Our Opinion - 2026 Volvo XC90 Review The Volvo XC90 is the best mid-size luxury SUV, even though there are many stylish models with nice interiors to choose from. Last year, Volvo updated the XC90 by adding some new technology inside and making it look better on the outside. There are two turbocharged four-cylinder engines to choose from. The B6 engine, which is more powerful, has a supercharger to improve efficiency. We also suggest a hybrid model, which we try on its own. There is a sense of security and strength about the XC90, and it is easy to drive. All three models have three rows of seats, which is great for families. However, the third row will only be fun for kids. What's New? In 2025, the XC90 got a whole new look, but when it returned in 2026, there weren’t any major changes. Pros and Cons Pros: Still, it’s a good choice all around. All around, an amazing concept. A great history of safety. Cons: There are no physical buttons. It’s hard to get to the tiny third row. Just good manners while driving. Engine, Transmission, and Performance Both the B5 and B6 powertrains are supported by a 48-volt hybrid system. The B5 model’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 247 horsepower. Upgrading to the B6 motor raises the output to 295 horsepower. No matter the engine or trim level, an XC90 comes with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive. As with many cars in this class, the Volvo leans a little around corners, but the steering is very precise, and the wheel has a nice weight that makes it feel both light and heavy at the same time. Our test vehicle’s optional air suspension made the ride smooth and comfy. On top of that, it worked well in most traffic situations. One of the few things that worries me about the otherwise beautiful XC90 is that the frame makes a faint noise when it hits really sharp bumps, which suggests there are some small issues with the road. Safety Volvo is known for putting safety first, and its three-row car comes with many features that help the driver. Some important safety features are: Bikes and people walking are both detected by standard automatic emergency braking. Normal lane-keeping help, including a warning if you start to drift out of your lane. Adaptive cruise control can keep the car in its lane by default. Internal and External Cargo Capacity The XC90’s interior is a masterclass in modesty. It has a clean look and is made of high-quality materials that make it feel warm and inviting. The XC90 has a sleek dashboard, high-quality materials, and a number of textile upholstery choices. Each type has five, six, or seven seats. But people in the third row won’t be happy if the trip lasts too long. Even though the XC90’s wide, boxy shape makes it easier to move cargo, its interior storage isn’t as large as its competitors’. Fuel Economy and Actual MPG For the XC90 with the B5 engine, the EPA says it gets 22 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg overall. The B6 engine in the XC90 gets 20 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg total. With 26 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg all together, the T8 model is the most fuel-efficient. The XC90 B6 got 26 mpg on the highway at 75 mph, which matches the EPA’s estimate. Infotainment and Connectivity The XC90 comes with a 12.3-inch digital gauge panel and an 11.2-inch infotainment screen as standard. You can pick to have a head-up bar. Apple CarPlay is already on both iPhone screens, but the software interface is based on Google’s Android Automotive system. Voice commands can be used to talk to the Google Assistant, and the system provides built-in guidance from Google Maps. You can choose between a 14-speaker, 600-watt Harman/Kardon radio or a 19-speaker, 1410-watt Bowers & Wilkins system for high-end sound. A 10-speaker sound system and a 220-watt amplifier are standard parts of this design. Range, Charging, and Battery Life When we tested an XC90 B6 at 60 mph, it took 6.8 seconds, which was the longest time in its class. Volvo thinks a B5 version will reach 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, even though it hasn’t been tested yet. Towing and Payload Capacity Many XC90s can tow up to 5,000 pounds, but some models may not. This is important for people who want to tow boats, trailers, or other things. The most weight that an XC90 with the standard 247-hp B5 engine can pull is 4000 pounds, but any XC90 with the 295-hp B6 engine can do it. Price and How to Choose The price of the 2026 Volvo XC90 could range from $62,345 to $74,645, depending on options and specs. When it comes to making the perfect XC90, Volvo gives you a good amount of freedom. There is a good balance between luxury, price, and power, though. Start with the Plus trim, add the optional 295-hp B6 engine, and stick with the cheaper seven-passenger bench-seat layout instead of the more expensive second-row captain’s seats.
