2020 Volvo XC90 Review
Overview
Credited with kick-starting Volvo's design renaissance when it appeared for the 2016 model year, the 2020 XC90 remains one of the most stylish options among luxury SUVs. It's powered by one of three different four-cylinder power-trains, including a plug-in hybrid, and can be had in six- or seven-passenger configurations. Inside, buyers will find a cabin that epitomizes Scandinavian luxury, highlighted by fine materials such as nappa leather, real wood trim, and tasteful chrome accents. A vertically oriented infotainment touchscreen provides controls for the majority of the XC90's systems and settings, and a driver-facing 12.3-inch screen serves as a digital gauge cluster. As with all Volvos, the 2020 XC90 is focused on safety as much as it is on luxury, and a host of driver-assistance features are standard across the board.
What's New for 2020?
The XC90 receives a visual freshening for 2020 by way of a new grille and front bumper; Volvo also has restyled the XC90's wheels. Base Momentum models now come with low-profile roof rails and integrated tailpipes while sporty R-Design models swap matte silver exterior trim for gloss black. All XC90 models now come standard with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, R-Design and Inscription trims gain front parking sensors as standard, and Volvo has tweaked the operation of both the rear cross-traffic alert feature and added active-steering support for the City Safety driver-assistance feature. Inside, Momentum models now can be ordered with Black Ash wood trim, R-Design models come with nappa leather upholstery, and T8 Inscription models sport a restyled shifter made from Orrefors crystal. Both the Momentum and Inscription models will now offer a six-passenger layout with second-row captain's chairs. The T8 plug-in hybrid model now comes with a larger 11.6-kWh battery; the ultra-loaded (and ultra-pricey) Excellence trim is no longer offered.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
- Momentum: $49,345
- R-Design: $57,095
- Inscription: $63,595
Volvo's largest SUV is best had with the mid-range T6 engine—a 316-hp turbo- and supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder—and dressed in Inscription trim. For the $6500 increase versus the mid-range R-Design, the Inscription adds a host of features that we expect luxury SUV buyers will have on their short list, including ventilated front seats, lane-keeping assist, a Harman/Kardon audio system, and 20-inch wheels, and a statelier exterior design.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The XC90 can be had in three versions, all of them riffs on the theme of Volvo's 2.0-liter turbo four. The base model, features the 250-hp turbocharged T5 engine paired with front-wheel drive. The more powerful T6 version adds supercharging to the turbocharging system to result in 316 horsepower. It's optional in the base Momentum trim and standard in Inscription models; the engine only pairs with all-wheel drive. The 400-hp plug-in hybrid XC90 T8 starts with the T6 power-train and adds two electric motors and a charging port on the exterior. It features Volvo's optional air suspension, which adds Eco, Comfort, Off Road, and Dynamic drive modes along with individually customizable suspension settings. That suspension provides a pleasant, insulated ride, and it handles most road situations well.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
In addition to delivering rapid acceleration, the T8 plug-in version will run on electricity alone. The 2020 XC90 received a larger battery pack and its range has not yet been rated by the EPA, but the 2019 model and its smaller battery offered up to 17 miles of electric-only range.
Fuel Economy
When equipped with its turbo- and supercharged engine, the XC90 achieves similar EPA ratings to those of its V-6 competitors. I expect a longer real-world electric-driving range with the 2020 model's larger battery pack.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The XC90's interior is a masterpiece of the medium. From the attractive design to the quality of the materials, we wish there were more vehicles like this. Adults won't be happy in the third row, despite the fact that it offers more legroom than similar rivals, but preteens can probably be persuaded, provided the journey is short. The XC90's wide, boxy silhouette helps in the cargo-hauling department, but interior compartments aren't as cavernous as in some competitors.
Infotainment and Connectivity
A handsome, tablet-like 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard in all XC90s, and its operation is mostly intuitive. Every model has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability; a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot is optional. The system could be improved by adding more redundant hard buttons.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The XC90 was rated as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in 2019 and earned a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), making it a good choice for drivers who prioritize safety. Volvo's commitment to safety is legendary, and it has put all of its best technology in the XC90. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Standard lane-departure warning
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The XC90 has a merely average warranty plan versus competitors. However, Volvo outdoes them by offering excellent complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Power-train warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
- Hybrid components are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles.
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