2023 Hyundai Palisade vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge adhered closely to traditional automotive design, making it a seamless transition for those moving from internal-combustion engines to electric vehicles. 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 XC40 was a visually appealing vehicle, featuring Volvo's signature Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion created by thin pillars. Inside, the XC40 boasted a Scandinavian design sensibility, offering an airy and roomy cabin despite its compact SUV classification. The harmonious dash elements and premium finishes positioned the XC40 Recharge as a genuine luxury SUV.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade, as Hyundai’s largest SUV, made a bold statement with its updated styling. The new front fascia and squared-off grille gave it a commanding presence on the road. Standard features included LED accents and headlights, with premium rear accent lighting and a unique grille on the Ultimate Calligraphy trim. The Palisade offered a premium feel with its 20-inch alloy wheels and a new colour option, Robust Emerald, for the Ultimate Calligraphy models. Inside, the Palisade was stylish and bright, even with dark seats, thanks to the dual-pane sunroof. The interior featured premium materials, with Nappa leather in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim, and a range of seating configurations to accommodate up to eight passengers.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was a thrilling drive, powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack and two electric motors, delivering 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, impressive for a compact SUV. The gasoline XC40 models, T4 and T5, offered turbo four-cylinder engines with 0-100 km/h times of 8.5 and 6.4 seconds, respectively. The Recharge featured regenerative braking and a one-pedal drive option, enhancing energy efficiency and driving experience. Its low centre of gravity improved handling, and it offered a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade came with a 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain was competitive within its class, offering more power than some rivals. The Palisade featured an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and standard AWD in Canada. It excelled in towing, with a capacity of 2,268 kilograms and a dedicated Tow Mode. Fuel economy was rated at 12.6 L/100 km in the city, 9.5 on the highway, and 11.2 combined. While not designed for extreme off-roading, the Palisade provided a comfortable ride and capable light off-road performance.

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, ideal for storing the charging cable or small items. Inside, the cabin featured ample storage, including door pockets, a bag hook, and map pockets. The front seats were comfortable, while the rear seats were suitable for two passengers, with limited space for a third. 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 2023 Hyundai Palisade provided ample space for passengers and cargo. It offered 1,052 millimetres of front legroom, 1,077 in the second row, and 798 in the third, with a total passenger volume of 4,397 litres. The Palisade featured a one-touch seat slide for easy access to the third row and a hands-free smart liftgate. Cargo space measured 509 litres behind the third row, 1,297 litres behind the second, and 2,447 litres with all but the front seats folded. The Palisade catered to passengers with HVAC vents in all rows and numerous cupholders.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with advanced technology, including Pilot Assist for highway driving and a heat pump to extend range. The infotainment system featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. It offered Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity. The system supported over-the-air updates, though the range display showed a percentage of charge rather than distance, which could cause range anxiety.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system in higher trims. It supported multiple Bluetooth connections and offered numerous USB charging ports. The Palisade featured a 4.2-inch driver info display or a 12.3-inch digital cluster in higher trims, with an in-car intercom and a head-up display on the Ultimate Calligraphy. Hyundai’s Bluelink system provided remote access and management features, including remote start presets and seat heating or cooling.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received a 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, which shared road condition data with other connected Volvos.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade also earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It came with Hyundai’s Smart Sense suite, including forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. New standard features included blind-spot collision avoidance and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance. The Palisade offered advanced safety features like Highway Driving Assist and a digital rearview mirror on higher trims.