2023 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 moving towards the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by China's 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 showcased a sleek and athletic profile, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. Its design elements, such as the "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights, paid homage to its Swedish heritage. Inside, the XC90 offered a luxurious "Scandinavian Modern" interior with natural wood and metal trim, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30, available in four trims in Canada, featured a design with a long hood and stubby rear end, giving it a nose-heavy appearance. Despite its excessive grey body cladding, the CX-30's artful design was appealing. The GT Turbo model, with its black wheels, added to the SUV's rugged look. Inside, the CX-30 offered an upscale cabin with quality materials, including off-white leather and a chocolate brown centre console in the GT Turbo. The interior was reminiscent of an entry-level luxury SUV, justifying its premium pricing. However, the front passenger seat lacked adjustability, and rear legroom was tight.

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 AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Recharge model had an EV range of up to 58 kilometres and a combined fuel economy of 8.9 L/100 km. The XC90 provided a superb driving experience, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered three engine options: the base GX with a 2.0-litre engine producing 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque, the GS and GT with a 2.5-litre engine delivering 191 hp and 186 lb-ft, and the GT Turbo with a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine producing up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium gas. All models featured AWD and a six-speed automatic transmission. The CX-30's GT Turbo provided robust acceleration and a thrilling driving experience, especially on twisty roads. However, the small 48-litre fuel tank limited its range, and the suspension struggled with speed bumps and humps.

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 found it cramped. The XC90 provided up to 1,855 litres of cargo space with the second and third rows folded and could tow up to 2,250 kilograms. The interior featured ample storage, comfortable seating, and a panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well, even in extreme heat, and the AWD system and heated features made it suitable for winter.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 featured standard dual-zone climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a power moonroof. However, the front passenger seat lacked adjustability, and rear legroom was tight. The CX-30 offered 572 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded. Storage space was reasonable, with various bins and compartments. The GT and GT Turbo trims included paddle shifters and a power liftgate, although the latter was unnecessary given the limited cargo space.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering smartphone-like gestures and Bluetooth functionality. However, the system was occasionally glitchy and slow. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The Advanced package included a 360-degree camera and an advanced air cleaner. The XC90 also offered a Harman-Kardon audio system and multiple USB ports.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system lacked a touchscreen, relying on centre console controls that required visual reference. The system also lacked conversational voice recognition and a tuning knob, making it less user-friendly. However, the 8.8-inch display offered pleasing graphics and a logical menu structure. All CX-30s included Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and two USB ports. The GT Turbo added SiriusXM, navigation, and a 14-speaker Bose 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 NHTSA.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 improved its side-impact crash protection and received an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating. Safety features varied by trim, with the GT and GT Turbo offering advanced systems like a surround-view camera and traffic jam assist. The forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking worked effectively, though sometimes excessively.