The 2022 Volvo XC60 faces stiff competition in the luxury midsize SUV segment from posh rivals like the Porsche Macan
, BMW X3
, Audi Q5
, and more. Known for its commitment to safety and elegant Swedish designs, Volvo is one of the most popular American luxury brands, and the XC60 is one of its biggest sellers. The automaker’s flagship will have you thinking the “S” in SUV stands for stylish. It’s hard to deny the appeal of the XC60’s numerous driver assistance features and any of its three powertrain options—including a plug-in hybrid.
You may have done your homework on the Volvo XC60’s specs, but don’t forget to research the competition before you make a final decision. Here to help is Jerry
, the trustworthy super app
for finding affordable car insurance to make your car loan
payments more manageable, with a list of the eight top SUVs to consider against an XC60. 4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars 4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers 1. Porsche Macan
Starting price: $58,950 to $84,350
Selling points: Unique Porsche styling, exciting engine performance
Weak spot: Smaller-than-average cargo space, lacking standard interior features
With the Porsche Macan, there’s no question that the “S” in SUV stands for sport. Just look to its base turbocharged inline-four or significantly more powerful twin-turbo V6, and you’ll know why. These powertrains don’t necessarily provide as much utility as other SUVs, but what the Macan lacks in towing capacity it makes up for in sporty acceleration with 0-to-60 mph times of 5.0 or 3.5 seconds, respectively.
Compared to the XC60, the Porsche Macan is a top choice when it comes to luxury SUVs that pack a powerful punch. Its fuel economy rating of 25 combined mpg isn’t half bad, either. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to spring for some expensive package and trim upgrades if you want your Macan’s interior to feel as luxurious as its performance and exterior.
2. Mercedes-Benz GLC Class
Selling points: Luxurious interior and high-caliber standard equipment
Weak spot: Limited cargo volume, weak performance compared to rivals
On the flip side, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300
SUV may have you thinking the “V” stands for vanity. This compact crossover feels rich thanks to its exquisite quality of materials and design. Passengers practically drown in comfort, but take note—the space is much more suitable for people than additional cargo. The GLC 300’s Achilles heel? Let’s look at its powertrain.
The GLC 300 only offers a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder with standard RWD and the option to upgrade to Mercedes-Benz’s 4matic AWD. While the 4matic configuration improves acceleration, neither drivetrain does much for the GLC 300’s wow factor. It’s not a bad ride per se, but it favors comfort over capability—two qualities that the XC60 balances with ease.
3. Genesis GV70
Starting price: $42,595 to $63,545
Selling points: Sporty engine options and chassis, impressive interior quality
Weak spot: Compact second row
The Genesis GV70
is the manufacturer’s first foray into the compact luxury SUV segment and a successful one at that. Except for a few minor design flaws and a smaller-than-average second row, the GV70 has a daring design both inside and out that matches its performance capability. Either the 2.5-L turbocharged four-cylinder or 3.5-L turbocharged V6 are capable of delivering satisfying athleticism with 300 or 375 horsepower, respectively. Both are paired with standard AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Drivers and passengers will both benefit from a large infotainment center, a full suite of connectivity features, and standard advanced driver assistance features including adaptive cruise control.
4. BMW X3
Starting price: $44,695 to $58,795
Selling points: Practical, good fuel economy, capable handling
Weak spot: Antiquated cabin, small exterior mirrors, unrefined auto start/stop feature
The design of the X3
leans into the conservative side of BMW’s iconic style, but its performance leans into the manufacturer’s old-school driving edge. While the standard 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine isn’t the most exciting configuration on the block, it will have you easily gliding across the pavement. The M40i's 382-hp six-cylinder engine is much more suited to drivers seeking a little more thrill. Much like the XC60, you’re in for a competent and confident ride behind the wheel of a BMW X3
, and the cabin is well-fitted with plenty of accouterments and quality material. What the interior lacks in contemporary taste it makes up for with infotainment technology and comfortability features. These include a 10.3-inch touchscreen, a full suite of connectivity options, and 10-way power-adjustable front seats. MORE: Car loans for BMW 2022
5. Acura RDX
Starting price: $40,345 to $55,295
Selling points: Sporty handling, competitive price point with many standard features
Weak spot: Sluggish transmission
If you like the Volvo XC60 for its many standard features, then the 2022 Acura RDX
may be just the SUV to give it a run for its money—and for a better price! Upgrading with the Technology Package for enhanced audio, infotainment, and interior finishings is still a cheaper option than the XC60’s starting price ($43,745). A less favorable trait that both the XC60 and RDX share is that their infotainment centers can take some getting used to. The RDX falls behind when it comes to powertrain competency—the transmission behind the 272-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder is a tad unresponsive.
The fuel economy is average, although not quite as efficient as the XC60’s. Cargo space on the other hand is slightly more efficient than the XC60’s—smaller in technical space, but able to fit more thanks to its ergonomic design.
4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars 4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers 6. Audi Q5
Starting price: $44,695 to $66,495
Selling points: Several powertrain options (including a PHEV), ample standard tech
Weak spot: Smaller interior, unexciting performance
Much like the Volvo XC60, the 2023 Audi Q5 is available with three different powertrains, though you have many more options when it comes to trim configuration. This is also one of the only options on our list available as a plug-in hybrid starting at $56,595—very comparable to the 2022 XC60 Recharge’s starting price of $55,345.
The PHEV powertrain (denoted by the number “55”) is the most powerful with 362 horsepower, 369 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.5-second zero-to-60 time. The “40” powertrain is a 201-hp turbocharged four-cylinder and the “45” powertrain boosts that same four-cylinder’s output up to 261 hp. All three are competent, but options like the Macan and GV70 are more exciting.
Don’t sleep on the Q5’s technology! The standard infotainment setup is much more intuitive than the XC60’s and certain driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control come standard!
7. Lincoln Nautilus
Starting price: $45,285 to $67,905
Selling points: Striking interior, good for cruising down the highway
Weak spot: Underwhelming fuel efficiency, luxury features cost more
Considering its name calls to mind a large sea barge rather than a midsize SUV, it’s only fitting that the Lincoln Nautilus
is one of the larger and more relaxed of the XC60’s competitors. Getting up to speed isn’t thrilling by any means, but once there you’re in for a smooth, quiet ride. The design of the Nautilus’s cabin and infotainment setup makes an immediate impression, but the luxury stops there without a pricy upgrade. The mid-tier Reserve trim adds navigation, an enhanced Revel audio system, a sunroof, and at least $6,000 to the starting price. The Nautilus is also better off with the V6 engine upgrade, but once again, it comes at a cost.
8. Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio
Selling points: Impeccable performance, a full suite of standard features, a true super SUV
Weak spot: Skyrocketing starting price, small back row, shaky reliability
A price jump of over $40,000 may immediately knock the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio
off your shortlist of XC60 alternatives, but there’s no harm in dreaming. And this SUV's exquisite looks and performance are worth dreaming about. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio is a true driving masterpiece in the luxury SUV market. It has a single trim and engine configuration—a standard 505-hp twin-turbocharge 2.9-L V-6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. Standard driver assistance features include adaptive stop-n-go cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, lane departure, and lane-keeping assist.
Volvo XC60 vs. the competition
Now that you know the 2022 XC60’s competition, take a look at the specs side-by-side.
| | | | | | Fuel economy (city/highway/combined) |
---|
| | B5, B6, or plug-in hybrid T8 | | | | |
| | | | | | |
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 | | | | | | |
| | Turbo four-cylinder or Turbo V6 | | | | |
| | Turbo four-cylinder or turbo six-cylinder | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| | Turbo four-cylinder (40 or 45) or plug-in hybrid (55) | | | | |
| | turbo four-cylinder or V6 | | | | |
2022 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio | | | | | | |
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