2023 Volvo XC90 vs 2023 Volvo XC60

The 2023 Volvo XC60 offered a choice of three powertrains, including the B5 and B6 models with turbocharged engines and mild-hybrid technology, both featuring standard all-wheel drive. The XC60 Recharge, a plug-in hybrid, combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor, providing an estimated 58 kilometres of electric range. Prices in Canada ranged from over $50,000 to more than $90,000, with various trim levels and exterior themes available. The test vehicle, a Recharge Ultimate with a Dark exterior theme, showcased Volvo's timeless design with 20-inch wheels and a stylish Thunder Grey paint. Inside, the XC60's Scandinavian minimalism and luxurious materials, including black leather and wood trim, created an opulent atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 demonstrated a significant evolution from Volvo's earlier boxy designs. Its purposeful yet understated exterior featured a stout front end, assertive grille, and distinctive "Thor’s Hammer" headlights. The XC90's dimensions remained rectilinear but far from the toaster-like appearance of its predecessors. The test vehicle, in Ultimate trim with 21-inch wheels and Platinum Grey paint, exuded elegance. Inside, the XC90's design was a blend of luxurious materials, including Nappa leather and wood deco inlays. The minimalist interior featured a few physical controls, contributing to a clean and sophisticated look.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor, delivering 455 horsepower and 423 lb-ft of torque. It offered a maximum towing capacity of 1,587 kilograms. The XC60 featured multiple driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, and Pure, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance. In Pure mode, the XC60 achieved an impressive electric range of 61 kilometres. The XC60's acceleration was swift, reaching 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The updated powertrain, with a more powerful electric motor, enhanced the driving experience, making it fun and responsive. The XC60 Recharge averaged a fuel economy of 4.3 L/100 km during testing, showcasing its efficiency.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the B6 engine, a mild-hybrid powertrain with 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. While it didn't match the fuel economy of full hybrids, the mild-hybrid system improved efficiency and smoothness. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle's handling was impressive, with minimal body roll despite its size. The XC90's brakes inspired confidence, and its quiet cabin added to the overall driving comfort. The XC90's simplicity in driving dynamics, with limited customizable modes, appealed to those seeking a straightforward driving experience.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, a compact crossover SUV, excelled in front-seat comfort with Nappa leather upholstery and power-adjustable features. The back seats, while comfortable, offered limited legroom for taller passengers. The XC60's storage solutions included practical spots in the centre console and door bins. The cargo area provided 730 litres of space, expandable to 1,792 litres with the rear seats folded. The XC60's design allowed for easy loading with a power liftgate and air suspension.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior, while elegant, had limited cubby space for smaller items. The second row was comfortable but challenging to adjust, and accessing the third row was difficult. The XC90 offered 356 litres of cargo space with the third row in place, expanding to 1,856 litres with all rear seats folded. Despite its smaller size compared to typical three-row SUVs, the XC90's driving dynamics made it feel more agile.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 9-inch infotainment system with Google Built-in technology. The system included Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play, with support for Apple CarPlay. The voice-recognition system impressed, and the optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivered exceptional audio quality.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display ran on Google OS, offering features like Google Maps and Google Assistant. The system's natural-language recognition enhanced the user experience, and owners could issue commands via Google Home devices. However, some functions were buried within the touchscreen interface, requiring adjustment. Keyless entry was standard, with an optional head-up display.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, known for its safety innovations, featured Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The system excelled on highways, providing smooth and accurate assistance. The XC60 B5 and B6 models received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The XC90's Pilot Assist technology maintained distance and speed on highways, enhancing safety.