 could tow up to 2,250 kilograms. The interior was spacious and well-equipped, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof enhancing the airy feel. The climate control system performed admirably during a heat wave, and the XC90's AWD and heated features made it suitable for winter conditions.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. Cargo capacity was 665 litres with the rear seats up and 1,422 litres with them folded. However, the front seats were positioned closely together, reducing the sense of spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Despite these issues, the Encore GX made efficient use of available space for small-item storage, and its instrumentation was well-executed, though a 360-degree camera view button was notably absent.

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 added a head-up display and 360-degree camera system. The XC90 also included keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system on higher trims, with multiple USB ports for device connectivity.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with an 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information display. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM radio. Optional upgrades included navigation, a head-up display, and a Bose audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with clear graphics, though the screen size was smaller than some competitors.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist, which provided semi-autonomous driving assistance. It received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, underscoring its commitment to safety.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and a Teen Driver system. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring were optional. The Encore GX received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2022, though it had an "Average" score for child-seat anchor ease of use.