Volvo XC90

Model Years Produced: 2016 to Current

Summary

Volvo has always been the forgotten alternative to German brands like BMW and Mercedes, and the second-generation XC90 is a shot fired across the bow at them. The interior and exterior both are simply stunning, with a level of character that the Germans lack. Volvo’s unique approach to a luxury SUV extends under the hood as well, where all the engines are just variations of the same 4-cylinder – one which they’ve managed to push to a stunning 400 horsepower thanks to the addition of a plug-in hybrid system on the top “T8” drivetrain.

Reliability is one of the weak points. Mark of SavageGeese suffered a supercharger failure on his personal T6 engine-equipped XC90 – though its repair was covered under warranty. Fortunately, Volvo does offer some pretty generous warranty options – up to 10 years or 999,999 miles.

---

Verdict

Pros

• Stunning looks
• Interior feels very modern
• Seats are great
• Extended warranty options for new/CPO cars (up to 10yrs/1 million miles)
• Bowers & Wilkins stereo is exceptional – it tests better than just about any car cheaper than $120k
• Safety is top-tier
• Fuel economy is good for this class

Cons

• Reliability is bad – Consumer Reports called this one of the top 5 least reliable vehicles of 2021
• Infotainment is laggy, and the HVAC controls are integrated into it so you have to wait for the infotainment to boot before you can change your climate settings
• Not as fun to drive as its German competitors
• All the engines are 4-cylinders, and they feel unrefined compared to their German competitors

---

Reviews

Consumer Reports

• URL: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volvo/xc90/2022/overview/
• Overall score: 56/100
• Road test: 84/100
• Predicted reliability: 1/5
• Predicted owner satisfaction: 3/5

SavageGeese

Other Outlets

• Car & Driver: https://www.caranddriver.com/volvo/xc90
• Motor Trend: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/volvo/xc90/

---

Specifications

All figures are as of 2022 model year.

• Transmission: Aisin 8-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: FWD standard, AWD optional
  • 2-speed transfer case not available
  • Electronically locking center differential not available
  • Electronically locking rear differential not available
• Base curb weight: 4354 lbs
• Max cargo capacity: 85.7 cu ft
• Seating: 3 rows
• Rear leg room: 37.0  in
• Towing capacity: 4000 lbs

Engines