2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Hyundai Kona

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, moving away from its traditionally conservative styling. This model retained the brand's signature boxy profile and rectangular grille but introduced softer lines and more chrome detailing, giving it a more modern and distinctive appearance. The LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights added a unique touch, enhancing the vehicle's character while maintaining its Volvo identity. The XC90's interior embraced "Swedish minimalism," offering high-quality materials and a thoughtfully arranged cabin. The use of matte-finish wood trim and the option for wool upholstery set it apart from other luxury SUVs, providing a refined yet understated luxury experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Kona received a significant makeover, enhancing its sophistication with a longer body, revised grille, and sporty new character lines. The updated LED lighting and new alloy wheel designs contributed to its modern look. Inside, the Kona's instrument panel and centre console were redesigned for a more spacious feel, with new ambient lighting adding a touch of elegance. The introduction of the sporty N Line and Kona N trims brought unique styling elements, such as body-colour cladding and exclusive interior features, elevating the Kona's athletic appeal. The Kona N, in particular, stood out with its aggressive design and performance-oriented features, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a sporty subcompact SUV.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centred around a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, boosting output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, also known as Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. While the XC90 provided ample power, the small engine's reliance on forced induction and electric assist meant it wasn't as flexible as some competitors' larger engines. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a quiet cabin, but its acceleration on electric power alone was limited.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered a diverse range of powertrains. The Essential and Preferred trims featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. The N Line trim introduced a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine with 195 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, mated to a seven-speed DCT. The performance-focused Kona N boasted a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 276 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque, paired with an N eight-speed wet DCT. The Kona N featured exclusive driving modes and performance enhancements, such as launch control and an electronic limited-slip differential. The Kona's handling was agile and composed, with the N Line offering a sporty driving experience, while the Kona N delivered exhilarating performance.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with headroom and legroom being average for the segment. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The optional power sunroof and upright roof profile created a spacious feel, while the standard four-zone climate control and optional air filtration system enhanced comfort. The XC90's cargo space was limited, with 317 litres available with all seats in place, expanding to 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded. Storage options were also limited, but a hands-free power tailgate was a convenient feature.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona, despite its compact size, offered ample front-seat comfort with good headroom and legroom. However, rear-seat occupants faced challenges, with limited headroom and legroom due to the vehicle's dimensions. The rear door openings were small, making access difficult. Cargo space was tight, with 544 litres available with all seats up, expanding to 1,296 litres with the rear seats folded. The Kona's compact size limited its practicality for carrying larger loads, and towing was not recommended.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, known for its simplicity and functionality. It included a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. The system's portrait-oriented touchscreen was intuitive, though the lack of physical buttons could be challenging for some users. The XC90 also offered a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and a head-up display as options.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona introduced more tech features, starting with an 8-inch display on the base trim, while higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and HD Radio. The Kona N Line and Kona N featured a premium audio system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard with the base screen, while the larger screen required wired connections. Hyundai BlueLink, available on most trims, provided connected services like remote start and vehicle tracking.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received top safety ratings, with the non-hybrid models earning a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona also received high safety ratings, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings in all IIHS crash tests. It offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance, with additional technologies available on higher trims.