2017 Volvo XC90
Sophisticated luxury
The XC90 returns for the 2017 model year off the heels of a comprehensive redesign. Last year's debut saw a complete reinvention of Volvo's flagship SUV, so you'd be forgiven for thinking Volvo would use this year to catch its breath, but that isn't so.
The 2017 XC90 is the epitome of sophisticated luxury, and it rolls into the new year with a host of new changes. The Inscription trim has been dropped from the T5 but adds an 8-inch driver's display; LED headlights; and, on R-Design trims and higher, Apple CarPlay®. Meanwhile, the T8 gains a new Excellence trim, which adds heated and ventilated massaging rear seats, a built-in refrigerator, and a 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system.
Performance
The 2017 Volvo XC90 is available with three different engines—all of which deliver a potent mix of power, performance, and efficiency.
First up is the XC90 T5. It's powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It's available with front- or all-wheel drive and, like all XC90 models, is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
EPA-estimated fuel economy for the T5 is 24 mpg combined (22 city/26 highway) and 23 mpg combined (22 city/25 highway).*
The Volvo XC90 T6 sports an innovative 2.0-liter supercharged and turbocharged four-cylinder engine that serves up 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive comes standard on all T6 models, making it a top choice for drivers that desire more traction and control on slippery surfaces like rain, mud, and snow.
EPA-estimated fuel economy for the T6 checks in at an impressive 22 mpg combined (20 city/25 highway).*
Volvo also offers an XC90 T8 “Twin Engine” model with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It features the same 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged engine and eight-speed automatic with an added electric motor and 9.2-kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
Together, both power sources yield 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough for a 0 to 62 mph time of 5.9 seconds, while the top speed remains 143 mph. EPA fuel economy figures estimate pure-electric range at 14 miles. When in hybrid mode, the T8 returns an estimated 25 mpg combined.* With those numbers combined, the EPA has awarded the T8 a 53 MPGe efficiency estimate.*
Features
The 2017 Volvo XC90 is a five-door SUV with seating for up to seven passengers. It’s available in four trim levels (Momentum, R-Design, Inscription, and Excellence) with prices starting at $45,750.**
Momentum models come with a generous complement of standard equipment, including 18-inch alloy wheels; adjustable drive modes; LED headlights and fog lights; automatic high beams; panoramic sunroof; and a convenient hands-free power tailgate. A rearview camera, rear parking sensors, lane departure warning, and keyless entry/ignition are also standard.
The R-Design trim level gets 20-inch alloy wheels and a number of sporty elements, including a unique grille and exterior accents, a sport steering wheel with shift paddles, upgraded sport seats, and Apple CarPlay®. The R-Design also features leather upholstery, illuminated step plates, and aluminum mesh cabin accents and lighting upgrades.
The XC90 Inscription is similar to the R-Design but features its own wheels and interior and exterior trim. Inscription models also benefit from upgraded leather upholstery, heated front seats, ventilated front seats with adjustable side bolsters, and rear side window shades.
The Excellence trim is only available on T8 models and turns the XC90 into a veritable four-seat luxury limousine. In place of a rear bench seat, the T8 Excellence adds two captain's chairs with footrests, a rear center console with folding trays, a touchscreen controller, heated and cooled cupholders, and two crystal glasses.
In the Excellence, all four seats come standard with ventilation, heat, and massage functions. Additional upgrades include bright exterior trim, 21-inch wheels, extended leather upholstery, additional sound deadening, and a refrigerator.
Design
There simply is no other way to describe it: the 2017 Volvo XC90 is sculpted and stylish. The traditional Volvo grille with diagonal slash takes on a whole new shape, and it’s flanked by distinctive T-shaped “Thor’s Hammer” daytime running lights.
The sides of the car are curvaceous, allowing it to blur the line between tough truck and sleek car. At the back, there’s a new take on the previous-generation XC90’s tall taillights that Volvo describes as “tattoo-like.”
Inside, the 2017 XC90's interior is the most luxurious yet, and that’s no exaggeration. It’s designed around a tablet-like central screen that takes the place of virtually all switches and buttons. An unparalleled level of craftsmanship is apparent in items like the diamond-cut starter button and volume controls and crystal glass shifter from famous Swedish glassmaker Orrefors.
Safety
Volvo is known for its emphasis on safety, and the 2017 XC90 doesn’t disappoint. Its list of standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, front collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and a full array of airbags.
Optional safety features include the Vision Package, which adds blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. The Convenience Package includes park assist, adaptive cruise control, and a lane-keeping aid.
Bottom Line
The 2017 Volvo XC90 redefines the luxury SUV segment with its impressive combination of style, technology, and performance.
Be sure to contact us online or visit Volvo Cars Silver Spring at 3121 Automobile Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20904 to arrange a test drive.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.
Image Credit: Volvo