Volvo XC90 review – understated upmarket large SUV

Verdict – is the Volvo XC90 a good car?

While the Volvo XC90 isn’t by any means a driver’s car, it’s tough to beat in terms of comfort and refinement. The XC90 will appeal to buyers after a safe, practical and luxurious SUV that’s a little more restrained in its approach. There are more economical – and fully electric – rivals out there, though, and the Volvo XC90 is an expensive option to buy outright, although the plug-in hybrid version will appeal more to company-car buyers thanks to its lower emissions and company car tax. 

Volvo XC90 models, specs and alternatives

While Volvo now offers a range of SUVs in various sizes, the Volvo XC90 was the brand’s first SUV when it launched, and now sits at the top of the lineup as its largest model. The XC90 is now in its second generation and is a practical, safe, comfortable and upmarket large SUV. It's due to get a facelift soon, but we haven't got behind the wheel of the tweaked version yet.

The latest XC90 exudes much more luxury appeal than the original car and has an expensive price tag to match – it starts from just under £64,000 which puts it up against high-profile premium rivals such as the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and Land Rover Discovery. While these flashy competitors feature hi-tech gadgetry and outlandish designs, the Volvo XC90 takes a more minimalist approach with attractive, but conservative styling and all the tech you need without going over the top.

One stand-out feature of the XC90’s styling is Volvo’s ‘Thor’s Hammer’ LED lights, but apart from that the Volvo XC90 is fairly undramatic. This will form part of the appeal for some owners, who prefer its discreet presence. If you want a large, luxury seven-seater SUV but don’t want to look like a showoff, then the XC90 is a perfect choice.

While there’s no direct electric version of the Volvo XC90, which is offered in just mild-hybrid petrol and plug-in hybrid versions, the brand has since released an all-electric Volvo EX90 electric SUV which is based on different underpinnings and gets a clean-sheet design.

Volvo knows its customers appreciate the little things, so it’s included some neat touches including small Swedish flags stitched into the seats, plus a small inscription on the seatbelts that reads 'Since 1959' - a reminder of the year Volvo became the first manufacturer to introduce the three-point safety belt as standard.

The 10 best large SUVs on sale in 2024

Tech is a strong point despite the minimalist-looking dash. The focal point is the portrait-oriented touchscreen display, which houses all the key features. You control it like you would a smartphone, by swiping, pinching and tapping thanks to its advanced Google-based software.

There’s lots of room inside and even the sixth and seventh seats are roomy enough for adults, with slightly more knee room than the Kia EV9. The comfortable ride means that, even on bumpy roads, the whole family will stay settled and it’s a very smooth car on the motorway.

Considering its bulk, the XC90's 2.0-litre mild-hybrid B5 petrol engine might seem a little on the small size, but it proves capable of endowing the big SUV with respectable performance, as well as impressive fuel economy. The T8 petrol plug-in hybrid makes particular sense for company car users and those who live in crowded, urban areas. All models use an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

While the grippy XC90 is happy to carve through corners, the high degree of body lean and light steering don't encourage the spirited driving that a Porsche Cayenne or BMW X5 allows. The XC90 is far better suited to quiet, relaxed cruising.

The XC90 is very well equipped as standard, thanks to features like its intuitive infotainment system, LED headlights, leather seats, a powered tailgate and 19-inch alloy wheels. You can choose from Core, Plus and Ultra trim levels, the two offering enhanced sportiness and luxury respectively. 

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Volvo is regarded as something of a pioneer when it comes to safety and the XC90 is its flagship model, so there’s a long list of technology to keep you safe. This resulted in a five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating, with an impressive 97% score for adult occupant protection. The XC90 is designed to keep other road users safe, too, with pedestrian and cyclist detection to help avoid collisions.

Read our used review of the Mk2 Volvo XC90...

How about a used or nearly new Volvo XC90 Mk2?

With a supremely stylish, well-appointed cabin and distinctive exterior design, the Volvo XC90 Mk2 is a popular choice in the used premium SUV market. Another large part of its appeal is that it will genuinely seat seven adults, and still have space for luggage. It’s comfortable to ride in and pleasant to drive, and its engine range includes petrol and diesels, as well as mild hybrids and a plug-in hybrid. 

What’s its history?

The Volvo XC90 Mk2 had its UK launch at the end of 2014, with sales taking off in earnest in 2015. It looked fabulous inside and out, and its standard seven-seater configuration made it an instant hit on the school run. Also standard were four-wheel drive and an automatic gearbox. From the outset it offered a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid model alongside the regular petrol and diesel versions; the latter were superseded during 2019 by mild hybrid petrol and diesel derivatives. The XC90 Mk2 also underwent a facelift that year, when its equipment levels were enhanced and extra safety technology added. There was another revamp in late 2021 that boosted the power and EV range of the T8 Recharge and introduced new trim grades.

Read our buying guide of the Mk1 Volvo XC90...

Used XC90 Mk1 (2002-2014)

Volvo’s first attempt to break into the large premium SUV market was well-received, especially as at the time few others offered the versatility of seven seats. It’s a good-looking car with a first-rate interior, and its engine range extends from the predictable turbodiesels all the way up to a 4.4-litre V8 petrol. The XC90 Mk1 enjoyed a long lifespan and its looks and specification evolved over the years.