2022 Kia Sportage vs 2021 Volvo XC90

Volvo may be known for sensible station wagons, but the XC90 SUV is the Swedish automaker’s de facto flagship. The current generation debuted design features, technology, and powertrains that have since found their way into most other Volvo models. Several years into the current-generation model’s lifecycle, the XC90 is no longer a trendsetter, but remains Volvo’s contender in the competitive midsize luxury SUV segment, with the automaker’s typical emphasis on safety features.

The current-generation XC90 launched for the 2016 model year, so most competitors—including the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE—have been updated or redesigned since then. The Cadillac XT6 and Lincoln Aviator didn’t even exist when this generation of XC90 launched.

A redesigned version is expected to arrive soon, so changes to the 2021 XC90 are minimal. All 2021 Volvo models are now limited to 180 kilometres per hour for safety reasons. The XC90 also gets a handful of newly standard tech features, and some small cosmetic changes.

Volvo offers the XC90 in three trim levels—Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription—with three powertrain options: T5 and T6 gasoline engines, and the T8 plug-in hybrid. Our test car was a range-topping T8 Recharge Inscription, combining the top Inscription trim level with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which has the highest output of the three.

The 2022 Kia Sportage is a stylish, sophisticated, safe, and–with its available turbocharged engine–speedy SUV. Kia hasn't redesigned it since 2017, but that doesn't mean you should cross it off of your shopping list. Even the technology is up to date.

Compact in size, the 2022 Sportage comes in LX, LX Nightsky, EX, EX Premium S, and SX trim levels with front- or all-wheel drive. LX Nightsky trim is new, replacing the LX S version for 2022. The Sportage EX gains a standard panoramic sunroof for 2022.

In Canada, MSRP ranges from $25,995 to $40,195, plus a destination charge of $1,850. Our test vehicle for this review was an SX, which comes with the turbocharged engine and standard AWD and was also equipped with a cargo mat and a tow hitch. The sticker price came to $42,746, including destination (Canadian, estimated). (A U.S. model is shown; the exterior colour on the test unit is not available in Canada, where the SX comes only with red, white, grey, or black paint.)