Even with the extended model cycles manufacturers are employing these days, 10 years in production — with but minor changes — is a pretty long time. That the second-generation Volvo XC90 has reached this milestone and remains one of the most desirable models in its class, speaks well to the brilliance of the XC90’s basic design.
The second-generation Volvo XC90 remains one of the most desirable models in its class.
One of the nicest looking midsize SUVs you’ll find, the Volvo features an elegant, yet simple interior treatment, exceptional comfort, reasonable cargo capacity and a nice selection of powerplant choices.
While a number of significant changes are anticipated later this year, early 2025 models, such as the one featured are largely the same as 2024 models. This version will be sold alongside the refreshed models until they’re all gone.
2025 model year updates
Among the changes for the “new” 2025s is the discontinuation of the “Recharge” designation. Those models are now simply referred to as “PHEVs.” Visual changes will include a new front-end treatment and a revised dash, which includes a new touchscreen display.
Suspension systems will be updated and more insulation will be fitted to make the flagship Volvo SUV even quieter. Again though, that’s what’s in the pipeline.
Let’s get back to what’s on dealer’s lots right now.
Among the changes for the “new” 2025s is the discontinuation of the “Recharge” designation.
Powertrains and fuel economy
The engineering wizards in Gothenburg have embraced electrification in a huge way. Every XC90 powertrain includes a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine teamed with a 48-volt electric motor. So configured, the base B5 trimmed XC90 claims 247 horsepower @ 5,400 rpm and 258 pound-feet of torque @ 1,800. The B6 upgrade offers 295 hp @ 5,400 rpm and 310 lb-ft @ 2,100.
The plug-in hybrid XC90 T8 powertrain, with which I spent a week, returns a total system output of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. Even better, the T8 Recharge is capable of traveling up to 32 miles on electric power alone. It also tows 5,000 pounds.
Regarding fuel consumption, I saw an overall figure of 27 MPG from the all-wheel drive system. By the way, all-wheel drive, as well as an 8-speed automatic transmission is standard — regardless of your powertrain choice.
Interior accommodations
The XC90’s basic exterior design hasn’t changed much during its 10-year run, but it’s still one of the most appealing models on the road.
Scandinavians have a penchant for deriving elegance from simplicity, and the Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge capably exemplifies this characteristic. High-grade materials and tasteful color combinations are employed in a design that is at once intuitive and attractively laid out. The crystal gear shifter is a particularly nice touch.
Granted, the interior could offer more carrying capacity, as the Volvo trails some of its fiercest competitors in this regard. However, none of them offer this much style at a similar price point. And, few of them offer the quiet composure of the Volvo at speed.
While the XC90 does offer seating for seven, reserving the rearmost seating positions for smaller children will return the best result.
Comfort, convenience and safety tech
We’re talking about the top-of-the-line Volvo SUV model here, so tech is abundant. The focal point of the dash is a 9-inch touchscreen, which serves as the interface for all comfort and convenience functions. CarPlay and Android compatibility are also standard.
One of the nicest looking midsize SUVs you’ll find, the Volvo features an elegant, yet simple interior treatment.
The climate control system in my T8 tester was capable of ionizing incoming air. Messrs. Bowers & Wilkins graced my ears with their mastery of audio reproduction in an automotive setting. The heated and ventilated front seats were complemented by a heated steering wheel and heated second-row seats as well.
The head up display helped me keep my eyes on the road where they could do the most good. Additional safety tech included forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, as well as blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and lane departure warning. “My” Volvo was also capable of keeping itself centered in its lane with no input from me for short periods of time.
Driving impressions
There’s something truly remarkable about having so much power on tap in such a respectable looking car. Employing my wholly unscientific approach to measuring zero to 60 times, I consistently saw the speedometer needle eclipse 60 in the time it took me to say, “1001, 1002, 1003, 1004, 1000 — five.”
While the XC90 does offer seating for seven, reserving the rearmost seating positions for smaller children will return the best result.
On the other hand, despite its quickness off the line, the XC90 T8 Recharge does exhibit a fair amount of body roll in the corners. Not so much as to discourage you from going quickly, but enough to make you approach turns with a modicum of respect.
On the other hand, the electric power-assisted steering is both remarkably accurate and reassuringly weighted. Ride quality is also a strong suit with the optional air suspension system smoothing out pavement irregularities. Handling around town and parking the XC90 is effortless.
In summary
All in all, the 2025 Volvo XC90, despite its advancing years, remains solidly in the hunt among midsize luxury SUV offerings. Handsome, nicely equipped, tasteful, versatile, high quality and safe, the Volvo XC90 platform is quite impressive. What’s more, Volvo covers the first three years or 36,000 miles of scheduled service at no additional cost.
Pricing starts at $57,400.
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