2027 Volvo XC90MotorTrend - MotorTrend (MotorTrend - MotorTrend)Impressive exterior and interior designStrong safety reputationRelaxing road mannersExcessive touchscreen controlsThird row is tightFundamentally oldVolvo's largest SUV showcases the automaker’s approach to design, technology, and luxury. The XC90 provides three-row seating capacity and three turbocharged powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid.This generation of XC90 was originally introduced for 2016, but a major refresh for the “2025.5” model year keeps it relevant. Volvo also makes the EX90, something of an all-electric counterpart to the XC90. Luxury three-row SUV rivals include the Lexus TX, Genesis GV80, and Lincoln Aviator.What’s NewBasicsEasier to disable engine stop/start with B5 and B6 powertrainsRevised T8 powertrain has improved efficiency, less powerTightened configuration and trim structureExteriorForest Lake green paint introducedB5, B6, and T8 variants now available with 22-inch wheelInteriorPlus trim gains standard Harman Kardon audio, integrated sunshadesWhat We ThinkAlthough it rides on decade-old fundamentals, the Volvo XC90 still feels current in the luxury three-row SUV class. Exterior updates from the 2025.5 refresh are subtle, but the design remains polished and modern.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe bigger changes are inside, where Volvo revised the cabin with new styling details and a larger, more capable infotainment touchscreen. Sustainable materials used throughout contribute to an upscale atmosphere.On the road, the XC90 is competent enough, but some rivals are more rewarding to drive. The interior update also leaves the tight third row untouched, and some of the new digital controls for basic functions are less intuitive than they should be.For buyers seeking a comfortable, stylish, and safety-focused three-row SUV, the XC90 still fits the bill. At an age when vehicles are often replaced, the XC90 remainscompetitive thanks to Volvo’s improvements.Top-Ranked Competitors:Lexus TXAudi Q7Lincoln AviatorGenesis GV80MotorTrend TestedRegardless of engine, every XC90 uses an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD.B5Engine: 2.0-liter turbo-fourHorsepower/Torque: 247 hp/266 lb-ftAcceleration (0–60 mph): 7.3 seconds (est)B6Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4Horsepower/Torque: 295 hp/310 lb-ftAcceleration (0–60 mph): 6.5 secondsT8Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 and electric motorHorsepower/Torque: 401 hp/494 lb-ftAcceleration (0–60 mph): 5.2 seconds (est)MPGs and RangeFuel economy for the XC90 B5 is 22/27 mpg city/highway. This base engine can go about 450 miles on a full tank of gas.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe B6 engine returns 20/26 mpg and has about 430 miles of range between fill-ups.The previous T8 PHEV powertrain used up until 2026 was good for 27 mpg and 58 mpg-e in combined driving. All-electric driving range was 33 miles, and total driving range was 530 miles. Volvo expects these figures to improve with the updated T8 powertrain introduced for 2027.Updated T8 PHEV EngineFor 2027, the T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain is revised. Previously, it was based around the B6 turbocharged and supercharged engine. This year, it switches to the B5 turbocharged engine. However, the electric motor at the rear axle becomes more powerful.Still, system output is down overall, going from 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque to 401 hp and 494 lb-ft. Volvo says this will result in only a 0.1-second-longer 0–60-mph acceleration run while enabling greater efficiency and reduced fuel consumption.Safety Ratings and FeaturesIn its most recent testing for 2026, the XC90 earned a five-star overall crash safety score from NHTSA. The SUV received 2026 Top Safety Pick status, the second-best accolade from IIHS.AdvertisementAdvertisementEvery XC90 has front and rear automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and automatic high-beams.Cargo Space and Interior RoomPackaging in the XC90 isn’t ideal. Its small third row is sized primarily for children. Some of its competitors offer significantly more cargo capacity.TechnologyInfotainmentAll XC90 models have a standard 11.2-inch infotainment touchscreen and 12.3-inch gauge cluster display. The user interface features familiar Google apps, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s a wireless charging pad in the front row, and USB charging ports throughout the cabin.Sound SystemA 10-speaker audio system is equipped in the Core trim. A 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium setup is added to the midrange Plus trim for 2027 and remains standard in the high-end Ultra trim. A 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins high-end system is available as an upgrade.Available UpgradesOptional tech features include a head-up display, 360-degree camera, and digital rearview mirror. Volvo also offers a mobile app for remote monitoring and control of vehicle functions.ValueStandard FeaturesPricing for the 2027 XC90 starts at approximately $63,000 in Core trim with the B5 engine. It includes 20-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, roof rails, and a panoramic moonroof. The cabin is equipped with a seven-seat layout, leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, four-zone climate control, and an 11.2-inch infotainment touchscreen.Recommended TrimOur choice is the midrange Plus trim, especially as it gains upgraded speakers and integrated sunshades for 2027. Other premium features for the Plus trim include 21-inch wheels, a 360-degree camera, and side parking sensors. Skip the lethargic B5 powertrain and get the stronger B6 or T8 instead.Does Volvo Make an All-Electric XC90?The EX90 is effectively an electric counterpart to the XC90. Introduced for 2025, Volvo’s three-row EV SUV has a design similar to the XC90 but has a dual-motor electric powertrain with about 300 miles of range and swifter acceleration.AdvertisementAdvertisementIts cabin differs from the XC90 in both design and technology, though both SUVs are aimed at buyers seeking upscale three-row family transportation. Read all about the Volvo EX90 here.