Volvo XC90 Review 2024
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Volvo XC90 At A Glance
Incredibly refined and quiet on the move. High quality cabin with room for seven adults. Well equipped as standard.
Gargantuan size can make parking a challenge. T8 plug-hybrid doesn't have a long range. A pricey proposition.
Insurance Groups are between 37–44
On average it achieves 64% of the official MPG figure
Those looking for a seven-seater luxury SUV want a car that majors on style, sophistication, practicality and safety. Generous space and clever seating are a must but not at the expense of plushness. Will a model that's a decade old, albeit fresh from its second facelift, still have what it takes to be a brilliant all-rounder that’s worthy of anyone’s consideration? Read on for our full Volvo XC90 review.
Today's luxury 4x4s are immensely popular, arguably down to the trailblazing original Volvo XC90. There weren’t many SUVs at the time that could carry seven people - and lots of their stuff - in luxurious comfort. That made it very popular with large, well-to-do families.
These days, however, prestige seven-seat SUVs are absolutely everywhere, so it takes something really special to stand out from the crowd. And yet, the latest Volvo XC90 still manages to offer a little something different to the countless others with which it competes.
Despite being ten years old, it's still one of the Swedish brand's best-sellers and while the electric Volvo EX90 might be its future, the XC90 has been given its second – and most comprehensive – update. Not only has the exterior been refreshed but the interior has come in for attention, most notably around it's infotainment system.
Among the most in-demand of the XC90's rivals is the Land Rover Defender 110, although it's far more capable off-road than the Volvo. Its sheer bullk can be off-putting for some, which presumably explains why there's still a market for the softer and more versatile Land Rover Discovery.
Providing a sportier, more engaging driving experience to the Volvo is the BMW X5. It's a five-seater as standard but most of the versions can be optioned with a third row of seats, although they're better suited to kids than adults. Those who need seven seats for grown-up may prefer the larger BMW X7 which comes with a similarly inflated price tag.
That approach is near replicated elsewhere — while the mainly five-seater Mercedes GLE is closer to the Volvo in terms of price, for additional adult-friendly seats and heightened levels of practicality, it's the gargantuan Mercedes GLS that's closer to what the XC90 offers.
Let's not forget the evergreen Audi Q7 a seven-seater of a similar vintage to the Volvo. Like the aforementioned alternatives, the Q7 is available with a diesel engine, an option removed from the XC90 some years ago.
What's fresh about the updated Volvo XC90? From the outside the changes are obvious from the front, with a reprofiled bumper, enhanced Thor's hammer LED lights and an unusual asymmetrical design for the grille.
The changes are more subtle at the rear, with a revised bumper and a darker tint for the tail lights. Overall, the design remains clean, contemporary and covetable — it doesn't seem old, merely familiar.
Inside and the XC90's interior is better than even - the quality of finish has been amplified. The most pronounced change over the earlier cars is the new 11.2-inch touchscreen that replaces the older 9.0-inch display.
On the road, the XC90 is a very easy-going car, concentrating on wafting its occupants along in comfort, rather than trying to provide any excitement and it’s all the better for it. When the road turns twisty there’s enough control to keep things feeling stable and assured, so it delivers a good balance of abilities.
An automatic gearbox, four-wheel drive and hill descent control are all provided as standard across the board but this is very much a road-focused SUV that’s designed to tackle school runs, rather than green lanes. Today's engine choices are the B5 (P) mild hybrid but the more desirable choice is the T8 plug-in hybrid variant thanks to its hugely impressive mix of performance and economy.
It goes without saying that the XC90 is among the strongest cars in its class for safety. That’s thanks not only to the Swedish firm’s peerless know-how in this area but also the vast amount of safety equipment squeezed into the car. Let’s face it, safety has to be one of the top priorities in any car designed to ferry lots of people around.
So, the Volvo XC90 is a really good all-rounder that’s worthy of anyone’s consideration – excellent in most areas, no worse than there-or-thereabouts in the remainder.
Reviews for Volvo XC90's top 3 rivals
Volvo XC90 handling and engines
Volvo XC90 2024: Handling and ride quality
Even on its standard suspension, the Volvo XC90 soaks up most of what a scruffy road surface can throw at it, keeping life nice and settled. While it doesn’t isolate you from low-speed bumps and ruts quite as well as some rivals - the Audi Q7 for example - things settle down more at higher speeds.
An adaptive air suspension called Active Four-C Chassis is also available (either as an optional extra or standard on Plus and Ultra trims) and it makes the XC90 feel a touch more fluid over potholes and speed bumps. That was even when on optional 22-inch alloy wheels that our test car came with.
The handling is very capable with lots of grip and decent body control, so it feels stable and assured in bends. It’s not as much fun as a BMW X5 or on a twisty road but it feels considerably less wallowy than a Land Rover Discovery.
Volvo XC90 2024: Engines
The latest Volvo XC90 keeps things nice and simple with the choice to two engines - a mild hybrid B5 (P) and a plug-in hybrid T8. Both combine a four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with different levels of electrical assistance.
The B5 (P) delivers a combined 250PS and provides 360Nm of torque, sufficient for a 7.7-second 0-62mph acceleration time, though it can sound a little coarse when worked hard. As with all other modern Volvos, the top speed is electronically capped at 112mph.
The T8 plug-in hybrid suits the XC90 better but it does come at a price premium. Combining an engine with an enlargeed electric motor and battery and you get a hefty 455PS – despite weighing 2227kg it'll rocket from 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds.
As well as be performance benefit the T8 it also feels a bit more refined, while there's the added advantage of 44.1 mile electric-only range, so you can waft around on electric power alone on those shorter trips provided you can charge the battery regularly.
Volvo XC90 2024: Safety
The Volvo name is synonymous with safety, so you probably won’t be surprised to learn that the XC90 earned the full five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests.
That’s even less surprising when you look at the vast amount of safety kit on board, safety kit that’s standard-fit regardless of which version of the XC90 you pick.
You get all the usual stability and traction aids, speed limit display, a lane-keeping aid, seven airbags and an automatic emergency braking system that’ll slam on the anchors if it detects an impending collision with another car, pedestrian, cyclist or large animal.
Volvo XC90 2024: Towing
A popular tow car, both the Volvo XC90 B5 (P) and T8 versions are good to haul a braked trailer of up to 2400kg. A retractable tow bar is a £1400 option.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| B5 | - | 7.6–7.7 s | 154–176 g/km |
| B5 (D) | - | 7.6 s | 184 g/km |
| B5 (P) | - | 7.7 s | 197–207 g/km |
| B6 | - | 7.6 s | - |
| B6 (P) | - | - | 214–215 g/km |
| D5 | 46–50 mpg | 7.4–7.8 s | 149 g/km |
| T5 | 35–36 mpg | 7.9 s | 184–189 g/km |
| T6 | 34–37 mpg | 6.1–6.5 s | 179–184 g/km |
| T8 | - | 5.3–5.8 s | 49–64 g/km |
| T8 Recharge | - | 5.4–5.8 s | 28–55 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Volvo XC90
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
64%
Real MPG
20–51 mpg
MPGs submitted
310
Volvo XC90 interior
- Boot space is 316–2040 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 1776–4953 mm |
| Width | 2140 mm |
| Height | 1775–1776 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2984 mm |
Volvo XC90 2024: Practicality
No car of this size and type struggles to make life comfortable for lofty folk in the front, but happily, the Volvo XC90 makes life just as comfortable for those in the middle row seats. It's marginally more generous than most of its rivals for head- and legroom, while all three seats can be slid, reclined or folded independently of each other for maximum versatility.
Unlike many rivals, even the seats in the third row, which are standard across the board, have enough space for an average-sized adult, although you might struggle slightly on long trips if you’re six foot or more.
With all seven seats in place, there’s enough boot space for a weekly shop - at 302 litres for the B5 (P) and 262 litres in the T8 – that's about the same as a small hatch. Drop the third row and the boot becomes absolutely massive, meaning pushchairs, golf clubs and suitcases can be carried with ease. Here, the XC90's boot space is 680 litres for the B5 (P), though that drops to 640 litres if you opt for the T8 model.
In two-seat mode, the cargo space on offer puts many vans to shame. What’s more, because all the seats easily fold flush into the floor, the load area you get is perfectly level. B5 (P) versions have a maximum carrying capacity of 1856 litres, with the T8's total continuing to be 40 litres shy.
Volvo XC90 2024: Quality and finish
While one or two surfaces dotted around on the older version of the Volvo XC90 didn't quite hit the mark compared with its Germanic rivals there are no such worries in the facelifted car. It's a wonderfully inviting, high-class environment that doesn't disappoint wherever you hands or eyes focus.
Volvo XC90 2024: Infotainment
The 9.0-inch touchscreen on the older Volvo XC90 was good but the screen transitions could be a little slow. That's changed with the arrival of the new 11.2-inch portrait-orientated touchscreen. There's a noticeable jump-up in quality, with crisp and clear graphics, while it's so much more responsive to use.
The interface is based around Google's Android Automotive operating system (not to be confused with Android Auto) and comes with Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play baked-in.
As you'd expect, navigation is given the most prominence on the display by default, with other sections given over to media and phone contacts. Below that and you'll find controls to heating, ventilation and air-controls - and if you don't like using the touchscreen, there's the XC90's Google Assistant responds well to voice commands.
With Android Automotive installed there's no need for Android Auto but Apple CarPlay users will be able to mirror their iPhone wirelessly.
Volvo XC90s in Ultra trim get a stunning 18-speaker Bowers and Wilkins system that kicks out 1400W, while Plus models get a 600W Harman-Kardon sound system with 13 speakers.
Volvo XC90 value for money
Volvo XC90 2024: Prices
There’s no cheap way into driving a new Volvo XC90, so you’re going to have to brace for an entry ticket of £63,790 for the B5 (P) mild hybrid model in Core trim. The T8 plug-in hybrid in this specification comes in at a much heftier £72,650.
With the same engine choice, the Plus trim increases the prices to £68,790 and £77,650, respectively, while in flagship Ultra guise you'll need £75,290 for the B5 (P) and £84,150 should you fancy the T8.
Looking at the key alteratives, the Audi Q7 starts at £68,370 while the Land Rover Defender 110 weighs in at £60,470. On a different plane are the BMW X7 which costs from £88,890 and the Mercedes GLS which requires £107,500 to get behind the wheel of.
Happily, though, the Volvo should be just as good as its rivals at protecting your investment, because its resale values are just as strong. That means you’ll get a good slice of your outlay back when the time comes to trade in and move on.
Volvo XC90 2024: Running Costs
According to official WLTP figures, the T8 version of the Volvo XC90 will return a maximum of 235.1mpg but remember that what you get in the real world will depend on a whole bunch of factors.
For maximum efficiency, always make sure your battery is topped up with regular charges and spend as much time driving on electric-only power as you can. Volvo claims the latest model is also capable of 44 miles of electric-only driving.
Choose the XC90 B5 (P) and the maximum WLTP Combined cycle figure is 32.8mpg.
Reliability is a little bit unclear on the XC90, and on Volvos in general. One study will place the company among its top performers and then another will place it among the worst. However, everything feels built to last and Volvo’s customer service is rated pretty highly. You also get a 3 year/60,000 mile warranty as standard.
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Within the Volvo XC90 range are three trim levels – Core, Plus and Ultra – with both engine options available with each of them.
To be honest we can’t see much point in looking past the entry-level Volvo XC90 Core model because it’s really well equipped. Aside from the infotainment and safety kit we’ve already talked about, your standard roster includes 20-inch alloy wheels, matrix-design LED headlights, heated front and and outer middle-row seats, quilted Nordico upholstery, a electric tailgate, reversing camera, all-round parking sensors and four-zone climate control.
To this impressive tally, the Volvo XC90 Plus trim adds some niceties such as adaptive air suspension, panoramic sunroof and a 360-degree parking camera. You also get a Harmon-Kardon stereo with 13 speakers instead of the Core's 10 speaker set-up.
Move to the Volvo XC90 Ultra version and there are 18 speakers for the Bowers and Wilkins stereo. It also comes with 21-inch alloy wheels, dark-tinted rear privacy glass, a head-up display and soft Nappa leather upholstery for the seats.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 1776–4953 mm |
| Width | 2140 mm |
| Height | 1775–1776 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2984 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1961–2296 kg |
| Boot Space | 316–2040 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 10000–18000 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £55,795–£72,670 |
| Insurance Groups | 37–44 |
| Road Tax Bands | A–J |
| Official MPG | 34.1–108.6 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
Currently on sale
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Core B5 (P) 250 MHEV Geartronic Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £57,575 | - | 7.7 s |
| Core B6 (P) 300 MHEV Geartronic Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | - |
| Core Recharge T8 455 310+145 Twin Engine 18.8kWh Start/Stop 5dr | £67,795 | - | 5.4 s |
| Plus B5 (D) 235 AWD MHEV Geartronic Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £55,795 | - | 7.6 s |
| Plus B5 (P) 250 MHEV Geartronic Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £66,030 | - | 7.7 s |
| Plus Recharge T8 455 310+145 Twin Engine 18.8kWh Start/Stop 5dr | £72,670 | - | 5.4 s |
| Ultra B6 (P) 300 MHEV Geartronic Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | - |
| Ultra Recharge T8 455 310+145 Twin Engine 18.8kWh Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | - |
On sale until May 2024
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Ultimate B6 (P) 300 MHEV Geartronic Auto Start/Stop 5dr | £76,030 | - | - |
| Ultimate Recharge T8 455 310+145 Twin Engine 18.8kWh Start/Stop 5dr | £77,820 | - | 5.4 s |
On sale until December 2022
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Ultimate B5 (P) 250 MHEV Geartronic Auto Start/Stop 5dr | - | - | 7.7 s |
On sale until April 2022
On sale until May 2020
On sale until March 2020
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 T5 250 Inscription Auto AWD 5dr | - | 35.8 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 T5 250 Inscription Pro Auto AWD 5dr | - | 34.9 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 T5 250hp Momentum Auto AWD 5dr | - | 35.8 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 T5 250hp Momentum Pro Auto AWD 5dr | - | 35.8 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 T5 250hp R-Design Auto AWD 5dr | - | 35.8 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 T5 250hp R-Design Pro Auto AWD 5dr | - | 34.9 mpg | 7.9 s |
On sale until August 2019
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 D5 235 Inscription Powerpulse Auto AWD 5dr | £56,310 | 47.3 mpg | 7.8 s |
| 2.0 D5 235hp Momentum Powerpulse Auto AWD 5dr | £52,410 | 47.3 mpg | 7.8 s |
| 2.0 D5 235hp Momentum Pro Powerpulse Auto AWD 5dr | £55,410 | 47.3 mpg | 7.8 s |
| 2.0 D5 235hp R-Design Powerpulse Auto AWD 5dr | £55,910 | 47.3 mpg | 7.8 s |
| 2.0 D5 235hp R-Design Pro Powerpulse Auto AWD 5dr | £60,160 | 45.6 mpg | 7.8 s |
| 2.0D5 235 Inscription Pro Powerpulse Auto AWD 5dr | £61,210 | 45.6 mpg | 7.8 s |
On sale until June 2018
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 T8 407hp Hybrid Inscription Auto 5dr | £66,055 | - | 5.6 s |
| 2.0 T8 407hp Hybrid Inscription Pro Auto 5dr | £70,405 | - | 5.6 s |
| 2.0 T8 407hp Hybrid Momentum Auto 5dr | £62,505 | - | 5.6 s |
| 2.0 T8 407hp Hybrid Momentum Pro Auto 5dr | £64,805 | - | 5.6 s |
| 2.0 T8 407hp Hybrid R-Design Auto 5dr | £65,155 | - | 5.6 s |
| 2.0 T8 407hp Hybrid R-Design Pro Auto 5dr | £69,405 | - | 5.6 s |
On sale until February 2018
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 T6 320hp Inscription Auto AWD 5dr | £56,505 | 35.3 mpg | 6.5 s |
| 2.0 T6 320hp Inscription Pro Auto AWD 5dr | £60,855 | 34.9 mpg | 6.5 s |
| 2.0 T6 320hp R-Design Auto AWD 5dr | £55,555 | 35.3 mpg | 6.5 s |
| 2.0 T6 320hp R-Design Pro Auto AWD 5dr | £59,805 | 34.9 mpg | 6.5 s |
On sale until April 2016
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 D5 225 Inscription Geartronic AWD 5dr | £50,685 | 48.7 mpg | 7.4 s |
| 2.0 D5 225hp Momentum Geartronic AWD 5dr | £46,250 | 49.6 mpg | 7.4 s |
| 2.0 D5 225hp R-Design Geartronic AWD 5dr | £49,785 | 48.7 mpg | 7.4 s |
| 2.0 T6 320hp Momentum Geartronic AWD 5dr | £49,705 | 36.7 mpg | 6.1 s |
| 2.0 T8 407 Hybrid Inscription Geartronic 5dr | £64,205 | - | 5.3 s |
| 2.0 T8 407 Hybrid Momentum Geartronic 5dr | £60,455 | - | 5.3 s |
| 2.0 T8 407 Hybrid R-Design Geartronic 5dr | £63,355 | - | 5.3 s |
On sale until November 2015
| SUV | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 D5 225 First Edition Geartronic AWD 5dr | £68,785 | 48.7 mpg | 7.8 s |
Model History
- August 2014: Volvo unveiled the all-new XC90
- April 2015: Volvo XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid added
- November 2015: Polestar upgrades available for XC90
- November 2015: XC90 R-Design launched
- February 2016: D5 Powerpulse introduced
- December 2016: Optional 'Red Key' now available
- December 2016: Skype for Business added to spec for XC90
- June 2017
- August 2018: T5 engine added to XC90 range
- February 2019: Refreshed Volvo XC90 announced
- September 2019: Volvo XC90 upgraded with 48v Mild Hybrid
- August 2024: Volvo adds luxury features to XC90 with new Plus Edition and Ultra Edition versions
- September 2024: Volvo gives XC90 an EX90-inspired new look and new tech, orders open today
- October 2024: Revised Volvo XC90 prices start at £63,790
August 2014
Volvo unveiled the all-new XC90
The second generation SUV will reach the UK in May 2015 and be offered in two or four-wheel drive, with the choice of petrol, diesel or hybrid powertrains. The new Volvo XC90 will be available to order in the UK from October and prices will start at £45,000.
The Twin Engine plug-in petrol hybrid T8 will top the XC90 range. The rest of the engine line up will consist of new petrol and diesel engines and the new powertrains will be 2.0-litre, four cylinder, units linked to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The XC90 gets the option of electronically controlled air suspension, with the choice of five modes, including one where the driver is free to tailor the settings to his or her personal taste.
The interior has been redesigned, but will be familiar to many XC90 owners, with wood finishes and a large central colour display. However, Volvo has attempted to make the interior ‘button free’ and the touch screen display will control the majority of the in-car operations. The new XC90 will be offered with a range of Internet-based products and services too, which will include music streaming, apps and online sat nav.
Volvo is describing the interior as one of the most luxurious to have been designed for one of its models, with soft leather, crystal glass gear stick and diamond-cut controls for the start/stop button and volume control. As with the first generation XC90, which was launched back in 2002, the Swedish SUV will be a seven-seater and the third row will have enough for passengers up to 170cm tall (five foot seven inches).
The new Volvo is packed with safety kit, which includes run-off road protection package and automatic braking. In the event of the XC90 leaving the road, the car will detect the impending impact and tighten the seat belts to prevent spine injuries. The seat frames and cushions will also be energy-absorbing, to help further reduce impact to the car’s occupants.
The XC90 is also available with automatic braking, which will apply the brakes if the driver pulls out onto oncoming traffic. The system will also be able to detect cyclists and pedestrians and apply the brakes if it detects a potential impact.
To celebrate the launch of the new XC90, Volvo is releasing a limited First Edition model which will be filled with options and kit. Just 1927 First Edition models will be available - individually numbered to celebrate the year Volvo was founded.
April 2015
Volvo XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid added
Emits 49g/km with a combined 407PS, 640Nm, 134.5mpg and up to 26 miles pure electric range. (320PS + 87PS power and 400 + 240Nm torque - combined 407hp and 640 Nm.)
Improvement over the earlier expected figures were achieved thanks to the continuous innovation cycle at the Swedish company. The result of further tuning is a drop of 10 g/km from the initial prognosis, for up to 134.5mpg fuel economy, while also adding horsepower. This makes the XC90 T8 Twin Engine the clear leader in its segment, with an exceptional combination of low fuel consumption, emissions and pure power.
No other 7-seat SUV can deliver 26 miles of pure electric range, 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds and provide combined power of 407PS – all in a 7 seat configuration.
The XC90 T8 Twin Engine is available to order in the UK from 30th April 2015. First deliveries December 2015.
The XC90 T8 Twin Engine can go from 0 to 62mph in 5.6 seconds, delivering all the driving pleasure customers have come to expect from a Volvo SUV. But driving pleasure is only a fraction of what the XC90 T8 offers: the car has five different driving modes that deliver a range of performance and efficiency-enhancing characteristics. Using either a scroll wheel on the centre console or a touchscreen on the dashboard, drivers can choose from:
November 2015
Polestar upgrades available for XC90
Known as Polestar Performance Optimisation, the upgrades improve the power and torque figures of both the D5 diesel and T6 petrol Drive-E engines, particularly at medium revs where it’s most effective. They also make the accelerator responses even quicker, and alter the settings of the automatic gearbox to provide faster gearchanges and prevent gearshifts during rapid cornering, which could unsettle the car. These quicker and more precise responses to driver commands not only make the driving experience more dynamic, they ensure the car responds predictably during high-speed driving.
The maximum output of the D5 Drive-E engine is increased to 233PS and 500Nm of torque (up from 225PS and 470Nm), while the T6 Drive-E is boosted to 334PS and 440Nm (from 320PS and 400Nm).
The price of the Polestar upgrade is £835, including VAT and fitting. The work can be carried out at any authorised Volvo dealer, and should take about 30 minutes to complete.
November 2015
XC90 R-Design launched
It gets 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, silver-effect door mirrors, gloss black mesh front grille and tinted rear windows. Inside, there are leather/nubuck sports seats, a 12.3-inch active TFT driver’s information display and a perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel complete with gearshift paddles. R-Design XC90s also get a powered front passenger seat with memory function (to match the driver’s seat), sports pedals, black headlining and upgraded interior lighting.
R-Design models come with Drive Mode Settings and Adjustable Steering Force as standard, too, which allow you to choose between different settings for the engine, transmission, steering and the optional air suspension.
R-Design versions are available with the D5 diesel and T6 petrol Drive-E engines, and in T8 Twin Engine petrol-electric hybrid form. Prices start at £49,785 OTR.
February 2016
D5 Powerpulse introduced
PowerPulse technology delivers significant improvements in take-off performance thanks to Volvo’s ingenious use of compressed air to deliver an instantaneous response by spooling up the turbo. Volvo also announced the introduction of its latest semi-autonomous drive technology, Pilot Assist II, as standard on the XC90 in the UK.
December 2016
Optional 'Red Key' now available
Priced at £110 and available both for new and for existing cars. When the car is driven with the Red Key, its top speed is reduced to 75mph, the Adaptive Cruise Control function is programmed to maintain the maximum distance to the car in front, and the maximum volume from the audio system is reduced. Meanwhile, use of the Red Key sees the permanent activation of a range of safety features, including BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), Lane Keeping Aid, Forward Collision Warning, Driver Alert Control, Distance Alert and Traffic Sign Recognition.
December 2016
Skype for Business added to spec for XC90
Described as "collaborative productivity app" enabling easy access conference calls from the car. Can view upcoming meetings and participant details, and join meetings with one click via the large centre display.
June 2017
Volvo XC90 T8 won 'Best Hybrid' award at Tow Car Awards 2017. The XC90 T8 has a maximum braked towing weight of 2,400 kg, which is more than any other hybrid car.
August 2018
T5 engine added to XC90 range
Tuned to deliver 250PS and 350Nm of torque, the T5 has well-established credentials as a strong yet refined performer that delivers impressive fuel economy and emissions. It is matched as standard to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Customers for the XC90 SUV can specify the T5 with all-wheel drive in all model grades, starting with the Momentum, which has an on-the-road price of £50,43, and topping out with the Inscription Pro at £59,235. The XC90 T5 AWD achieves official combined cycle figures from 35.8mpg and 184g/km, while acceleration from rest to 62mph is 7.9 seconds.
February 2019
Refreshed Volvo XC90 announced
A newly developed fuel-saving engine option is added. This offers customers Volvo’s advanced kinetic energy-recovery braking system, which is coupled with its existing internal combustion engines to create a new integrated electrified powertrain, under its new ‘B’ badge. The system offers drivers up to 15 per cent fuel savings and emission reductions in real-world driving. The new 'brake-by-wire' system interacts with the energy-recovery system and reduces fuel consumption and emissions by recovering kinetic energy under braking.
The new ‘B’-badged cars complement Volvo’s existing T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid electrified option on the new XC90.
Outside, the refreshed XC90 offers subtle upgrades to the original exterior, such as new wheels, exterior colours and a modern new grille, among other details.
Improving safety, the XC90 now offers drivers help with steering on both the City Safety and the Blind Spot Information System. City Safety with Autobrake is still the only system on the market to recognise pedestrians, cyclists and large animals. The Oncoming Lane Mitigation system first introduced on the XC60 is now also available on the XC90, while the Cross Traffic Alert technology now also offers autobrake.
As well as Apple Carplay the XC90 infotainment system is now also compatible with Android Auto. The Sensus infotainment system has gone through multiple updates in recent years, all of which have been adopted into the XC90. Where available, the Spotify music streaming service is integrated in the XC90.
September 2019
Volvo XC90 upgraded with 48v Mild Hybrid
The 2020 model year XC90 range is the first to offer Volvo's new mild-hybrid system, in this case a diesel designated 'B5'. It combines Volvo's established 2.0-litre 235hp diesel engine with a 48-volt battery, a KERS kinetic energy recovery system and an integrated starter generator. This improves fuel economy by up to 15 per cent in real-world driving and produces lower NOx emissions than the outgoing D5 XC90.
The B5 also gets an updated automatic transmission, which brings improved fuel efficiency and superior gearshift quality. Acceleration from a standstill is sharper, too, thanks to a greater torque capacity in the lower gears. The B5 also breaks new ground for Volvo by using a brake-by-wire system.
The XC90's T8 'Twin Engine' petrol-electric plug-in hybrid powertrain has also been revised, with an increase in the high-voltage battery's capacity from 10.4 to 11.8 kilowatt hours. This increases the car's electric-only driving range from up to 21.7 to a maximum of 28.6 miles – more than enough for an urban commuting journey.
Minor styling tweaks include a new grille and lower front bumper designs. The air intakes also have a fresh look and new alloy wheel designs have been introduced. All XC90 versions also now come with integrated roof rails and dual integrated exhaust tailpipes as standard.
August 2024
Volvo adds luxury features to XC90 with new Plus Edition and Ultra Edition versions
The seven-seat Volvo XC90 large SUV range is benefiting from specification upgrades that enhance the model’s style and luxury profile. The XC90 Plus Edition and Ultra Edition trim levels replace the current Plus and Ultra grades respectively.
The Plus Edition introduces perforated Nappa leather upholstery with ventilation for the front seats, tinted windows and 21-inch alloy wheels, replacing the outgoing model's 20-inch rims.
The Ultra Edition adopts 22-inch wheels, previously 21-inch, while the prices for both grades include all exterior paint choices.
Both new specifications are available with the B5 petrol and T8 petrol-electric plug-in hybrid powertrains, and prices start from £69,425.
Orders are open now, with first deliveries this autumn.
September 2024
Volvo gives XC90 an EX90-inspired new look and new tech, orders open today
Volvo has announced a major facelift for the XC90, which originally launched back in 2015. The firm's flagship seven-seater SUV is available as a T8 plug-in hybrid that can travel 45.4 miles on electric power alone, while B5 and B6 mild hybrid models may also be offered.
The XC90 gets an exterior refresh, with new lights and a front grille design that brings it closer in looks to the electric EX90.
On the inside, the refreshed cabin includes recycled materials and a larger central touchscreen that uses the same layout as the firm's latest electric models, further closing the gap between Volvo's EVs and combustion-powered cars.
Volvo has also worked to improve the XC90's ride comfort, including adaptive damping and optional air suspension the car, road and driver 500 times per second, adjusting the damping to give the most comfortable ride possible. There's more insulation, too.
The new Volvo XC90 is available to order in the UK from October. Production is scheduled to begin in late 2024, with first customer deliveries set to start around the end of the year.
October 2024
Revised Volvo XC90 prices start at £63,790
Specifications and prices for the once-more revised Volvo XC90 have been confirmed. The overhauled model will be available in three trim levels - Core, Plus and Ultra - and prices start at £63,790.
All models benefit from revised looks, new exterior colour choices and a higher-resolution 11.2-inch touchscreen. XC90 Core models include climate control, heated seats and 20-inch alloys, while Plus models get adaptive suspension and a 13-speaker stereo. Top-spec Ultra models get larger wheels, massage seats and an 18-speaker Bowers and Wilkins audio system.
Volvo XC90 pricing
T8 Plug-in Hybrid AWD Core £72,650
B5 AWD Plus £68,790
T8 Plug-in Hybrid AWD Plus £77,650
B5 AWD Ultra £75,290
T8 Plug-in Hybrid AWD Ultra £84,150
What to watch out for
Complaint of multiple software problems on Volvo XC90 "Like most other owners, I'm having lots of ongoing software problems with my car. Many of the functions for which I bought this car don't work at all, or work for a while after a software update and then fail again. Ongoing software issues are "resolved" by a latest software update which in most cases fixes the glitch temporarily but often has knock on effects to other software functions.
28-03-2017:Report of numerous annoying problems with leased Volvo XC90 T8. Within 24 hours of pick up it needed its main ECU replacing (gone for a week and half) and since then the heated seat on the drivers side doesn't work (2 visits, still no fix) and the nav / radio unit liked to reboot itself (2 visits, now fixed, fingers crossed). Since the last visit the driver's window started running slowly and the collision warning sensor likes to go off a lot more frequently than before.
04-10-2017:Significant electrical/electronic problems reported with November 2016 Volvo XC90. Recurrent issues with low charge 12V battery which resulted in complete electrical failure within the first 4 months from purchase. Volvo UK had the car uplifted back to the Volvo dealer in April 2017 with the subsequent battery change and software upgrade seeming to have sorted the original problem.
03-09-2018:Complaint from owner that even when fully charged his Volvo XC90 T8 will not run for more than a few miles in EV mode without the petrol engine cutting in. A new 12v battery was tried in case there was a fault with the engine start/stop, but that made no difference.
12-11-2018:Report of numerous problems with 2015 Volvo XC90 T8. In three years it has had two complete software failures leading to no power.
25-05-2019:Report of brakes of Volvo XC90 failing on the motorway 200 miles after purchase. "No braking power between 60mph and 40mph no matter how hard I pressed the pedal." Volvo examined the car and found a part was not put in place during assembly.
15-08-2019:Report of initial 20 miles fully charged EV range of Volvo T8 PHEV 'TwinPower' disappearing when first starting the car. Engine simply starts. Car has done 127k miles.
12-02-2020:Report of Key Tag (Sport Key) of 22k mile 2018 Volvo XC90 T8 failing, owner thinks because of a flat battery. But it is a sealed unit so the battery cannot be changed and not covered by warranty so owner must pay £220 for a coded replacement.
