2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo'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 brand underwent a transformation, developing new platforms like the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for its flagship SUV, the XC90. The vehicle's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, complemented by the iconic "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights. Inside, the XC90 exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trims, a crystal gear selector, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC40, while smaller, retained a distinctive SUV-like profile with a flat roof and clean exterior lines. The 2023 model introduced subtle updates, including pixelated "Thor's Hammer" headlights and a more angular front bumper. Built on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, the XC40 shared its underpinnings with the C40 Recharge and Polestar 2. The interior maintained a minimalist design with thin air vents and scalloped door elements, offering leather upholstery and vegan leather for Recharge models. The XC40 Ultimate featured a panoramic moonroof and an Orrefors crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt more utilitarian.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 250 hp 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. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 achieving 10.1 L/100 km combined, the T6 at 10.8 L/100 km, and the Recharge offering 8.8 L/100 km in hybrid mode. The Recharge's electric range extended up to 58 km, with charging taking about five hours at 240 volts. 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 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-hp integrated starter generator. The B5 models in Canada used a 2.0-litre turbo-four engine with 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, offering a refined driving experience with smooth power delivery. The XC40 Recharge, with its dual electric motors, produced 402 hp and 486 lb-ft, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and a range of 359 km. The XC40's handling was composed, absorbing bumps well, though it lacked a sport driving mode.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, 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 found it cramped. Cargo capacity was generous, with up to 1,855 litres available with the second and third rows folded. The XC90 could tow up to 2,250 kg, making it versatile for family adventures. Interior storage was ample, and the cabin was airy and comfortable, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof and effective climate control.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, though smaller, offered reasonable space for its class. It provided ample rear-seat headroom and shoulder room, though legroom was average. Cargo space was 566 litres with the rear seats up and 1,328 litres with them folded. The XC40 featured a power tailgate and keyless entry, with innovative interior storage solutions like scalloped door panels and a spacious centre console.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. While intuitive, the system was occasionally glitchy, performing better with Apple CarPlay. The Advanced package added a head-up display and a 360-degree camera. Standard features included keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system on higher trims.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 adopted an Android-based infotainment system with Google apps, a 12.3-inch digital cluster, and a nine-inch touchscreen. The B5 Ultimate trim included a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While graphics were pleasing, Apple users might find the Google integration less satisfying. The minimalist design meant most controls were touchscreen-based, which could be less convenient for some functions.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, reflecting Volvo's commitment to safety.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 also offered a robust set of standard safety features, with additional options on higher trims. While it received high safety ratings, the updated IIHS side-impact test resulted in an "Acceptable" rating. The NHTSA awarded the gasoline XC40 a five-star overall rating.