Volvo XC90: An Expert Review
In the luxury SUV market, one name stands apart. The Volvo XC90 isn’t about flashy ads or bold features. It’s known for its quiet confidence, timeless style, and strong focus on safety.
Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz have ruled this segment for a long time. Still, the XC90 stands out with its own unique identity. It’s more than an SUV; it’s a way of life. It’s built on Scandinavian values— minimalism, sustainability, and prioritizing people.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know about the 2025 Volvo XC90—from specifications, variants, and features to on-road experience, safety tech, fuel efficiency, pricing, and why it continues to be one of the smartest luxury SUV choices globally.
Design Philosophy: Understated Luxury with Swedish Soul
Where other SUVs seek to dazzle, the XC90 speaks in calm authority. Volvo’s design language is refreshingly distinct—think clean surfaces, crisp character lines, and Thor’s Hammer LED DRLs that serve as both a signature and a salute to Norse mythology.
Exterior Dimensions (India/Global Version):
- Length: 4,953 mm
- Width: 2,008 mm
- Height: 1,776 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,984 mm
- Ground Clearance: 238 mm (unladen)
From the 18–21-inch alloys to the slim LED taillights and dual exhausts, every element feels purposeful. There’s no visual clutter—just a design that will look good for decades.
Interior: The Art of Scandinavian Serenity
Step inside the XC90, and you’ll feel the difference almost instantly. This is not just a cabin—it’s a sanctuary.
Interior Highlights:
- Materials: Nappa leather, open-pore wood, aluminum trim, Orrefors crystal gear shifter
- Infotainment: 9-inch vertical touchscreen (Google Built-in)
- Instrument Cluster: 12.3-inch digital display
- Sound System: Optional 1,400W Bowers & Wilkins with 19 speakers
- Seating: 7 adults (configurable layout)
- Boot Space: 302L (all seats up), 640L (third row down), 1856L (fully flat)
You can feel the Scandinavian vibe in this space. Natural light pours in from the panoramic sunroof. The controls are simple and easy to operate. Every detail, from the stitching to the wood grain, shows great craftsmanship.
Performance: Engine Options & Driving Dynamics
1. Mild-Hybrid Petrol (B6 AWD)
- Engine: 2.0L turbocharged + supercharged inline-4
- Power: 300 hp
- Torque: 420 Nm
- Transmission: 8-speed Geartronic
- 0-100 km/h: 6.7 seconds
- Top Speed: 180 km/h (electronically limited)
This variant balances performance and economy, making it a great pick for everyday luxury driving.
2. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (XC90 Recharge T8)
- Engine: 2.0L turbo + electric motor
- Combined Output: 455 hp
- Torque: 709 Nm
- Battery: 18.8 kWh Lithium-ion
- Electric-only Range: ~77 km (WLTP)
- 0-100 km/h: 5.4 seconds
With regenerative braking and multiple driving modes (Hybrid, Pure EV, Power, AWD), the Recharge variant is a powerhouse that also offers zero-emission driving for city commutes.
Technology: Intuitive, Not Intrusive
Volvo’s approach to tech is refreshingly human-centric. You won’t find bloated interfaces or cluttered dashboards here—just clean, fast, and smart systems.
Key Tech Features:
- Google Built-In: Maps, Assistant, Play Store
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Over-the-air updates
- 360° camera with front/rear parking assist
- 4-zone climate control
- Air suspension (optional in some variants)
- Wireless charging pad
Despite its minimalist look, the XC90 is a tech marvel underneath.
Safety: The Unrivaled Legacy Continues
This is Volvo’s strongest suit. The XC90 has consistently scored 5 stars in global NCAP safety ratings and remains one of the safest vehicles ever made.
Top Safety Features:
- Pilot Assist (semi-autonomous driving)
- City Safety (autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist, and animal detection)
- Run-off Road Protection
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)
- Rear Collision Mitigation
- Lane Keeping Aid
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Whiplash Protection System
These aren’t just optional add-ons—many of them come standard, underlining Volvo’s safety-first commitment.
Driving Impressions: What’s It Like Behind the Wheel?
Driving the XC90 feels effortless. The steering is precise, and it handles city traffic well for its size. While it isn’t as sporty as a Porsche Cayenne, its smooth ride and quiet interior make it perfect for long trips.
The air suspension adjusts as needed. It keeps the ride smooth, even on bumpy roads. The noise insulation is excellent. Even at 100 km/h, the cabin stays quiet.
Fuel Efficiency & Range (Real-World Tested)
Fuel economy depends on driving mode and variant:
XC90 B6 Petrol (Mild-Hybrid):
- City: ~9–10 km/l
- Highway: ~12–13 km/l
- Combined: ~11 km/l
XC90 T8 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid:
- Electric-Only Range: ~70–77 km
- Combined Range: 800–900 km (with full battery and tank)
- Fuel Economy: Equivalent of 40+ km/l in hybrid mode
If you charge the T8 daily and keep trips within 60–70 km, you might rarely use the petrol engine—massively reducing fuel costs.
Price (India & Global Comparison)
India – Ex-showroom Prices (April 2025):
- XC90 B6 Ultimate Bright: ₹98.50 lakh
- XC90 Recharge T8 AWD: ₹1.20 crore (approx.)
USA – MSRP:
- Core B5 AWD: $56,000
- Plus B6 AWD: $62,000
- Ultimate T8 Recharge: $79,000+
While pricier than some rivals, Volvo justifies the tag with more standard features, superior safety, and environmental consciousness.
Comparison: XC90 vs Rivals
| Feature | Volvo XC90 | BMW X5 | Audi Q7 | Mercedes GLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Price (India) | ₹98.50 lakh | ₹96 lakh | ₹94.5 lakh | ₹96.5 lakh |
| Engine Output | 300–455 hp | 265–530 hp | 340–500 hp | 270–435 hp |
| Plug-in Hybrid Option | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Third-Row Seating | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Safety Features (standard) | Extensive | Good | Very Good | Good |
| Interior Quality | Premium + Minimal | Sporty + Lux | Modern + Techy | Plush + Classic |
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Segment-leading safety features
- Electric-only driving in T8 variant
- Exceptionally crafted interior
- Silent and comfortable ride quality
- High resale value and brand trust
Cons:
- No diesel option
- Infotainment may feel minimal to tech-savvy buyers
- Third row ideal only for short trips/adults under 5’8”
- Slightly underwhelming performance for enthusiasts
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Volvo XC90?
If you’re someone who values safety, sustainability, comfort, and unpretentious luxury, the Volvo XC90 makes a compelling case.
It’s not about showing off—it’s about showing up in a car that prioritizes your well-being, your family’s safety, and the planet’s future. It blends tech, tranquility, and trust in a way few others can match.
In short, the XC90 isn’t trying to be the loudest SUV in the room—it’s just quietly the smartest.