Looking for a luxurious, comfortable but decently fun SUV? Then the 2025 Volvo XC-90 T8 Recharge might be one of the greatest options out there. You don’t normally get comfort and fun all in one vehicle, its always a compromise but with this XC-90, you do get both. Now I’m not saying it’s a sports SUV but it is also far from boring.
Engine/Transmission
The 2025 XC-90 Recharge has a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. The electric motor is what gives it that extra boost of 143 hp and 228 lb-ft of torque. All wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission is standard on all XC-90s. With this Plug-In hybrid, you can get an electric range of 53km. Now of course as we all know this is dependent on weather, driving style, road conditions, etc. It is estimated at 8.7 L/100km and as I mentioned previously in my XC-60 review, you could very well drive on electricity alone if your commute is within the 53km. This will save you fuel and all you will have to really worry about is charging every night.
Handling/Performance
While driving the XC-90 on windy roads, you will notice that it rolls a bit to the sides but that’s because it isn’t a sports SUV. That’s totally fine though because it compensates with its looks, comfort and speed from a start thanks to its electric motor. Although it may feel like it rolls a bit more than other luxury SUVs, I do like that the steering is very responsive to your inputs. Due to its air suspension, the ride is smooth. It absorbs bumps quite nicely and going over uneven pavement isn’t as bumpy. During highway drives, it is quite smooth, and road noise isn’t as intruding. It is designed to truly enjoy the drive comfortably. As a large SUV, you should already know that even though it accelerates quick, it doesn’t stop as quick. If you hit the brakes late, you will notice that the nose dives and its not so pleasant. Although I haven’t seen a XC-90 be used to tow, it does have a towing capacity of 4000 lbs and depending on the trim level it has a max tow rating of 5000 lbs.
Interior
The interior of the XC-90 Recharge is a nice place to be in. It is very elegant and classy looking. It has great materials all throughout the cabin and is equipped with a 9.0-inch infotainment screen which will change to a bigger size in late 2025 models. It is also very spacious in the driver and passenger seats for all adults. The 2nd row is also quite spacious for adults, it’s the 3rd row that might be the issue for some adults. I am 5ft 10inches and didn’t really have any issue fitting in the 3rd row, but it is not a place I would want to sit for a long period of time. It could get quite uncomfortable and squishy. For children, however, it should not be an issue. One issue a big chunk of people might have, is the lack of physical buttons and since Volvo has had a reputation for its unreliable tech system, I know this might be an iffy situation. Luckily, I had no technical issues, and the infotainment system worked just fine. I would like physical buttons, but I think that on any Volvo vehicle, the less the better.
Exterior
I’m not a fan of a lot of boxy SUVs but the XC-90 is one of my top 3 boxy SUVS that I really like. Due to its boxy look, you get the advantage of extra cargo space in the trunk. It is equipped with 21-inch alloy wheels and overall, just a great exterior.
Pros/Cons
Although the price tag may be a bit hefty, it sure is worth it in my opinion. It checks quite a few boxes and in the long run is a considerable SUV. it is a large 3rd row SUV, it is luxurious, comfortable and spacious, has a decent fuel economy and electric range and a fun SUV to drive around town. There may be other less expensive options out there that are not as luxurious but if luxury is a must, then Volvo is one to consider. The price of the 2025 Volvo XC-90 T8 Recharge is $98,898 CAD ($81,765USD).
2025 Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge Gallery
