The 2024 Volvo XC90 isn't your typical Audi Q7, BMW X5 or Mercedes-Benz GLE, and that's a good thing. Highlights include helpful technology features and a stylish cabin. The available plug-in hybrid powertrain provides a useful amount of all-electric range too. The XC90 might just be the easiest choice outside of something from Germany.Read full review
Available plug-in hybrid powertrain provides strong acceleration and high fuel economy
Cons
Some touchscreen controls can be hard to use
Third-row seats are tight for adults
What's new
No major changes for 2024
Part of the second XC90 generation introduced for 2016
Overview
by the Edmunds Experts
10/13/2023
On its own, the 2024 Volvo XC90 has a lot going for it. It's the largest SUV in the Swedish carmaker's portfolio, it's available as an efficient plug-in hybrid, and it's elegantly styled inside and out. With Volvo's fanatical devotion to safety tech, it's also a strong pick for growing families, but it's starting to show its age after eight years without a redesign. Still, even with nearly imperceptible changes this year (new wheels for the plug-in Recharge model), the XC90 remains one of the better luxury SUVs not from Germany, especially in plug-in hybrid form.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Volvo XC90 B5 Core 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.36 per gallon for premium unleaded in Illinois.
Among three-row midsize luxury SUVs, the Volvo XC90 distinguishes itself by offering a plug-in hybrid model. On a full charge, you should be able to log 32 miles of electric-only driving and once it's depleted, you'll still enjoy an impressive 27 mpg from the hybrid powertrain. In addition to the fuel savings and greener footprint, the XC90 comes with a comprehensive list of advanced safety features. You also get added assurance from its excellent crash test results, earning it a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Competitors to consider
The XC90 may have efficiency and safety mindedness in the bag, but a redesign may be needed to keep it competitive against some newer rivals. Both the Audi Q7 and Acura MDX deliver more enjoyable driving dynamics without sacrificing a comfortable ride quality. All of these SUVs are rather limited when it comes to third-row passenger space, but the MDX holds an advantage for its larger cargo capacity. For more luxury-minded shoppers, the Mercedes GLE is an excellent choice. We point out where the XC90 leads and where it follows in our Expert Rating.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Average
7.5
out of 10
We drove the 2024 Volvo XC90 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Performance
7.5/10
How does the XC90 drive? The XC90 is a smooth operator on the road. We tested the Recharge T8 version, which has the plug-in hybrid powertrain. It's easy to drive sedately around town and accelerate quickly to highway speeds thanks to the powerful electric assist. At our test track, our test XC90 sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. That's about average for a three-row luxury SUV.
Emergency braking from 60 mph was a tad longer than the segment average, but the Volvo's low-grip all-season tires are mostly to blame for the longer distance. The brakes themselves are easy to modulate and make coming to a smooth, considered stop easy.
While you don't get anything more than average handling in the XC90, it's composed and sure-footed on the road thanks to its all-wheel-drive system. Its suspension also maintains excellent control of the XC90's considerable mass over most any type of road surface so you needn't shy away from a twisty, scenic back road.
Comfort
7.5/10
How comfortable is the XC90? While the seats are typically a highlight in Volvos, our test XC90 had wool upholstery instead of the typical leather. While it's nice to have a different material used, the wool is stretched tightly, and some of our editors thought they were a bit too firm. The ride quality is similarly taut, and even smaller lumps and bumps in the road can be felt through the seat. If it was up to us, we'd go for the leather seats and their softer padding (they also come with ventilation while the wool seats do not) and smaller wheels to ensure the ride is a tad more comfortable.
Those small gripes aside, the XC90 did prove to be a great cocoon. Outside noise and errant vibrations were kept to a minimum, and the high-quality feel of the interior only adds to the XC90's credibility as a modern luxury SUV.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? The XC90's interior is generally spacious, and visibility is excellent thanks to the big windows. Room is abundant in the first two rows, but it's best to leave the third row to people no larger than most toddlers. It's also easy to get in and out, and models with the air suspension can lower the ride height quickly as you walk up to the car or as you exit.
Our only gripe with the XC90's interior has always been that it isn't the easiest to use. A distinct lack of physical buttons means using the infotainment requires too much menu diving, and adjusting settings that are buried deep in the system is a chore that will almost certainly take attention away from the act of driving. We wish Volvo would embrace physical shortcut buttons to make navigating its infotainment easier.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $6,659 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $6,659 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the Recharge T8 Plus trim.
How’s the tech? Audiophiles will love the XC90's optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system. To our ears, it's one of the best audio systems available in a car right now. The XC90's infotainment interface, though distracting to use at times, is packed with features. Google integration means navigation is a cinch and Google's voice recognition is second to none. Apple CarPlay is also included.
Volvo's driver aids are top-notch. The adaptive cruise control is easy to engage, maintains consistent gaps, and is smooth to both speed up or slow down. The lane keeping system is also spot-on most of the time.
Storage
7/10
How’s the storage? The XC90's upright profile enables a spacious cargo area, especially with the second- and third-row seats folded flat. There is a rather high floor, but the XC90's optional air suspension can be used to lower the vehicle's ride height for easier loading. Under the cargo floor is a space for carrying plug-in charging cords and other small items, and there are backpack-size cubbies on either side as well. Small-item storage is limited in the front. The slim and graceful-looking center console has two cupholders alongside tiny trays. Volvo designed the cabin more for style than functionality.
When it comes to installing child safety seats, the second row has easily accessible car-seat anchor points. The dual third-row seats, however, have no anchor points for hooking in car seats. We also wish the doors opened at a wider angle to make maneuvering a car seat into place a little easier.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
8/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates that standard XC90s with the base powertrain get 23-24 mpg in combined city/highway driving. We tested the XC90 Recharge, however, which is a plug-in hybrid. According to the EPA, it can go 32 miles on battery power alone. That aligns almost perfectly with our test results. On our real-world test route, the XC90 Recharge went 31.5 miles on pure electric power. After the gas engine took over, the XC90 managed 28.1 mpg, which is comparable to the EPA's estimate of 27 mpg combined and a few mpg better than most other luxury hybrid SUVs.
Value
7.5/10
Is the XC90 a good value? The XC90 Recharge we tested is a pricey machine. That said, we think you're getting your money's worth with the high-quality cabin materials, excellent build quality and extensive tech features. The XC90 does a great job of being fuss-free transport with a heavy dollop of genuine luxury. Volvo's warranty coverage is average for a luxury brand, which includes three years/36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance.
Wildcard
7/10
The latest XC90 generation has been around since 2016, and it hasn't changed much in the looks department in that time. As a result, the styling is getting a little dated. That said, if Swedish design — and the restraint that typically comes with it — is more your speed, the XC90 has appeal. It might not be the newest kid on the block, but there's something to be said for just how well the big Volvo holds its own against the rest of the pack.
Which XC90 does Edmunds recommend?
We recommend the Base trim level for most people because it comes with all of the basic features expected of a luxury SUV. You won't get some of the luxury and seat upgrades, nor are they available as options, but you will get plenty of safety features. We also suggest stepping up to the B6 powertrain since it's more powerful and doesn't significantly affect fuel economy.
We have had our XC90 for about 4 months now and have nothing but good things to say about it.
We bought the car because we wanted an electric car, but need to hit the road for a 500 mile trip about once a month. At this point in time, we don't have confidence in the electric recharge stops available, and we didn't want to add another hour (at best) to an already long trip. We also don't … want to have to "plan a trip" around the location of recharge stops. With this car, we feel we have the right car for the times, as we can go all month at home on electric and never burn a drop of fuel. But, when we have to hit the road, we don't deal with "range anxiety" or any prolonged stops along the way. We just get in and go!
The car itself has performed well. We have not had any issues with the car and everything works just fine. We love all of the safety features as our last car did not have any of them. Blind spot alerts, back-up camera, 360 degree "Birds Eye" camera for parking, lane drift alerts, automatic adjusting cruise control and other alerts, all are helpful. We really appreciate the heads up display (HUD). It allows us to keep our eyes on the road, and we don't have to look anywhere else if we're just driving. All the info you need is right there, including navigation instructions.
We also find the car to be quiet, the stereo system to be excellent and have to our surprise, even used the third row of seats on a couple of occasions. With the third row seats folded down we have plenty of room to strap in a kennel for our special puppy. He pretty much goes where we go, and we appreciate having the rear seat air vents to keep him comfortable as well. Obviously, we are safety conscious, and the XC90 has been rated as one of the safest cars on the road. Inside the car, we feel very safe and secure, given the weight and solid build of the car. Performance has been more than adequate for our needs, and we wanted a car big enough for our four footed passenger in the back. We also wanted a luxury SUV, but appreciate flying under the radar as we didn't really want a "flashier car".
Lastly, we have found the infotainment center to be easy to use once you learn the system. Google maps work perfectly for us, and refreshes quickly if we change our route. The "hey google" voice commands work great for both my wife and myself.
We are overall very satisfied with our car. We are safer drivers now and are in a safer car that performs very satisfactorily for us. We love running on electric 95% of the time, but we are lucky in that we have short commutes so the 32 mile range works perfectly for us. As the electric charge system in the US continues to evolve, an all electric car will likely be in our future. For the next five or six years, we believe that we have found the right car for us and would highly recommend it.
6 month update: Volvo took a minimalist approach to their new (mid 2023) infotainment that we’re finding incredibly frustrating, which took away some worthwhile customization options. First to note, we had a 2020 R design and this is the inscription. I hate that they got rid of it. I liked the look and feel/ergonomics of the R design, but I get it, not a lot of folks looking for a sporty … looking 7 seater Volvo I guess. My biggest gripe is that It’s a great car if it weren’t for a frustrating level of user experience based on taking away simple options.
1. Incredibly frustrating - The sound system. Volvo says it has optimized the sound experience so you only have 3 selections on sound customization and no ability to balance the sound, only to select forward, back or middle. Here is the issue: in the middle option, barely ANY SOUND comes out of the back speakers (middle row). Our kids can’t hear anything when the speakers are “centered.” We took it to the dealer and confirmed this is the same in other cars. Our salesperson was surprised also when we confirmed it. It is a big design flaw. A couple of other salespeople were there and also were surprised, but clearly tried to downplay it. It’s very very noticeable and even more frustrating when it’s a good set of speakers which we’re paying for, and there is no way to mitigate this.
2. They took away drive modes, so except for a box to check for steering feel (firm or soft) there’s nothing. No customization - again.
3. When a sensor goes off because something is close to the car, it immediately goes to a 360 view. This means that every time a pedestrian walks in front of your car close by (which happens a lot in the city) it goes to that view and starts beeping. There is NO WAY to turn it off. So if you are trying to look at your directions at a red light, and people are walking in front of your car, it switches screens and you can’t see your next turn. It gets annoying quickly.
4. This is small, but in our last car we could pick the interior lighting color. It was cool and frankly we liked it. It adds a level of fun/luxury which at this price point was appreciated. And now it’s just white lighting, no options.
5. Waze is finicky at best, still end up using Apple CarPlay. It also doesn’t play on the dash - just google maps.
6. You can’t see what media/song is playing unless you’re in the music app. So no ability to see it while using any navigation app.
While the car overall is good, we’re very frustrated with the infotainment, especially compared to our 2020. This certainly didn’t feel like an upgrade, aside from the cooled seats, and actually felt downgraded with these missing important features. Also, we find this car lacks the steering feel of our 2020, but we get it’s not the R design. I will admit the engine is better in the B6, and our mileage is fantastic, it’s just a shame that the user experience is so frustrating. We thought we’d be Volvo lifers as we prefer the more subdued image vs the German rivals, and we LOVE the level of safety Volvo provides, but where before we thought it was a no-brainer to renew our lease, we’ll need to see if these changes are fixed or if we need to shop elsewhere.
6 month update:
I moved my rating from 2 to 4 stars. Everything works and the car has been reliable. Service is generally top notch. However, I am still frustrated by the infotainment not showing what music is playing while on map view and not having the option for balance/fade on the speakers. While our mileage is pretty good, I miss some of the sporty characteristics and driving modes of the R design. I really really dislike chrome trim. I’m not saying it doesn’t look good, but it makes the car look like everything else. My overall assessment has not changed unfortunately. While we like the car, the lack of character really brought it down a notch for us from thinking we were going to stick with Volvo for a long time, to “it’s a really good car, but let’s shop around.” Hoping they fix that especially since they do offer dark trim and even blackout editions on the smaller models, and what they took away is some relatively easy and cheap things to fix/add. That doesn’t mean you should shy away from Volvo, they’re still fantastic cars and provide great service, we just miss the personality.
Worst XC90 EVER MADE! Do not buy it!
1 out of 5 stars
FlyingBye, 02/06/2023
2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 Ultimate Dark 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A)
This car has had absolutely nothing but problems. The backup camera and sensors continue to violently
engage the ‘rear brake intervention’ system when there’s nothing weekend. The entertainment system screen goes black, has double exposure of data, flashes intermittently and freezes. Apple CarPlay doesn’t display maps and shows a big black box in the driver screen. Google Maps doesn’t … work in dashboard heads-up display.
The trim around the vehicle was faulty from the day I purchased it, I was told it would be replaced…that was October. The part just came in two weeks ago.
Volvo refuses to acknowledge there’s an issue. However, they did say there is a software update - IN APRIL! They are hoping this will fix many problems. But I shouldn’t have to wait 3 months for a POTENTIAL SOLUTION. This is a $80,000+ car, why are there so many problems? I don’t even have 1,500 miles on this car because it’s been in the shop so many times since I bought it in October. I’ve owned two previous new XC90s never have I had this amount of problems.
New 2023 XC90 Hybrid
5 out of 5 stars
R. Phillips, 11/28/2022
2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 Plus Dark 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A)
Took delivery 3 weeks ago after owning the 2016 XC90. Love the new hybrid. Much quieter and smoother ride than my 2016 and I have it without air suspension. Love using the Pure electric mode. Have not used any gas in the entire three weeks of ownership in my day to day 10 mile round trip work commute. Love the new Google interface of the infotainment system. Much needed improvement … over the old system. Much easier to use overall with easy access to temperature controls and much improved navigation system using Google Maps. So far I love it. Plug-in hybrid and changes for 2023 make it quite an improvement with much appreciated differences compared to my previous 2016 XC90.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2024 Volvo XC90, so we've included reviews for other years of the XC90 since its last redesign.
The Audi Q7 is currently our favorite in the class by a narrow margin. We like it for its well-built interior, excellent on-road manners, and long list of standard features. The Q7's base engine is more powerful than the XC90's midrange B6 and it may save you a few thousand dollars, too. Neither the Q7 nor the XC90 has particularly large third-row seats or cargo space behind them, but they are at least comparable.
The Acura MDX is the value leader in the class, ringing in several thousands less than the XC90. Don't think that it's a step down, though, as the MDX earns praise for its sporty driving dynamics, comfortable ride and large cargo capacity. Like the XC90, its third-row seats are best left to smaller passengers, but Volvo's infotainment system is less frustrating to use.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is our top-rated pick in the midsize (but not three-row) SUV class. It's priced competitively against the XC90, but the third-row seats will cost you extra. There are more powertrain choices with the GLE, including a raucous AMG version, but there's no plug-in hybrid option as there is with the Volvo. The GLE is a standout for its luxurious cabin and excellent infotainment system, but third-row space is very limited.
Currently the biggest Volvo on sale that's not a semi truck, the XC90 is a seven-passenger three-row SUV available with a traditional gasoline engine or as a plug-in hybrid. The XC90 has carved out something of a niche for itself among buyers who prefer low-key Scandinavian style and comfort over the autobahn-storming fantasies offered up by its German rivals. But that's not to say the XC90 can't get up and go. When equipped with its most potent engine and optional plug-in hybrid powertrain, the XC90 can scoot to 60 mph in just 5 seconds. As an added bonus this XC90 has an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 33 miles.
This current generation of XC90 is already 7 years old, meaning the SUV should be due for replacement by its succeeding generation any day now, but Volvo has seemingly signaled its true intentions for the XC90 with the introduction of the all-electric three-row SUV, the EX90. More or less a direct replacement for the XC90, the EX90 will become available in 2024 and will be sold alongside the XC90 until, well, the XC90 is simply no longer available. This is part of Volvo's plan to roll out EVs, replacing its internal combustion engine models one by one.
If it's too soon to start thinking of a fully electric SUV, there are plenty of other options currently on the market. BMW's X7, Audi's Q7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS SUVs all offer various takes on luxurious, tech-laden three-row luxury. And if you'd rather not wait for the EX90 to hit the showrooms, BMW, Audi and Mercedes all offer fully electric luxury SUVs right now.
Edmunds says
Like the old saying goes, "All good things must come to an end," and we think the Volvo XC90's days are numbered. With its eventual replacement, the all-electric EX90, due to hit showroom floors in 2024, it's possible this gasoline-powered three-row Swedish SUV may only be around for another year or two.
FAQ
Is the Volvo XC90 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 XC90 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.5 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2024 XC90 gets an average rating of 3 stars out of 5 (based on 33 reviews) And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Volvo XC90. Learn more
What's new in the 2024 Volvo XC90?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Volvo XC90:
No major changes for 2024
Part of the second XC90 generation introduced for 2016
To determine whether the Volvo XC90 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the XC90. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the XC90's 3-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2024 Volvo XC90 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Volvo XC90 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 XC90 and gave it a 7.5 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2024 XC90 gets an average rating of 3 stars out of 5 (based on 33 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 XC90 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Volvo XC90?
The least-expensive 2024 Volvo XC90 is the 2024 Volvo XC90 B5 Core 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $56,000.
Other versions include:
B5 Core 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $56,000
B5 Plus 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $59,900
B6 Core 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $60,900
B6 Plus 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $63,400
B6 Plus 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $63,900
B6 Ultimate 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $69,400
B6 Ultimate 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $69,900
Recharge T8 Core 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) which starts at $71,900
Recharge T8 Plus 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) which starts at $73,600
Recharge T8 Plus 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) which starts at $74,100
Recharge T8 Ultimate 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) which starts at $79,600
Recharge T8 Ultimate 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 8A) which starts at $80,100
If you're interested in the Volvo XC90, the next question is, which XC90 model is right for you? XC90 variants include B5 Core 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A), B5 Plus 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A), B6 Core 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 8A), and B6 Plus 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 8A). For a full list of XC90 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more