2024 Hyundai Venue vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2024 Volvo XC90, available in Canada in B6 and Recharge T8 models, offered a blend of luxury and practicality. The B6 featured a turbocharged and supercharged mild-hybrid engine, while the Recharge T8 was a plug-in hybrid with an estimated 53 kilometres of electric-only range. Both models came standard with all-wheel drive and were available in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trims, with prices ranging from $71,550 to $94,500, excluding fees. The Recharge T8 in Ultimate trim boasted features like massaging front seats, a premium audio system, and a trailer hitch, with a total cost of $107,709. The XC90's exterior was characterized by earthy tones and chrome accents, while the interior, though dated, was adorned with rich materials and offered customization options.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Venue was sold in Essential, Preferred, and Ultimate trims, with prices from $23,581 to $28,081, including destination charges. The Venue Preferred trim was recommended for its enhanced exterior and added safety features. The test model, in Ultimate trim with Ecotronic Grey paint, had an MSRP of $28,331. Despite its affordability, the Venue's design was stylish, with a mature appearance. Inside, it featured hard plastics but maintained a sense of style with striped seats and white trim. The digital instrumentation and 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display were highlights, offering a high-quality experience for a small SUV.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. It offered 53 kilometres of electric-only driving and averaged 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The SUV accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in five seconds. Charging was straightforward, with options to reduce time using a 240-volt outlet. The XC90 featured multiple driving modes, including Pure, Power, and Hybrid, with a Constant AWD mode for varied conditions. However, real-world testing showed a slightly reduced electric range and fuel economy. The XC90 excelled in power delivery but lacked thrilling handling, with a firm ride and some cabin noise.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue was equipped with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque. Weighing between 1,200 and 1,250 kilograms, it was paired with a CVT that maximized power for city and suburban driving. The Venue's small size and nimble handling made it ideal for urban environments, though it struggled on rough roads due to its suspension setup. On highways, it maintained speed but sounded strained under pressure. The Venue lacked all-wheel drive, but its 17 centimetres of ground clearance helped in snowy conditions. It achieved a fuel consumption rating of 7.5 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly higher during testing.

The Volvo XC90 Recharge T8, even in Core trim, was well-equipped with features like power-adjustable heated front seats, leather upholstery, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims offered additional comforts like a heated steering wheel and ventilated seats. The XC90 seated seven, with a comfortable second-row bench and a tighter third row. Cargo capacity was up to 2,426 litres with seats folded. However, the climate control struggled on hot days, and entry could be awkward due to seat design.

The Hyundai Venue's increased ground clearance facilitated easy entry and exit. Despite its compact size, it offered decent comfort, with manual seat adjustments and heated front seats. The back seat was cramped for three, with limited storage and no air vents. Front storage was adequate, with a dashboard shelf for convenience. Cargo space was 528 litres, expanding to 902 litres with the rear seats down.

The Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in technology, offering navigation, Google Play access, and voice recognition. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM were standard, with premium audio options available. The system was intuitive, though the digital instrumentation panel could be confusing. A head-up display and surround-view camera were optional.

The Hyundai Venue's 8-inch touchscreen was user-friendly, with modern graphics and logical menus. It included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system. However, the sound quality could have been better for its target audience.

Volvo's XC90 was synonymous with safety, earning high crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. However, its ADAS features were not as advanced as competitors, with Pilot Assist showing limitations during testing.

The Hyundai Venue came standard with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Blind-spot monitoring was added in higher trims. It received good crash-test ratings but lacked advanced features like adaptive cruise control.