The 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed automatic.Lightly refreshed exterior design.Six-seat option available for T6 and T8 Momentum and Inscription models.Digital driver display and road sign identification now standard.Expected increase in EV range for T8 plug-in hybrid.
Pros Elegant interior and exterior styling Precise handling that inspires confidence Spacious second- and third-row seating for a midsize SUV Many standard safety technology features Available as a plug-in hybrid
Cons Overly busy ride quality for a vehicle in its class Comes up short in performance and real-world fuel economy Some touchscreen controls can be hard to use
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.
Pros Sleek exterior, chic cabin, a plethora of standard driver-assistance features.
Cons Unrefined engine sounds, flinty ride, laggy infotainment response upon startup.
The 2020 Volvo XC90's #11 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Volvo XC90 has a score of 7.6 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 39 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros First-rate cabin materials Spacious seating and cargo areas Many standard tech and safety features Good fuel economy
Cons Poor predicted reliability rating Tepid performance from base engine Jittery ride when equipped with larger wheels
No significant changes for 2021.
Pros Turbocharged 500-hp V8 moves the SQ8 with authority Four-wheel steering keeps the big SUV feeling nimble Surprisingly comfortable given its performance bent Stylish, distinctive exterior
Cons Infotainment system can be distracting to use Driver's seat has few adjustments Limited interior storage
For its sophomore year, the SQ8 soldiers on with only one change: It now comes standard with a built-in toll-road-payment transmission feature.Upgrading to the Prestige trim costs $5500 but adds a host of driver-assistance and luxury features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, a head-up display with navigation guidance, fancier LED exterior lighting elements, soft-close doors, headlamp washers, heated rear seats, and power rear sunshades. If none of that sounds particularly important to you, save the cash and go with the Premium Plus. All SQ8 models come with the best performance-enhancing features Audi can throw at them, so no matter which one you choose, you're getting the same driving experience.
PROS Powerful V-8 engine, high-quality interior trimmings, aggressive exterior design.
CONS Some may regret not going with the RS Q8, braking performance could be better, thirsty powertrain.
Pros Sports-car fast Posh and spacious interior Plenty of infotainment tech
Cons Alternatives are more fun to drive Cheaper Q8 50TDI makes more sense Petrol-powered alternatives are more dramatic
