2022 Cadillac XT5 vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was designed with a focus on easing the transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles. It closely resembled its gasoline counterpart, maintaining the same basic shape and structure, with subtle modifications. The most noticeable change was the solid panel in the grill, replacing the traditional open grill to optimize airflow. Other distinguishing features included the enlarged fuel-filler flap for the charge port, unique 19-inch alloy wheels, and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40's design was marked by its Scandinavian sensibility, offering a spacious and airy cabin despite its compact SUV classification. The interior was characterized by harmonious lines and premium materials, reinforcing Volvo's position in the luxury SUV market.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5, on the other hand, presented a blend of Cadillac's signature design elements with a compact and tall profile. It featured a bold grille, distinctive daytime running lights, and vertical taillights reminiscent of classic Cadillacs. The XT5's design varied slightly between the Premium Luxury and Sport models, with the former showcasing bright chrome and the latter featuring darker trim and a mesh grille. Inside, the XT5 offered a luxurious feel, especially with the optional Platinum Package, which enhanced the interior with premium materials. However, the design lacked a strong thematic identity, making it less distinctive compared to its competitors. The seats were comfortable but fell short of luxury standards, and the interior space was competitive, offering more legroom than its German rivals.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, driving two electric motors for all-wheel drive. It delivered an impressive 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The Recharge featured regenerative braking, which recaptured energy during deceleration, and offered a one-pedal driving mode to maximize efficiency. Its low centre of gravity, due to the battery placement, contributed to excellent handling and stability. The XC40 Recharge had a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with a combined fuel efficiency rating of 2.8 Le/100 km. It also supported DC fast-charging, reaching 80% charge in 40 minutes.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 provided ample power for everyday driving, with smooth and quick shifts. The XT5's performance suspension with adaptive dampers offered a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps while maintaining body control. The steering was well-suited for a luxury vehicle, providing nimbleness without excessive sensitivity. The XT5's cabin was notably quiet, enhancing the overall luxury experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfort features. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, or "frunk," providing additional storage space. Inside, the cabin featured ample cubbies and nooks for modern essentials, with comfortable front seats and adequate rear seating for outboard passengers. The XC40 Recharge offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and had a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 compared favourably in interior space to its German competitors, offering more front headroom and legroom in both rows. However, the seats, while comfortable, lacked the cushioning expected in a luxury vehicle. The XT5 provided 850 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,784 litres with them folded, surpassing its German rivals but falling short of the Infiniti QX50. The interior featured a small cubbyhole for storage, but the centre console was limited in space due to the infotainment controls.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, including Pilot Assist for highway driving. It featured a heat pump to extend range and a 9.3-inch touchscreen with Android Automotive operating system, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play integration. The infotainment system supported over-the-air updates, but the range display, showing percentage rather than distance, could induce range anxiety.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 came with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The optional Technology Package added a digital instrument cluster and head-up display. While the touchscreen was user-friendly, the secondary controls were less intuitive, with a rotary controller and capacitive touchpads that lacked feedback. The XT5's optional Bose Performance Series 14-speaker system delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with extensive standard safety features, including collision warning, blind-spot information, and lane-keeping assist. It featured a new sensor platform for enhanced active safety and Volvo's Connected Safety system for sharing road condition data with other connected Volvos.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The optional Driver Assist Package added adaptive cruise control and enhanced braking features. The XT5 received top scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though it had lower ratings for headlights and child seat anchor ease of use.