2022 Cadillac XT6 vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge adhered closely to traditional automotive design, making it a familiar choice for those transitioning from internal-combustion engines to electric vehicles. Its exterior closely resembled the gasoline version, with subtle differences like a solid panel in the grill, trim-specific alloy wheels, and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40's design was both stylish and functional, featuring Volvo's signature Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion. Inside, the XC40 boasted a spacious and airy cabin, characterized by harmonious design elements and a premium feel, reflecting Volvo's Scandinavian design sensibility.

In contrast, the 2022 Cadillac XT6 presented a more conservative and understated design. Its exterior featured polished 20-inch alloy wheels and a sleek black paint job, but its tall and narrow appearance was somewhat bland. The XT6's interior, while lined with rich materials, lacked the luxury feel expected at its price point. The dashboard and controls were reminiscent of other GM models, and the analog gauges seemed outdated compared to competitors. Despite its comfortable seating and climate control, the XT6's interior space felt unexpectedly narrow, and its third-row seating was cramped for adults.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge delivered an exhilarating driving experience, powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack and dual electric motors, producing 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. This setup enabled the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, making it a standout performer among compact SUVs. The Recharge's regenerative braking system and one-pedal driving mode enhanced efficiency and driving enjoyment. With a lower centre of gravity due to its battery placement, the XC40 Recharge offered excellent handling and stability. It boasted a combined fuel efficiency rating of 2.8 Le/100 km and a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6, on the other hand, offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 310 horsepower. While the V6 provided sufficient power, it lacked the turbocharged punch of its competitors. The XT6's adaptive-damping suspension and available Brembo brakes contributed to its athletic performance, but it leaned more towards comfort than excitement. Fuel economy for the V6 was rated at 11.5 L/100 km combined, with our test vehicle achieving 12.0 L/100 km during testing. The XT6's driving dynamics were competent, but it didn't deliver the same level of driving enjoyment as the XC40 Recharge.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and a comfortable cabin. Its front trunk, or "frunk," provided additional storage space, while the cabin featured ample cubbies and nooks for modern essentials. The front seats were comfortable, and the rear seats, though compact, accommodated passengers reasonably well. The XC40 Recharge offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6, while offering comfortable front seats and a heated steering wheel, fell short in terms of interior space. The second-row captain's chairs provided decent legroom, but the third-row seating was cramped and challenging to access. Storage space was limited, with small cubbies and bins. The XT6 offered 357 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 1,200 litres with the rear seats folded, and a maximum volume of 2,229 litres.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a host of advanced technologies, including Pilot Assist for highway driving and a heat pump to extend range. Its infotainment system featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. The system offered seamless integration with Google services and over-the-air updates. However, the XC40's range reporting relied on a percentage of charge, which could induce range anxiety for some drivers.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered a mix of impressive and outdated technologies. While it featured a digital rearview mirror, Night Vision, and Super Cruise, its analog gauges and 8-inch touchscreen felt dated. The infotainment system, though intuitive, had usability issues with touch-sensing buttons and counterintuitive illumination. The available Bose audio system and digital rear camera were highlights, but the head-up display was less impressive compared to other GM vehicles.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, reflecting Volvo's commitment to safety. It came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The XC40 Recharge also featured a new sensor platform for enhanced active safety capabilities and Volvo's Connected Safety system for sharing road condition information.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered a wide range of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The standout feature was the Super Cruise system, which allowed for hands-free highway driving. However, Super Cruise had limitations, particularly in challenging conditions. The XT6 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, ensuring strong crash protection.