2022 GMC Yukon vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 GMC Yukon was a chrome lover's dream. Even the base SLE model had enough shiny elements to give it a premium look. As you moved up to the Denali trim, the chrome became even more prominent, especially with the vast, multi-dimensional grille that resembled an industrial-sized cheese grater. This design choice gave the Denali a unique and commanding presence, further accentuated by the C-shaped headlights and 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels. The off-road-oriented AT4 trim also had its own distinct look, featuring a dark grille, skid plate, and horizontal red recovery hooks. Inside, the Yukon offered a spacious and tastefully crafted cabin with standard seating for eight, or seven with the available second-row captain's chairs. The Denali trim featured four exclusive interior designs, with our test vehicle showcasing the Teak/Light Shale color combo. The AT4 trim had a Jet Black interior with Brandy accents and dark brushed aluminum details. All three rows were comfortable, even for taller passengers, and the Denali's interior added layers of textures and premium materials. The 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from Volvo's past boxy designs. The front end was stout and solid without being overly flashy, and the grille was assertive yet not too big. The "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern flair, and the overall dimensions leaned toward rectilinear without resembling a toaster. Our test vehicle, an AWD Ultimate trim, featured 21-inch wheels and Platinum Gray paint with brown undertones, adding richness and depth to the color. Inside, the XC90's design was elegant and minimalist. The steering wheel featured two-tone leather and a three-spoke design, while the seats were covered in luxurious Nappa leather. The interior also boasted metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, an Orrefors crystal shift knob, and wood deco inlays. The minimalist design extended to the front cabin, which had few physical controls, giving it a clean and modern look.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered three engine choices, including a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, standard on all trims except the Denali. The Denali and AT4 trims featured a 6.2-liter V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. A new 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine, available on all trims except the AT4, delivered 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and four-wheel drive optional, except on the AT4, which came with standard 4WD. The Yukon's maximum towing capacity was 8,400 pounds with the 5.3-liter engine and the Max Trailering Package. Our test vehicle, a Yukon Denali with the 6.2-liter V8, had an 8,200-pound tow rating. The independent rear suspension provided better handling and a smoother ride, although some bouncing was noted over rutted pavement. The optional air ride adaptive suspension further improved ride quality and off-road capability. The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines with mild-hybrid technology, replacing the older T5 and T6 engines. The B5 engine, with a turbocharger and 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The B6 engine, featuring both a supercharger and turbocharger, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency and smoothness, although the gains were minimal. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable and reserved, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle handled well, with minimal roll through corners despite its size. Road and wind noise were well-insulated, and the brakes provided a solid pedal feel. The XC90 lacked extensive off-road features, focusing instead on a straightforward driving experience.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered ample space for passengers and cargo, especially with the redesign that increased third-row legroom by over 10 inches to 34.9 inches. Cargo space behind the third row also grew to 25.5 cubic feet. The second-row seats folded flat, and power fold-and-tumble bucket seats were available for easier access to the third row. The power-folding third-row seats and power-sliding center console added convenience and additional storage space. The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was elegant but had some space and storage limitations. The front seats were comfortable, but there was limited cubby space for smaller items. The second row was reasonably spacious but challenging to adjust, and accessing the third row was difficult with the standard bench seat. Cargo space was 12.5 cubic feet with the third row in place, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.

The 2022 GMC Yukon featured a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information center, a 15-inch head-up display, and a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bose 14-speaker audio system. The rear-seat media system included dual 12.6-inch LCD HD touchscreens compatible with various media formats. The 2023 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display ran Google OS, featuring Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other Google services. The 12.3-inch driver information display also showed Google Maps. While the system was advanced, it required using the touchscreen for many functions, which could be frustrating.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came with GMC's Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. The Pro Safety Plus package added lane-change alert, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Yukon received a four-star overall rating from NHTSA but had not been tested by IIHS. The 2023 Volvo XC90 was known for its safety, earning a five-star rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist technology, which helped maintain distance and lane position.