2022 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge adhered closely to traditional automotive design, making the transition from internal-combustion engines to electric power as seamless as possible for consumers. From the exterior, 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, which replaced the traditional airflow design needed for engine cooling. Other distinguishing features included the enlarged fuel-filler flap for the charge port, trim-specific 19-inch alloy wheels, and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40's design was marked by its Scandinavian sensibility, with a cabin that felt airy and spacious despite its compact SUV classification. The interior boasted harmonious lines and shapes, contributing to its premium feel, which Volvo had steadily cultivated over the years.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer presented a more athletic and robust appearance, thanks to its rear-drive platform. This allowed for a long and tall hood, a short front overhang, and a tapering greenhouse, creating a taut and dynamic look. The Explorer's diverse model lineup meant that the cabin quality varied, with higher trims offering a mix of quality materials, though some elements hinted at the base trim. The Explorer's design was characterized by its floating roof effect, achieved through blacked-out roof pillars, which added to its visual appeal. However, the interior sometimes fell short of expectations, with a mix of quality and questionable materials for its price point.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, driving two permanent magnet 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 kilometres per hour in just 4.9 seconds. The XC40 Recharge featured regenerative braking, which recaptured energy during deceleration, and offered a one-pedal driving mode for enhanced regenerative braking. Its low centre of gravity, due to the battery placement, contributed to its stable and planted handling. 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.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. The Explorer also offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, delivering a combined 318 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine was available, generating 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The Explorer's ride was robust, with a focus on traditional SUV characteristics, and it excelled in off-road situations with its Trail setting. Fuel consumption varied depending on the engine, with the twin-turbo V6 averaging 11.4 L/100 km.

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 a slightly cramped rear middle seat. 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 Ford Explorer provided ample comfort for families, with the option of a second-row bench seat for occasional five-passenger capacity. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to its limited space. Higher trims offered luxurious features like massaging front seats and heated second-row captain's chairs. The Explorer's cabin had practical storage solutions, though some opportunities for additional storage were missed. The cargo area offered 528 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with all rear seats folded.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a range of advanced technologies, including Pilot Assist for adaptive cruise control and lane centring. It featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. The system supported Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, with over-the-air updates for both the infotainment and vehicle software. However, the range display showed a percentage of charge rather than remaining kilometres, which could cause range anxiety for some drivers.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered two versions of its Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the voice recognition system was less advanced than Ford's newer Sync 4 technology, leading to some challenges in using voice commands. The Explorer also featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0 for autonomous parking.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with a comprehensive list of standard safety features. These included collision warning and avoidance, blind-spot information, lane keep assist, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. The XC40 Recharge also featured Volvo's Connected Safety system, which shared information about hazardous road conditions with other connected Volvo vehicles.

The 2022 Ford Explorer also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Explorer offered additional safety features with Co-Pilot360 Assist+, such as adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The system operated smoothly, though it occasionally issued unnecessary warnings about steering wheel grip.