2023 Honda CR-V vs 2022 Volvo XC40

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 outside, it closely resembled its gasoline counterpart, with subtle differences like a solid panel in the grill and the absence of tailpipes. The vehicle maintained Volvo's signature aesthetic, featuring Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion, all while offering a luxurious and spacious interior with a Scandinavian design sensibility.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V adopted a more conservative and slightly aggressive design with its blunt nose, long hood, and stretched wheelbase. While it lacked the personality of its predecessor, the new styling was expected to age well. The CR-V EX-L featured 18-inch alloy wheels and leather-wrapped interior elements, with a dashboard inspired by the latest Civic. The interior was praised for its quality and simplicity, offering a larger touchscreen infotainment system and additional features like a power rear liftgate and parking sensors.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, delivering 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque through its dual electric motors. This setup allowed the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The vehicle featured regenerative braking and a one-pedal drive option, enhancing its efficiency and driving experience. With a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, the XC40 Recharge offered a fuel efficiency rating of 2.8 Le/100 km combined.

The 2023 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, was equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. While the engine provided ample power for a compact SUV, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) detracted from the driving experience with its droning noise during acceleration. Despite this, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, offering a smooth and engaging drive. The CR-V achieved a fuel efficiency rating of 8.4 L/100 km combined, with our test vehicle averaging 8.1 L/100 km on a mountainous route.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and comfortable seating. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, providing additional storage space. Inside, the XC40 featured ample cubbies and nooks, with comfortable front seats and a slightly cramped rear middle seat. The cargo area offered up to 1,628 litres of space with the rear seats folded, and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2023 Honda CR-V was touted as the roomiest model yet, with a low seating position that provided excellent outward visibility. The second row offered more space, resembling a midsize model with ample legroom and adjustable seatback recline positions. The CR-V featured numerous storage options, including a large centre armrest bin and door panel storage. The cargo area provided 1,113 litres of space, expandable to 2,166 litres with the rear seats folded, though slightly reduced in the Hybrid model.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, including Pilot Assist and a heat pump to extend range. The infotainment system featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. While the system offered over-the-air updates, the range display showed a percentage of charge rather than remaining kilometres, which could cause range anxiety for some drivers.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with the EX-L trim offering a larger 9-inch display. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an upgraded sound system. While the technology was an improvement over the previous model, it did not exceed competitors in terms of features, and some desirable upgrades were only available in the top-tier Touring Hybrid trim.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including collision warning, blind-spot information, and lane keep assist. The vehicle also featured a new sensor platform and Volvo’s Connected Safety system, enhancing its active safety capabilities.

The 2023 Honda CR-V improved its driver-assist systems under the Honda Sensing umbrella, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist as standard. New features included a seatbelt reminder, driver monitoring system, and traffic sign recognition. The CR-V was built with Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure and was expected to excel in crash protection, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.