2023 Audi Q5 vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Audi Q5 presented a blend of class and sportiness with its exterior styling, featuring subtle curves and angular accents. It was available in two body styles: the standard Q5 SUV and the Q5 Sportback, which boasted a sleeker silhouette due to its sloping rear roofline. Despite the typical reservations about coupelike styling, the Q5 Sportback stood out with a spoiler-like element above the taillights, providing a more defined transition from hatch to tail section. Inside, the Q5 offered a refined yet simple layout, though its age was beginning to show. Standard features included leather seating and heated front seats, with options for a heated steering wheel and rear seats. The 10-inch touchscreen was a nod to traditional design amidst a trend of larger screens, and while materials were of good quality, the Q5 no longer felt as special compared to newer non-luxury competitors. The build quality was robust, with no squeaks or creaks, making it a solid choice among luxury SUVs.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from Volvo's past boxy designs, showcasing a purposeful yet understated look. Its front end was stout and solid, with an assertive grille and the distinctive "Thor’s Hammer" headlights adding modern flair. The XC90's dimensions leaned towards rectilinear, but it was far from the toasters of the past. The Ultimate trim featured 21-inch wheels and a rich Platinum Grey paint with brown undertones. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with two-tone leather steering, metal speaker covers, a crystal shift knob, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist design was complemented by wood deco inlays, though the lack of physical controls could be frustrating. The XC90's interior was a blend of beauty and functionality, offering a serene driving experience.

The 2023 Audi Q5 offered three engine choices. The base 40 TFSI quattro was a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 201 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The midrange 45 TFSI quattro turbo increased output to 261 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, exclusive to the Q5 Sportback. The 55 TFSI e plug-in hybrid delivered 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an electric-only range of 37 kilometres. All Q5s featured a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. The Q5 Sportback with the 45 TFSI engine experienced a delay in power delivery, likely due to the transmission, making initial acceleration feel sluggish. However, once underway, power was adequate, and handling was sporty, with precise steering and a balance between compliance and cornering. The cabin remained quiet, meeting luxury SUV standards.

For 2023, the Volvo XC90 replaced its older engines with the new B6 engine, featuring mild-hybrid technology. This powertrain produced 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, slightly down from the previous T6 engine. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency and smoothness, though the benefits were minimal. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle handled corners well, despite its size, and road and wind noise were well-insulated. The brakes provided confidence with a solid pedal feel. The XC90 lacked extensive off-road features, focusing on simplicity and ease of use.

The 2023 Audi Q5's interior design remained largely unchanged since 2018 but continued to impress with its functionality. The infotainment touchscreen was strategically placed atop the dash for reduced distraction, and traditional dials and buttons were used for climate controls. Outward visibility was good, aided by a narrow front roof pillar. The Q5 offered ample space for taller passengers, with the Sportback model sacrificing only 0.6 cm of headroom. Storage options were available, though some were oddly sized. The Q5 provided 730 litres of cargo space, slightly reduced to 700 litres in the Sportback, with competitive capacity compared to rivals.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was peaceful and pleasant, though Scandinavian minimalism led to some storage frustrations. There was limited cubby space for smaller items, and the USB port was inconveniently located. The second row was comfortable but challenging to adjust, and accessing the third row was difficult. With the third seat in place, the XC90 offered 356 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,183 litres with the third row folded and 1,856 litres with all rear seats down. This fell short of some competitors. Despite its size, the XC90 drove like a smaller car, offering a unique driving experience.

The 2023 Audi Q5 came standard with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen featuring sharp graphics and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though Apple CarPlay took time to activate. The system included a Bang & Olufsen audio system on higher trims and a customizable digital instrument panel called the virtual cockpit. Audi Connect Care allowed remote monitoring and feature control via a smartphone app, with a Wi-Fi hotspot included.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch vertically positioned touchscreen running Google OS, the first of its kind. Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant were standard, with Apple CarPlay compatibility. The system excelled in natural-language recognition, and owners could issue commands via Google Home devices. However, many functions were buried within the touchscreen interface, leading to frustration. Keyless entry was standard, with an optional head-up display.

The 2023 Audi Q5 received five stars from the NHTSA for overall, frontal, and side protection, with four stars in rollover tests. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ with "Good" ratings in all crashworthiness tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and parking sensors. Higher trims added lane-keep assist, a surround-view camera, and traffic jam assist. The top Technik trim featured matrix-design LED headlights, a head-up display, and semi-automated park assist.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Volvo's Pilot Assist technology helped maintain distance and lane position, providing a comprehensive safety package.