2023 Honda HR-V vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Honda HR-V underwent a significant styling transformation, shedding some of its previous quirky charm for a more sophisticated and modern appearance. The lowered beltline and simplified detailing contributed to a sleeker look, with cleaner lines and fewer interruptions. The black molding strips on the roof were removed, and the windshield wipers were discreetly tucked under the hood's lip. The test model was showcased in a Nordic Forest Pearl colour, adding to its refined aesthetic. Inside, the HR-V's interior echoed the refinement trend set by the 2022 Civic, featuring a metal honeycomb grille that concealed the vents and touch-sensitive reading lights, enhancing its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 represented a significant departure from Volvo's past boxy designs, showcasing a purposeful yet understated style. The front end appeared stout and solid, with an assertive grille and the signature "Thor’s Hammer" headlights adding a modern flair. The XC90's dimensions leaned towards rectilinear, but it was far from the toaster-like designs of the past. The test vehicle, in Ultimate trim, featured 21-inch wheels and a Platinum Grey paint with brown undertones, adding richness and depth. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with its two-tone leather steering wheel, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery, all contributing to a minimalist yet sophisticated interior.

The 2023 Honda HR-V was powered by a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque, an improvement over the previous model. The updated CVT included a Step-Shift function to mimic traditional automatic transmission sounds, although paddle shifters were no longer available. Drivers could choose from Normal, Snow, or ECON drive modes, with Sport mode available for a more dynamic experience. Despite being quieter than its predecessor, the HR-V was still noticeably noisy at higher speeds. The new suspension and widened tracks made it surprisingly fun to drive, though it lacked the power of some competitors.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the B6 engine with mild-hybrid technology, replacing the older T5 and T6 engines. This powertrain delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, slightly less than the previous T6 engine, but with improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The mild-hybrid system used a lithium-ion battery pack to power a 13-volt starter generator, enhancing fuel-saving features like auto stop-start technology. The XC90 offered a reserved yet enjoyable driving experience, with quick acceleration and a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its size, the XC90 handled corners well, and its brakes inspired confidence.

The 2023 Honda HR-V, a subcompact SUV, offered a well-thought-out interior with a centre console featuring a shelf for drive mode controls and USB ports. The fastback design slightly reduced rear-seat headroom, but cargo space remained competitive, with 691 litres with the rear seats up and 1,559 litres with them folded. The second-generation HR-V featured a 60/40 split rear seat with a higher seating position for easier entry and egress. Passenger volume varied slightly between trims, with the EX-L offering a bit more space.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was elegant but had limited cubby space for smaller items. The second row was comfortable, but accessing the third row was challenging. The XC90 offered 356 litres of cargo space with the third row in place, expanding to 1,183 litres with the seats folded, and a maximum of 1,856 litres. While it fell short of some competitors in cargo capacity, the XC90 drove like a smaller car, making it a practical choice for those seeking a three-row SUV.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a tablet-style infotainment display with physical controls for power and volume. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all trims, with wireless versions available on the EX-L. The EX-L also boasted a 9-inch infotainment display with Smart Shortcuts and a wireless charging pad. Standard features included a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, Bluetooth connectivity, and a four-speaker audio system, with upgrades available on higher trims.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display ran on Google OS, integrating Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant. The system offered natural-language recognition and could be controlled via Google Home devices. While the tech was impressive, some functions were buried within the touchscreen interface, which could be frustrating. Keyless entry was standard, with a head-up display available as an option.

The 2023 Honda HR-V came standard with the Honda Sensing suite, including adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. New features for 2023 included traffic-sign recognition and traffic jam assist. The HR-V received a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, though the NHTSA had not yet rated it.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, with a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The XC90's Pilot Assist technology helped maintain distance from other vehicles and provided lane-keeping assistance.