What To Know
- The Ford Explorer and Volvo XC90 are two of the most popular SUVs on the market, each offering a unique blend of performance, luxury, and versatility.
- Both the Ford Explorer and Volvo XC90 come equipped with a host of features and amenities, including a touchscreen infotainment system, a premium audio system, and a panoramic sunroof.
- The Volvo XC90 offers a more comprehensive warranty than the Ford Explorer, with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.
The Ford Explorer and Volvo XC90 are two of the most popular SUVs on the market, each offering a unique blend of performance, luxury, and versatility. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll put these two titans head-to-head to determine which one comes out on top.
Performance: Power and Efficiency Under the Hood
1. Engine Options: The Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, including a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged V6, and a 3.3-liter hybrid V6. The Volvo XC90, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
2. Power and Torque: When it comes to power, the Ford Explorer‘s 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 reigns supreme, delivering an impressive 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. The Volvo XC90’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, offering a more balanced performance.
3. Fuel Efficiency: The Ford Explorer’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is the most fuel-efficient option, delivering an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Volvo XC90’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Interior: Comfort, Convenience, and Connectivity
1. Seating and Space: The Ford Explorer offers seating for up to seven passengers, with a spacious cabin that provides ample headroom and legroom for all occupants. The Volvo XC90 also offers seating for up to seven passengers, but its cabin feels more cramped, especially in the third row.
2. Features and Amenities: Both the Ford Explorer and Volvo XC90 come equipped with a host of features and amenities, including a touchscreen infotainment system, a premium audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. However, the Volvo XC90 offers a more refined and luxurious interior, with high-quality materials and a sleek Scandinavian design.
3. Cargo Capacity: The Ford Explorer offers a generous cargo space of 87.8 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. The Volvo XC90 provides a slightly smaller cargo area, with 85.7 cubic feet of space with the second and third rows folded down.
Safety: Protecting What Matters Most
1. Safety Features: Both the Ford Explorer and Volvo XC90 have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including airbags, traction control, and anti-lock brakes.
2. Driver Assistance Technologies: The Volvo XC90 offers a more comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies than the Ford Explorer, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features help to enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue during long journeys.
Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between the Ford Explorer and Volvo XC90 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize power and performance, the Ford Explorer is the clear winner. However, if you value luxury, refinement, and advanced safety features, the Volvo XC90 is the better choice.
Ford Explorer vs Volvo: A Deeper Dive into the Details
1. Design and Styling: The Ford Explorer features a rugged and muscular design, while the Volvo XC90 exudes a sleek and sophisticated look. The choice between the two depends on your personal aesthetic preferences.
2. Off-Road Capabilities: The Ford Explorer offers better off-road capabilities than the Volvo XC90, thanks to its available four-wheel drive system and higher ground clearance. If you frequently venture off the beaten path, the Ford Explorer is the better choice.
3. Towing Capacity: The Ford Explorer has a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds, while the Volvo XC90 can tow up to 5,000 pounds. If you need a vehicle that can handle heavy towing tasks, the Ford Explorer is the better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which vehicle has a better warranty?
- The Volvo XC90 offers a more comprehensive warranty than the Ford Explorer, with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.
2. Which vehicle is more reliable?
- Both the Ford Explorer and Volvo XC90 have good reliability ratings, but the Volvo XC90 has a slight edge in terms of overall reliability.
3. Which vehicle has a lower cost of ownership?
- The Ford Explorer typically has a lower cost of ownership than the Volvo XC90, due to its lower maintenance and repair costs.