2022 Mazda CX-30 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.

As a brand, Mazda has been punching above its weight for well over a decade now. Whether it’s the three-row CX-9 SUV or Mazda3 compact car, you can expect a higher-quality interior and a more refined ride than respective rivals in a given segment. This is no different for the 2022 Mazda CX-30.

The CX-30 is a subcompact crossover SUV introduced as a 2020 model, supplementing the similar-sized Mazda CX-3. It carries over to the 2022 model year, just as the CX-3 has been discontinued. The CX-30 addresses the shortcomings of the CX-3 without losing any of that crossover’s positive attributes. The CX-30 has a more spacious cabin than the CX-3, but retains the fun-to-drive nature, and has an even more upscale cabin. Read on to learn how Mazda’s new subcompact SUV stands out within this popular vehicle segment.