2025.5 Volvo XC90
The current generation of Volvo’s lineup began with the reimagining of the XC90. The luxury mid-size three-row SUV grew to its flagship status by being stately while keeping within Volvo’s brand values.
However, the 2025.5 XC90 has been challenged by newer entries into its size and price class. Because of its loyal customers, this SUV remains relevant even as it is getting on in years.
Do you think the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 is still relevant in your eyes?
The signature boxy appearance of the XC90 is retained in this latest update. The curves, textures and other visual tricks entertain the eye from the protection blade in the lower fascia to the oddly shaped tall taillight assembly.
For the mid-cycle of the 2025 model year, the front clip is updated focusing on a new geometrically designed grille. The “Thor” hammer headlamps were also tweaked with new LED elements. The glass space is generous with great vision along the sides and out back.
Our Ultra tester came with a splash of chrome, along with a set of 21-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels.
The XC90 has an interior is a marriage of form and function. The digital instrument cluster is customizable and dynamic. The instrument panel itself is a work of design precision, offering both luxurious touches and ergonomic simplicity. That also includes a new tablet-like infotainment screen that dominates the center stack. The switchgear for the XC90 is accessible offering great touch, feel, and logic.
The Ultra’s front seating offers both comfort and support with various settings to choose from. It is upholstered in a perforated leather up front, with just leather in the second- and third-rows. On top of power-assisted adjustments for height, rake, and recline, there are also bolster, lumbar, and cushion extension adjustments available for both the driver and front passenger.
Second-row occupants can adjust their seats for recline and rake. Third-row seating is easily accessible with a quick flip-move of the second-row outboard seat. There is also up to 85.7 cubic feet of expandable space available, once you fold down the second and third row of seats.
Powering our T8 tester is a plug-in hybrid driveline consisting of a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine and an electric motor. Combined, it puts down 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. This driveline is mated to an 8-speed transmission driving all four wheels. The plug-in system takes its energy from an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery first before the gasoline engine kicks in.
When the battery is full, Volvo states that you can get around 32 miles of range. It takes around five hours to charge up at home. In terms of fuel economy, we observed 25.7 MPG.
Overall, on the road performance was seamless between the two power sources. Acceleration was smooth and it does extremely well on the highway.
We love the air suspension equipped on this XC90. It absorbs everything in its way to make the ride very smooth and enjoyable over long stretches. The handling is on the soft side, with some lean and roll found on some maneuvers.
Steering the XC90 might not induce the tightest turning radius in its class, but it is very manageable. The steering action is excellent, just the right amount of effort for the job. On-center feel is good. We also found the brakes to be on the soft side with a spongy pedal feel. It turned in decent stops in normal, panic, and wet situations.
You have a choice of three power sources, including two mild hybrids and the T8 plug-in hybrid. There are also three trim levels available, as well. Pricing for the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 starts from $58,540. Our T8 Plug-In Hybrid all-wheel drive Ultra tester came with a sticker price of $88,895.
Volvo retains a loyal customer base, The 2025.5 XC90 is no exception. However, it has plenty of competition that keeps it in the game. Its rivals include the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Lexus TX and GX, Infiniti QX60, Genesis GV80, Cadillac XT6, and Lincoln Aviator.
When it comes to luxury three-row mid-size SUVs, the breadth of choice of there for you to see which one fits your lifestyle. Why not take a closer look at the 2025.5 Volvo XC90? It is something worth looking at for your next luxury family ride.
