The top of the Volvo SUV lineup is where you’ll find the XC90. This impressive luxury SUV brings a new trim and revised qualities to the mix for 2025.
It might seem a bit odd, but the revised and reworked models of this Volvo SUV won’t hit the showrooms during the first quarter of 2025. Those will come a bit later, but it might be worth the wait. These new models have a revised front end, a redesigned dashboard, updated interior materials, and improved sound-deadening materials. These changes make the XC90 a little better than before, but other changes take it over the top.
What else changed?
In addition to the small tweaks mentioned, Volvo gave its largest SUV an updated suspension and a new 11,2-inch infotainment display. These updates allow it to ride a bit smoother and present you with a much better screen than before. The entry-level Core trim now rides on a set of 20-inch wheels, leaving the 19s in the dust.
Like many vehicles, the new XC90 will be sold alongside the current model, giving shoppers two distinct choices when looking for the right three-row luxury SUV to drive. The Recharge name has been dropped from the T8 version. This name was replaced with PHEV, which is a little more descriptive than the Recharge name.
The Ultimate trim has been renamed Ultra and can be had with any of the three powertrains available for the XC90. This is also the first year of an all-electric EX90 version, showing that Volvo is taking an important step forward.
What powers this Volvo SUV?
Every Volvo XC90 powertrain has an electric assist system, with the B5 and B6 models getting help from a 48-volt electric motor, making them mild hybrid systems. The B5 powertrain consists of a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 247 horsepower. If you move up to the B6 powertrain, you’ll have 295 ponies on tap, giving you a bit more acceleration and power. The PHEV T8 model is the most powerful, producing 455 horsepower to give you the quickness and drive desired. Every XC90 comes with AWD and an 8-speed automatic transmission to send that power to the wheels.
A sporty feeling
The XC90 leans around curves, but that’s expected of a three-row midsize SUV. Despite that lean, this SUV delivers excellent steering responses and accurate handling that makes it a pleasant SUV to drive and enjoy on any road. This Volvo seems to split the difference between being too light and too heavy on the steering perfectly, ensuring you have the sportiness you want when you get behind the wheel.
The right XC90 trim matters
If you’re searching for a midsize luxury SUV that can pull your boat or trailer, the XC90 could be the right vehicle for you. If you choose the B6 or T8 powertrain, you’ll have up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. The B5 only tows 4,000 pounds, which makes it good for light-duty work.
Electric driving with the T8
The Volvo XC90 with the T8 powertrain can drive up to 33 miles on electric power. This powertrain has a 14.9-kWh battery pack to give it more power and a decent electric range from a PHEV SUV. The battery can be charged using a Level 2 at-home charging system.
If you stick with the B5 or B6 powertrain, you’ll have respectable fuel mileage figures at your disposal. The B5 does the best with 22 city/27 hwy mpg while the B6 returns 20 city/26 hwy mpg, giving you reasonable fuel mileage figures.
Refined excellent meets you in the cabin
Volvo vehicles are well-known for being safe and protective of passengers. That’s certainly the case with the latest version of the XC90, but this SUV also features an impressive cabin. The styling is restrained enough to be attractive, with good design elements and high-quality materials that create a warm feeling. The latest version has improved materials, a redesigned dashboard, a revised center console, and new textile upholstery. You can have five, six, or seven seats in this SUV, making it easy to have the seating and cargo configuration you’re looking for in your luxury SUV.
Which Volvo XC90 should you buy?
When you want the most value out of your Volvo SUV, the Plus trim wit the optional B6 powertrain could be the best choice for you. The seven-seat configuration is the standard layout, which makes it the most affordable way to have this impressive SUV. The newer an updated version of this 2025 model-year luxury SUV has a nominal price increase, which is worth the cost.
This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning a commission is given should you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no cost to you. All products shown are researched and tested to give an accurate review for you.