2018 Volvo XC90
Overview
The XC90 is the epitome of sophistication and luxury but also efficient and dependable when it counts. This four-door midsize luxury sedan is available in four trim levels and has a starting MSRP of $46,900.*
The XC90’s four trim levels include the Momentum, Inscription, R-Design, and Excellence. Each provides drivers with one of the most spacious and comfortable cabins on the market, accentuated by impeccable interior styling and premium materials. As you’d expect from Volvo, this SUV prioritizes safety above all else. Standard safety and tech features abound and include adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The Perfect Ride for…
Those looking for the epitome of luxury. Inside, you’ll find one of the most opulent cabins on the market with plenty of room for long-legged adults. You can opt for a third row to increase space, or you could upgrade to the more refined Excellence trim. The Excellence, the highest available trim on the XC90, features front and rear seats, all of which have heating, cooling, and massage capabilities. They also are able to slide and recline to optimize space and comfort, and between the back row, you'll have access to an available refrigeration compartment. That's cool in more ways than one.
Whichever trim level you choose, the XC90 delivers. Comfort and safety go hand in hand with cargo space, which affords you the best of both worlds. Whether you use the XC90 as a family car, a work commuter, or a weekend explorer, this vehicle is capable of wearing many hats.
Drive & Handling
The 2018 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, it's paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. EPA-estimated fuel economy for the T5 is 25 mpg combined (22 city, 29 hwy) with front-wheel drive and 24 mpg combined (22 city, 28 hwy) with all-wheel drive,** a slight bump from last year’s model.
The Volvo XC90 T6 sports an innovative 2.0-liter supercharged and turbocharged four-cylinder engine that serves up 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive comes standard on all T6 models, making it a top choice for drivers who 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 23 mpg combined (20 city, 27 hwy).**
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. Together, both power sources yield 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. What makes the T8 stand out, aside from its power, is its ability to drive about 14 miles on electric power alone. It also has an EPA-estimated 62 MPGe rating.** With gasoline power only, its gas mileage is 27 mpg combined.**
Key Features
Bowers & Wilkins® Premium Sound
An available Bowers & Wilkins® Premium Sound system brings exceptional sound quality and clarity to your music—it’s as if you’re sitting in Carnegie Hall. Seamlessly integrated into the XC90’s cabin, the 12-channel amplifier, 1400W output, and 19 individual high-end speakers will envelop you in sound like you’ve never heard before. The whole experience exudes expert craftsmanship and attention to detail, and the available system pairs perfectly with the now-standard Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™.
Standard Tech and Safety
Volvo has made a host of safety features standard this year, which arguably makes the 2018 XC90 the safest XC iteration yet. Adaptive Cruise Control with Pilot Assist, Lane Keeping Aid, Automatic Braking After Collision, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) and Cross Traffic Alert, Hill Descent Control, and City Safety Collision Avoidance are just a few of the standard driver-assistance and safety features the XC90 is outfitted with. But one of the coolest safety features on the 2018 XC90 is the Driver Alert Control. Utilizing a camera and your steering inputs, Driver Alert Control compares how you’re driving to your regular style. If it senses you're driving more erratically or distracted, it will audibly notify you and prompt you to pull over and take a break. It activates at speeds over 40 mph and is perfect for staying safe and alert on long road trips.
Alternative Options
The Volvo XC60 is a great option for those who would prefer a smaller ride that is just as sophisticated and safe as the XC90. The XC60 displays exterior styling and interior sophistication similar to the XC90, only with a smaller profile. If you could still do without the extra space, Volvo’s XC40 debuts next year, and it has you in mind. It’s the smallest of all Volvo next-generation cars and it’s also the most affordable. The XC40 maintains the nuts and bolts of Volvo’s larger SUVs, including the infotainment system and smartphone connectivity, but it shines with its smart storage solutions and bespoke design.
*Prices shown are Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), Base Price or Starting At price and excludes destination fees, taxes, title, license, and registration and/or electronic filing fees, dealer fees.
**EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
Image Credit: Volvo