2021 Volvo XC60 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC60, positioned between the compact XC40 and the larger XC90, was a testament to Volvo's rebirth under Geely Holding Group. Built on the SPA platform, the XC60 shared its architecture with other 60-series and 90-series vehicles, showcasing a cohesive design language. Its exterior featured an elegant two-box design with short overhangs, an upright grille adorned with Volvo's iron mark logo, and distinctive Thor's hammer LED headlights. The interior exuded Scandinavian charm with clean lines, authentic materials, and a serene atmosphere. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen, once a novelty, had become a familiar and user-friendly feature. The XC60's cabin was a harmonious blend of textures and colors, offering a near-luxury experience with thoughtful details like the elegant HVAC vents and chromed knobs.

The 2022 Volvo XC90, as the flagship SUV, represented Volvo's evolution from its boxy past to a near-luxury brand. Riding on the SPA platform, the XC90 boasted a poised stance and sleek roofline, with pronounced wheel arches and a snub nose reminiscent of classic Volvo design. The interior was a showcase of "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trim, a sliding wood tambor cover, and a crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to sustainability was evident in its leather-free initiative, though Nappa leather remained an option. The XC90's spacious cabin, with its six or seven-passenger configurations, was designed for family comfort, and the panoramic moonroof added to the airy feel. The XC90's air-conditioning system proved effective even in extreme heat, making it a reliable choice for all seasons.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 offered a range of powertrains, all centered around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The T5 models, available in FWD or AWD, delivered 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 models, with AWD, increased output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, thanks to the addition of a supercharger. The T8 models, as plug-in hybrids, combined a gasoline engine with an 87-hp electric motor, achieving 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The T8 Polestar Engineered variant further enhanced performance to 415 hp. The XC60's AWD system and torque vectoring ensured agile handling, while the cabin remained quiet and comfortable. Fuel economy ranged from 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway for the T5 FWD to 57 MPGe in electric-only mode for the T8.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, starting with the T5's turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 models, with a supercharged and turbocharged engine, delivered 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined a gasoline engine with an electric motor, achieving 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. The XC90's AWD system, with the electric motor driving the rear wheels, provided excellent handling. Fuel economy for the T5 FWD was 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway, while the T8 offered 27 mpg combined and 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range. The extended range variant improved to 66 MPGe and a 36-mile EV range. The XC90's driving experience was smooth and enjoyable, with spirited acceleration and minimal body roll.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 was designed for comfort and style, with Volvo's renowned seats offering excellent adjustability. The heating system excelled in cold weather, quickly warming the cabin and clearing ice and snow. The XC60 provided smart storage solutions throughout the cabin, with intuitive controls for passengers. Cargo space was generous, with 21.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 63.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The XC60 could tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it versatile for various needs.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. While the third row was best suited for children, the XC90 excelled in cargo capacity, offering 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row, 41.8 cubic feet with it folded, and up to 85.7 cubic feet with both rows down. Towing capacity ranged from 4,000 to 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The XC90's interior was spacious and well-organized, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof enhancing the cabin's airy feel. The air-conditioning system performed admirably in hot weather, ensuring comfort for all passengers.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 featured the Sensus infotainment system, with a tablet-style touchpad interface that divided the screen into function quadrants. While intuitive for tech-savvy users, the system required a learning curve. Smartphone integration included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 also used the Sensus system, with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The system was intuitive but occasionally slow to respond. The Advanced package added a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. The XC90's standard Harman Kardon sound system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system for audiophiles. USB ports and a WiFi hotspot provided connectivity, while the Volvo Care app offered remote vehicle controls.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, collision avoidance, and lane-keeping aid. The Pilot Assist system offered semi-autonomous driving capabilities, and the XC60's top speed was limited to 112 mph for safety.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Its comprehensive safety suite included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. The Pilot Assist system provided assisted driving on highways, enhancing safety and comfort.