2022 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party fake mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, with its four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a Volkswagen-style symmetry in the rear. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its stylish and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage adopted a Germanic design approach, featuring a black dashboard with polished metallic accents and straightforward instrumentation. The interior was user-friendly, with buttons and knobs for easy control of the stereo, cabin temperature, and infotainment system, contributing to an upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution from Volvo's boxy past, embracing a more luxurious and family-friendly image. The XC90's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights paid homage to its Swedish roots, while the interior exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" with natural wood and metal trim. The XC90's commitment to sustainability was evident in its leather-free options, though Nappa leather was available for those seeking ventilated seats. The interior was a testament to luxury, with exquisite details like a sliding wood tambour cover and a crystal gear selector handle, making it a standout in its class.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options. Most models featured a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, providing a competitive yet unremarkable performance. The Sportage SX, however, boasted a more robust engine with 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all but the base LX FWD model. The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm, offering a spirited driving experience. The suspension system, featuring MacPherson struts and an independent multi-link rear suspension, provided a smooth and compliant ride, though the steering could have been sharper.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered a choice of three powertrains. The T5 models featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine with 250 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the T6 models added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The Recharge models combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. All models used an eight-speed automatic transmission and required Premium gasoline. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, thanks to the electric motor's early torque. The Recharge Inscription extended range model offered spirited acceleration and a refined driving experience, making it a joy to drive.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though on the smaller side of the compact crossover segment, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim provided front-seat occupants with perforated leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports, with heated rear seats on the SX trim. However, the Sportage's cargo space was limited, with 1,703 litres available with the second-row seats folded, falling short of competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The smart liftgate technology was a convenient feature, allowing hands-free access to the cargo area.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered versatile seating configurations, with six-passenger and seven-passenger options. The third row was suitable for children, while the second row provided easy access with a one-handed slide and fold mechanism. The XC90's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 1,855 litres available with the second and third rows folded. The SUV could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, making it suitable for light towing needs. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage options and a standard panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed admirably during a heatwave, ensuring a comfortable cabin environment.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive controls and logical onscreen menus. However, the UVO Intelligence system lagged behind in technological sophistication, lacking features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, offering tablet-like functionality with familiar gestures. The system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, though it was occasionally glitchy. The nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen was well-positioned for easy access, and the 12.3-inch digital instrument panel provided clear graphics. The Advanced package added a head-up display, a 360-degree camera system, and an advanced air cleaner. The XC90 also included keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system on higher trims, along with multiple USB ports for device connectivity.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The SX trim added adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX trim earning an Acceptable headlight rating, qualifying it for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, featuring blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, and more. The Pilot Assist system combined several safety features for enhanced highway driving. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, underscoring its commitment to safety.