The 2023 Volvo XC90 is a fantastic three-row outstanding SUV with a ton of class, offering space for seven people and plenty of power in either a gas or plug-in hybrid version. The XC90 excels in a crowded market, and its top Ultimate trim includes a gorgeous hand-crafted Orrefors crystal gear shifter that feels comfortable in your palm. The third-row seats fold down to provide a ton of storage room, or they can pop back up to let you take turns driving the after-school sports carpool.
The XC90 is now in its second generation, which began in 2016. It comes in three variations (Core, Plus, and Ultimate), with three engine choices. Volvo updated its trim levels for the current model year, simplifying the names and option sets. The engines have also been modified; However, the standard 2.0-litre engine’s total horsepower in the gas-only engines was somewhat reduced, and the turbocharged inline-four plug-in hybrid’s all-electric range increased from 18 miles to a substantial 32 miles. We anticipate an update for this generation shortly, even though the present version does not need much work.
The elegant BMW X5, the iconic mid-century Genesis GV80, and the dependable Lexus RX are the XC90’s rivals in the midsize luxury SUV market. The Acura MDX is another similar three-row vehicle with a lower starting price.
All three of the XC90’s engine options—the mild hybrid four-cylinder B5, the super- and turbocharged B6, and the plug-in T8—can move this three-row SUV effectively and with enjoyment. The Recharge T8, combined with 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, is undoubtedly the best. Additionally, the Recharge T8 offers a 32-mile all-electric range for doing local errands. The XC90 can tow up to 5,000 pounds with the B6 powerplant and Recharge, sufficient to pull a small boat or camper, but only 4,000 pounds with the standard B5 engine option.
The Volvo XC90 is head and shoulders above the competition regarding luxury and comfort. This SUV stands out from its competitors because of unique features like the crystal gear shifter and the elegant dash with an integrated touchscreen, and the quality and finish are on pace with a more upscale brand. Depending on whether you choose captain’s chairs, the XC90 can be set up as either a seven- or six-seater, and at 195 inches long, it’s still simple to park in most spaces.
The XC90 has many standard driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane-keeping aid, and a strengthened steel body with solid points where you need them, as one would expect from a Volvo vehicle. Even in the basic model, the XC90, which starts at $57,095, is loaded with features. The outstanding Recharge T8 begins at $72,995, while the Plus offers the best value at $60,995.
What’s New?
Engine choices have been enhanced with the addition of the B5, B6, and Recharge T8 plug-in hybrid engines.
Redesigned trim levels;
Core, Plus, and Ultimate Pricing now increased for 2023: The PHEV has a peak price of $80,495, while the standard B5 Core begins at $57,095.
Performance: Volvo XC90
The 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic gearbox power, and all-wheel drive are features of the XC90’s basic B5, a mild hybrid. With the B6 option, the B5, which has 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, can produce up to 295 horses and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Recharge T8, the highest model, combines the engine and electric motor for a combined output of 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque that will tear over the pavement. On a full charge, the PHEV has a 32-mile all-electric range.
The XC90 has four predetermined driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Off-Road, and Dynamic. There is also an Individual option that may be customized. The tachometer doesn’t show while in the default comfort setting, which is on by default. In both Comfort and Eco modes, the start/stop function is automatically engaged, and in Eco, the SUV is significantly lowered to lessen wind resistance. By contrast, using the Off-Road mode raises the ground clearance. The most enjoyable driving mode is dynamic because it has a faster steering response, gear changes, and turns offer start/ so that the XC90 can accelerate rapidly.
The XC90 has less power at the base than the Acura MDX, Lexus RX 350L (290 hp), and BMW X5 (335 hp) in the midsize luxury SUV class. That changes significantly, however, if you choose the XC90 Recharge T8: The top-line engine in the Volvo had 100 more horsepower than the MDX at that time, and it has even more power than the RX. If horsepower is your primary statistic, the BMW X5 has a maximum output of 523.
Fuel efficiency: Volvo XC90
The EPA predicts that the 2023 XC90 will achieve combined fuel efficiency ratings of 25 mpg with the B5 engine, 22 mpg with the B6 engine, and 66 MPGe with the Recharge T8 hybrid. Additionally, the Recharge T8 has an all-electric range in Pure mode of up to 32 miles, an increase from 18 miles from the previous year.
The Volvo performs well compared to the MDX, BMW X5 sDrive40i, and RX, which get combined fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg, 23 mpg, and 24 mpg for their AWD variants, respectively. The most competitive model is the hybrid Lexus RX, which achieves a combined 36 mpg.
Tech for safety and driver assistance: 14/15
Lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, rear automatic braking, automatic high beams, a traffic sign reader, front and rear parking sensors, and a driver attention alert are just a few of the many driver assistance features that Volvo includes with the XC90. A surround-view camera is included when upgrading to Plus, and a head-up display is included in the Ultimate trim. The 2023 Volvo XC90 received five stars (out of five) from the National Highway Safety Transportation Board and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) top rating, Top Safety Pick+.
Comfort and Space
Volvo makes considerable effort to choose materials that scream comfort and elegance. All seats are nicely cushioned and appropriate for short and long excursions, and the synthetic leather in the Core versions is of a high grade with dark or light material. The brushed wool mix upholstery, an add-on choice for the Ultimate trim, pleased us. It is cosy and silky, dissipating heat on hot days and rapidly warming up with a heater. The only drawback to the wool fabric is how hard it is to get cocoa powder out of it (ask us how we know).
The XC90 is 2.5 inches shorter than the RX, 3 inches shorter than the MDX, and slightly longer than the X5 at 195 inches. The X5 is 3 inches wider, providing BMW’s optional third-row cabin with additional shoulder space.
Legroom in the front two rows of the XC90 is equivalent to its competitors, at 37 inches. However, those in the third row could have a chance to gripe since 31.9 inches isn’t that much. However, the third row of the Volvo will be more spacious than the cramped ones in the BMW or Acura. When it comes to third-row legroom, Lexus triumphs.
Infotainment: Volvo XC90
All 2023 Volvo XC90 models have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connection, which link to a 9-inch touchscreen that is vertically oriented. Although there might be an information overload on the screen, the new Google-based system is quick and sturdy and has already been installed in other Volvo and Polestar EVs. Using the touchscreen and much too many steps are required to adjust the seat and steering wheel heaters.
On the other hand, we particularly like that the touchscreen provides data on the quality of the air within the vehicle and the amount of pollen outside. The filter was also beneficial when oak trees in Austin, Texas, released pollen at that time of year, alerting us to the high pollen count. Excellent audio controls make it simple to choose preferred satellite stations and switch between them using the buttons on the steering wheel. Two USB-C connectors are in the first two rows at the front and centre.
Storage & Cargo Space:
Volvo did a great job designing the XC90’s adaptable storage space. 85.7 cubic feet, 41.8 cubic feet, and 15.8 cubic feet are available behind the first, second, and third, respectively. That is superior to its competitors in this market; the Volvo efficiently uses its overall volume, outpacing the BMW SUV by almost ten cubic feet and the Lexus SUV by twice that amount.
The standard electric liftgate makes access to the third-row seats and storage area simple and fast. The XC90 does include modest storage places in the third row that youngsters will like for their trinkets, but we’d rather see roomier door pocket compartments and a more robust console.
Design: Volvo XC90
The traditional boxy design of Volvo vehicles has evolved in recent years, and the XC90 is no exception. With a recognizable, upscale style and the Volvo emblem prominently positioned in the middle, the grille guides the XC90’s nose. The XC90’s T-shaped headlights and lengthy, difficult-to-miss taillights, which give it its distinctive light signature and spacious dimensions for interior comfort, are features we like.
Two of the Swedish house’s specialities are fit and finish. The inside parts are in good alignment, and the doors shut firmly. Volvo offers a high-quality experience and is aware of its target market. Therefore, there is little area for criticism.
Is the Volvo XC90 from 2023 worth it?
In whatever version, the XC90 is a stylish, entertaining SUV that will appeal to most families. The starting price of the XC90 in the luxury segment is $57,095, which is more than the MDX and RX 350 rivals but several thousand dollars less than the X5. Volvo vehicles are well-equipped, with a complete complement of safety features and conveniences like heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and 19-inch wheels.
Upgrade to the Plus level for wider wheels, heated rear seats, leather upholstery, and a convenient built-in second-row booster seat. The premium leather, plusher seats, upgraded audio system, and unique crystal shift knob found only on the Ultimate trim (beginning at $70,295) are all features.
Our choice for the most outstanding value among the three trims is the Plus with the B6 engine (with prices beginning at $64,495). The XC90 is attractively outfitted with many of the amenities a buyer of a premium vehicle would expect and has excellent acceleration and handling, thanks to those options. The standard Recharge ($72,995) gives a more excellent electric-only range for future cost savings.
How Much Will Insurance for a 2023 Volvo XC90 Cost?
The XC90 should have comparable insurance costs to most of its competitors. Though this averages all 50 states, a typical 30-year-old female driver with a clean record may anticipate a yearly premium of roughly $2,550 for the Recharge and $2,200 for the basic. A BMW X5 owner may spend $2,740 annually, compared to $2,100 for the Acura MDX and $2,280 for the Lexus RX (and $2,490 for the hybrid).
Volvo XC90 Generations
Second Generation
2016 to Present
The all-new 2015 XC90 was the first car to use Volvo’s SPA platform, boasting a weight reduction but enhanced safety and economy. It was larger, longer, and lower than its predecessor. Since then, many standard safety features and driver-assistance systems have been introduced, including but not limited to automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic warning, object recognition, and lane-keep assist. This is typical Volvo behaviour. The Recharge plug-in hybrid’s battery-only range was raised to 32 miles for 2023. In 2023, Trims adopted the names Core, Plus, and Ultimate.
First Generation
2003 to 2015
The carmaker was well-known before it was unveiled for its boxy-shaped passenger vehicles and safety advancements. The XC90 was introduced as a 2003 model and came in two trim levels: 2.5T and T6. The former has a 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharger and a five-speed automated transmission. The latter had a four-speed automatic and a 2.9-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine. In 2005, a V8 engine was added to the range. Before its second-generation makeover, the XC90 had a mid-cycle refresh in 2007 and several cosmetic-only improvements.
Verdict
The 2023 Volvo XC90 is a stylish vehicle with a luxurious interior and futuristic exterior. The Swedish automaker has made a strong case for itself as a safety innovator, and Volvo’s once-boxy design characteristics have been softened for its SUV series. As it pulls off, the taillights leave a recognizable impression. The third-row seats are cramped, although a tiny adult or big kid may fit there comfortably. For more power, leather, and a surround-view camera, choose the B6 Plus trim. This SUV is fantastic.
