Key Takeaways
- The XC90 is the safest three-row SUV on sale, with a serene Scandinavian cabin that makes long family road trips genuinely pleasant
- Powertrain: 2.0L turbo/supercharged 4-cyl, 247-455 hp (B5/B6/T8 PHEV), achieving 25 combined (B5); 55 MPGe (T8) mpg
- Starting MSRP around $58,000 — positioned against the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7
- New for 2025: EX90 all-electric variant joins alongside the gas/PHEV XC90, updated Google OS
- Our pick: B6 Ultimate for the best luxury-for-money; T8 for plug-in efficiency
Overview
The XC90 is the safest three-row SUV on sale, with a serene Scandinavian cabin that makes long family road trips genuinely pleasant. The XC90 enters 2025 with meaningful updates: ex90 all-electric variant joins alongside the gas/phev xc90, updated google os. In a three-row luxury SUV segment that's never been more competitive, the Volvo XC90 distinguishes itself through a specific combination of qualities that its competitors can't quite replicate.
Starting around $58,000, the XC90 competes directly against the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7. Each of those competitors brings genuine strengths to the table, but the XC90 carves out its own niche by delivering The XC90 is the safest three-row SUV on sale. Whether that resonates with you depends on what you prioritize in a three-row luxury SUV.
What's New for 2025
EX90 all-electric variant joins alongside the gas/PHEV XC90, updated Google OS. These aren't just checkbox updates — Volvo has addressed real owner feedback and competitive gaps with these changes. The result is a XC90 that feels more complete and contemporary than the outgoing model in ways you'll notice daily.
Powertrain and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the XC90 runs 2.0L turbo/supercharged 4-cyl, 247-455 hp (B5/B6/T8 PHEV). In practice, this powertrain delivers smooth, predictable power for daily driving with enough reserve for confident highway merging and mountain passes. The transmission calibration prioritizes smoothness over sportiness in normal driving, saving the sharper responses for when you request them.
Fuel economy lands at 25 combined (B5); 55 MPGe (T8) — competitive for the three-row luxury SUV segment and achievable in real-world driving without hypermiling techniques. On a mixed highway/city commute, expect numbers close to the EPA estimate, which is more than some competitors can claim.
The chassis tuning strikes a balance between comfort and control. Road imperfections are absorbed without harshness, while highway stability inspires confidence at speed. The steering is well-weighted with a natural on-center feel. Body roll is managed well through sweeping highway ramps and parking lot maneuvers. This isn't a sports car, but the XC90 never feels sloppy or disconnected.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the XC90 presents a cabin that reflects Volvo's current design philosophy. Materials quality is appropriate for the $58,000 price point — you'll find soft-touch surfaces where your hands naturally rest, and the overall assembly quality suggests this cabin will hold up well over years of daily use. The driver's seat offers good support for commutes and road trips, with enough adjustability to accommodate a wide range of body types.
The infotainment system centers on a touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Response times are acceptable, menu structures are logical, and the most-used functions are accessible within one or two taps. A physical volume knob is present — a small detail that matters more than you'd think in daily driving.
Rear-seat space is competitive for the three-row luxury SUV segment. Two adults can ride comfortably on typical trips, and the rear doors open wide enough for easy child seat installation. Cargo space handles the daily demands of this vehicle's likely buyers — grocery runs, weekend gear, and occasional larger items with the rear seats folded.
Technology and Safety
Standard equipment includes Volvo's latest driver-assistance suite: automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist with lane centering, adaptive cruise control that works in stop-and-go traffic, and automatic high beams. These systems work unobtrusively in daily driving, providing a genuine safety net without constant false alerts or aggressive interventions.
Available technology upgrades include a larger touchscreen, premium audio, wireless charging, a head-up display, and enhanced surround-view camera. Higher trims add features like ventilated seats, a panoramic roof, and additional USB charging ports for rear passengers. Over-the-air updates keep the software current without dealer visits.
Pricing, Trims, and Value
The XC90 lineup starts around $58,000 for the base trim, which comes well-equipped with the full safety suite, smartphone integration, and modern infotainment. Mid-range trims add comfort and convenience features that most buyers will want — heated seats, a power liftgate (on SUVs), and upgraded audio typically live in this range.
Against the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7, the XC90 holds its own on features per dollar. The key question isn't whether the XC90 is a good value — it is — but whether its specific blend of strengths aligns with your priorities.
Our recommendation: B6 Ultimate for the best luxury-for-money; T8 for plug-in efficiency. This configuration hits the sweet spot of features, capability, and price, delivering the core XC90 experience without pushing into diminishing-returns territory at the top of the lineup.
How It Compares
The three-row luxury SUV segment is stacked with strong competitors. Here's how the XC90 stacks up against its main rivals:
Against the BMW X5: the XC90 competes on driving dynamics and technology, while the BMW X5 delivers a sportier driving experience. Cross-shop both before deciding.
Against the Mercedes-Benz GLE: different strengths play to different buyer priorities. Test drive both and see which cabin, driving feel, and feature set resonate with your daily needs.
Verdict
The 2025 Volvo XC90 is a well-executed three-row luxury SUV that earns its place on any buyer's short list. The XC90 is the safest three-row SUV on sale, with a serene Scandinavian cabin that makes long family road trips genuinely pleasant. That's a specific, compelling argument that not every competitor can match.
Buy the XC90 if you value what Volvo does best and want a three-row luxury SUV that handles daily life with competence and character. The B6 Ultimate trim delivers the core experience.
Look elsewhere if you prioritize maximum sportiness (cross-shop the BMW X5), the absolute lowest price in the segment, or a fundamentally different set of priorities than what the XC90 offers.