2025 Volvo XC90

The 2025 Volvo XC90’s updates play to its strengths — it was already a refined and good-looking (in our eyes) luxury SUV. Now it’s even more so, with a dash of upgraded technology. The XC90 seats six or seven in its upscale cabin, with comfortable seats, especially in the first two rows. High-end audio, premium materials, and cool Scandinavian design enhance the XC90’s appeal even further.

On top of that, the XC90 gets excellent safety ratings, making it a great choice for family transport.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and evaluating the current group of midsize luxury SUVs, including the Volvo XC90.

The 2025 Volvo XC90’s updates don’t amount to an all-new vehicle, as the same core architecture and powertrains are in this new model. However, the new XC90’s exterior has been updated, the interior has been redesigned to echo the new EX30 and EX90 electric SUVs, and the digital user experience has been upgraded to match those new EVs as well. The central touchscreen is now larger (11.2 inches) and higher-resolution (21% greater pixel density), and there are new interior trim choices.

The 2025 Volvo XC90 competes with vehicles like the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, BMW X5, Cadillac XT6, Genesis GV80, Lexus TX, and Lincoln Aviator. About half of those competitors start a few thousand dollars below the XC90 (MDX, XT6, Lexus TX), and the rest are about the same price or a few thousand more. That puts the XC90 right near the middle of a highly competitive field.

The XC90’s resale value is a bit below average for the segment, however. Be sure to check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase price to see what you should be paying. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

We haven’t yet driven this latest iteration of the XC90, but we expect it to drive much like the previous model thanks to the shared core architecture and powertrains.

The XC90 B5 makes 247 horsepower from a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, and in driving the previous model, we’ve found there’s plenty of pep for freeway merges and all the usual day-to-day stuff, but it lacks the punch some might prefer in a luxury SUV. The midlevel B6 ups the power to a more interesting level, with 295 hp, thanks to the addition of more forced induction. At the top of the lineup is the XC90 T8, making 455 hp and hitting 60 mph in a brisk five seconds.

Regardless of variant, we expect the XC90 will continue to favor comfort over outright performance. We think that’s exactly the way it should be with a family SUV.

Relative to the competition, the XC90 offers a good mix of power and value. Fans of high-value, fun-driving family vehicles should also consider the 290-hp Acura MDX or the 300-hp Genesis GV80.

Fuel Economy

All three 2025 Volvo XC90 powertrains have all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard. The entry point is the B5, with a turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine and a mild hybrid system for 26 mpg in combined city/highway driving. The midgrade XC90 B6 adds a supercharger to the B5’s setup for more power and 23 mpg combined. Finally, the T8 pairs the turbocharged 4-cylinder with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system to achieve 33 miles of all-electric range and the equivalent of 58 mpg combined.

All in all, the XC90 gets good gas mileage for its class. Comparing base models, the XC90’s 26 mpg beats the GV80 and the MDX (both 21 mpg combined), and even the BMW X5 xDrive40i (25 mpg combined). Most of the remaining rivals sit between these bookends.

The larger central touchscreen and redesigned dashboard layout help bring the XC90 in line with the new EX30 and EX90 electric SUVs, and the updated software brings a host of fresh features and apps. This tech can also be expanded further after purchase thanks to over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Other new interior features include additional storage space in the center console, an additional cup holder, and a relocated wireless charging pad. Updated lighting, air vents, and decorative panels add to the revamped look.

Front-row comfort is great, with plenty of legroom and headroom for most. The second row is roomy but not expansive, with 37 inches of legroom in both the 6-seat and 7-seat configurations. All models have 31.9 inches of legroom in the third row, which makes it a good option for kids but a temporary solution at best for taller teens and adults.

Although it’s been updated for 2025, you’d be forgiven for not being able to tell at first glance — the changes are subtle. But considering how arguably good-looking the XC90 remains even now, nearly a decade on from its launch, Volvo is demonstrating a brilliant “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it” strategy.

Updated infotainment software
The 12.3-inch driver information display and 11.2-inch center screen have been updated to Volvo’s latest interface, making the most of this Google-based infotainment system.

Refreshed interior
The XC90’s premium materials and subtle color palette make for one of the most compelling and comfortable cabins in this class.

Advanced safety systems
From the Pilot Assist steering guidance and speed control system to the blind-spot, pedestrian, cross-traffic, and reverse detection systems, the XC90 puts a premium on keeping its occupants safe.

Adaptive air suspension
While many premium SUV makers use an adaptive air suspension to deliver varying levels of (often too-stiff) performance, the XC90’s adaptive air suspension is focused on comfort while maintaining composure.

Abundant technology
The XC90’s tech menu includes wireless phone charging, a host of USB and 12-volt ports, Apple CarPlay, a head-up display, and a premium Bowers & Wilkins audio system.

T8 PHEV
Whether you prioritize the 33-mile all-electric range, or 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque, the XC90 T8’s plug-in hybrid drivetrain is both practical and fun.

The 2025 XC90 offers a choice of three powertrains: The base B5 and midrange B6 are both mild hybrids, while the top-spec T8 is a plug-in hybrid. All three use an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The B5 employs a 247-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 258 lb-ft of torque. Maximum towing capacity is 4,000 pounds.

The B6 uses a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder unit rated for 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The B6 can tow up to 6,000 pounds.

Finally, there’s the XC90 T8, a PHEV with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that develops 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. The XC90 T8 can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty

Volvo’s vehicle and powertrain warranties last four years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first, and include roadside assistance, a typical arrangement for luxury marques. The first three scheduled services are free, up to three years or 36,000 miles. Hybrid batteries are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles, as required by federal law.

Safety Ratings

The Volvo XC90 has been named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and earned the maximum 5-Star overall score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).