A Detailed Review of the 2024 Volvo XC90
In the ever-crowded luxury SUV market, the Volvo XC90 has carved out a niche for itself. This Swedish offering prioritizes safety, comfort, and sophisticated Scandinavian design, all while boasting a powerful and versatile range of engines. But how does the 2024 XC90 fare against its rivals? Let's delve into a detailed review to see if this SUV giant still holds its own.
Elegant Design that Endures
While the XC90 has been around for a few years, Volvo's design language ensures it continues to look fresh and modern. The clean lines, signature Thor's Hammer headlights, and imposing stance exude a timeless elegance. The interior is a masterclass in minimalist luxury. High-quality materials like soft Nappa leather and genuine wood trim create a warm and inviting ambience. The large panoramic sunroof adds to the airy feel, while the vertically oriented touchscreen infotainment system dominates the center console.
Space for the Whole Crew (Mostly)
The XC90 excels in providing a comfortable and spacious environment for most passengers. The first two rows offer ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room, even for taller adults. The heated and ventilated seats with massage functionality are a welcome addition on long journeys. However, the third-row seating, while usable, is best suited for children or smaller adults due to limited legroom.
Powertrain Options for Every Need
Volvo offers three distinct powertrain options for the 2024 XC90, catering to a variety of driving preferences:
B5 Mild Hybrid: This 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system delivers a healthy 247 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. It provides a good balance of fuel efficiency and everyday performance.
B6 Mild Hybrid: Upgrading to the B6 bumps the power output to 300 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. This option offers a more spirited driving experience without sacrificing much in terms of fuel economy.
T8 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid: The top-of-the-line T8 is a plug-in hybrid that combines a turbocharged and supercharged gasoline engine with an electric motor. This powerhouse delivers a combined output of 455 horsepower and a staggering 523 lb-ft of torque, making the XC9 surprisingly quick for its size. Additionally, the T8 boasts an impressive electric-only range of up to 45 miles, allowing for emissions-free commuting.
Safety First, As Always Volvo is synonymous with safety, and the XC90 is no exception. It boasts a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including:
Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system
City Safety with automatic emergency braking for forward collisions and pedestrian detection
These features, along with a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), make the XC90 a fortress on wheels, ideal for families who prioritize passenger protection.
Technology with Room for Improvement
While the XC90's interior boasts a clean and sophisticated design, the infotainment system feels a touch outdated compared to some rivals. The vertically oriented touchscreen can be cumbersome to use at times, and the graphics aren't quite as sharp as some of the newer systems on the market. However, the system offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a built-in navigation system, ensuring you stay connected and informed on the road.
The Verdict: A Luxurious and Safe SUV with Staying Power
Despite being around for a while, the 2024 Volvo XC90 remains a compelling option in the luxury SUV segment. It offers a winning combination of elegant design, a spacious and comfortable interior (for most passengers), a range of powerful and fuel-efficient engines, and top-notch safety features. While the infotainment system could be improved, the overall package makes the XC90 a strong contender for those seeking a luxurious and practical family hauler.
Here's a quick recap of the XC90's pros and cons to help you decide:
Pros:
Elegant and timeless design
Luxurious and comfortable interior (mostly spacious)
Powerful and fuel-efficient engine options, including a plug-in hybrid
Top-notch safety features
Comfortable ride quality
Cons:
Cramped third-row seating
Infotainment system feels dated compared to rivals
If you're looking for a luxurious and safe SUV that prioritizes comfort and practicality, the 2024 Volvo XC90 is definitely worth considering
Beyond the Basics: A Closer Look at the 2024 Volvo XC90
Our review has covered the core aspects of the 2024 Volvo XC90, but let's delve a little deeper to explore some of the finer details that might influence your decision.
Trim Levels and Customization
The XC90 comes in three distinct trim levels:
B5 Momentum: This base trim offers all the essential features you'd expect in a luxury SUV, including a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, a premium sound system, and the aforementioned driver-assistance technologies.
B6 Inscription: Moving up to the Inscription trim adds a touch of opulence with upgraded Nappa leather upholstery, a more powerful sound system, and unique exterior design elements.
T8 Recharge Inscription: The top-of-the-line T8 plug-in hybrid comes standard in the Inscription trim, offering all the bells and whistles, including a heads-up display, four-zone climate control, and ventilated rear seats.
While each trim level offers a comprehensive set of features, Volvo also provides a decent range of options for further customization. You can personalize your XC90 with a variety of paint colors, wheel styles, and interior trim packages to create a car that reflects your individual style.
Focus on Comfort: The Driving Experience
The XC90 prioritizes a comfortable and refined driving experience. The well-tuned suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, making for a smooth and serene ride. The cabin is well-insulated, minimizing road noise and engine sounds, creating a peaceful environment for all passengers.
When it comes to handling, the XC90 isn't the most agile SUV on the market. Its size and weight become apparent when taking corners. However, the steering is responsive and precise, making it easy to maneuver in everyday driving situations.
Fuel Efficiency: Finding the Right Balance
The fuel efficiency of the XC90 depends on the engine you choose. The B5 mild hybrid offers a combined fuel economy of up to 28 mpg, making it a decent option for those who prioritize fuel efficiency. Opting for the B6 mild hybrid sacrifices a slight drop in fuel economy (around 26 mpg combined) for increased power.
The T8 plug-in hybrid shines in terms of fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated combined rating of 26 mpg when operating on the gasoline engine. However, the true benefit lies in its electric-only range. With up to 45 miles of electric driving, you can handle your daily commute or errands without using a drop of gasoline, significantly reducing your environmental impact and fuel costs.
Ownership Considerations
Volvo is known for its excellent reliability ratings, and the XC90 is no exception. The car is expected to hold its value well over time, making it a sound investment. Additionally, Volvo offers a competitive warranty package, including a comprehensive 4-year/50,000-mile warranty and a complimentary scheduled maintenance plan for the first 3 years.
However, the XC90's maintenance costs can be on the higher side compared to some rivals. Luxury car ownership comes with a premium, and the XC90 is no different when it comes to parts and service costs.
The Competition: How Does the XC90 Stack Up?
The luxury SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with several strong contenders vying for your attention. Here's a quick comparison of the XC90 with some of its key rivals:
Audi Q7: The Q7 offers a more dynamic driving experience and a slightly more spacious interior. However, the base model comes with a less powerful engine, and the infotainment system can be overly complex.
BMW X5: The X5 boasts a sportier handling and a more engaging driving experience. However, it falls short on fuel efficiency compared to the XC90, especially the T8 plug-in hybrid.
Mercedes-Benz GLE: The GLE offers a luxurious interior and a range of powerful engine options. However, its infotainment system can be challenging to use, and the starting price is generally higher than the XC90.
The Final Word: Still a Strong Contender
The 2024 Volvo XC90 might not be the newest kid on the block, but it remains a compelling option in the luxury SUV segment. It offers a unique blend of Scandinavian design, exceptional safety features, a comfortable ride, and powerful and versatile engine options, including a fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid. While the infotainment system could be improved, and the third-row seating is best suited for children, the overall package makes the XC90 a strong contender for those seeking a luxurious, safe, and practical family SUV. Whether your priority is comfort, efficiency, or a combination of both,
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the 2024 Volvo XC90
Here are some of the most common questions potential buyers have about the 2024 Volvo XC90:
What are the cargo space dimensions of the XC90?
The cargo space behind the third-row seats measures 15.8 cubic feet. With the third row folded down, cargo space increases to 41.5 cubic feet, and folding down the second row provides a maximum of 85.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity.
Does the XC90 offer a towing capacity?
Yes, the XC90 can tow up to 5,000 pounds depending on the engine option chosen. The B5 mild hybrid offers the lowest towing capacity, while the B6 mild hybrid and T8 plug-in hybrid boast the maximum capacity.
What are some of the standard features included in the XC90?
All XC90 trims come standard with a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, a premium sound system, a vertically oriented touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a suite of driver-assistance features including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system, and the aforementioned Volvo City Safety suite with automatic emergency braking.
What are the warranty coverage details for the XC90?
Volvo offers a competitive warranty package for the XC90. It includes a comprehensive 4-year/50,000-mile warranty that covers repairs for most defects in materials and workmanship. Additionally, Volvo provides a complimentary scheduled maintenance plan for the first 3 years of ownership.
How much does it cost to maintain a Volvo XC90?
Luxury car ownership typically comes with higher maintenance costs compared to mainstream vehicles. While Volvo is known for its reliability, the XC90's parts and service costs can be on the steeper side. It's recommended to factor in potential maintenance expenses when budgeting for ownership.
Is the XC90 a good choice for families?
The XC90 is a great choice for families with young children. The spacious first two rows offer ample legroom and headroom for comfortable seating. However, the third-row seating is best suited for occasional use by children or smaller adults due to limited legroom. Additionally, the XC90's excellent safety features provide peace of mind for parents.
Should I consider the XC90 over its competitors?
The decision ultimately depends on your individual priorities. If you prioritize a comfortable ride, exceptional safety features, and a fuel-efficient option like the plug-in hybrid, the XC90 is a strong contender. However, if a more dynamic driving experience or a more spacious interior is your top concern, you might want to explore rivals like the Audi Q7 or the BMW X5.
By considering these FAQs and the information presented in this comprehensive review, you should be well-equipped to make an informed decision about whether the 2024 Volvo XC90 is the right luxury SUV for you.