Name: Volvo XC90 (2015 - present) | Expert Rating | The Car Expert
Item: Volvo XC90
Rating: 77

Summary

The Volvo XC90 is a large seven-seat premium SUV, which shares its architecture with the Volvo S90 saloon and V90 estate. The current model is the second generation, which arrived in the UK in early 2015 and received a mid-life update in the summer of 2019.

Volvo makes what is almost certainly a unique claim for the XC90 – that “not a single Volvo XC90 occupant has died in a car-to-car accident in the UK” since the original model was launched in 2002.

The Volvo XC90 has received universally positive reviews from the UK motoring media and has also received numerous awards. As of November 2022, as it enters the last months of its production life before being replaced, the XC90 still ranks as one of the best cars in its class according to our Expert Rating index, alongside the Land Rover Discovery and just ahead of the Audi Q7 and BMW X5.

The XC90 has been particularly praised for its styling, comfort and safety technology, with the main criticisms relating to reliability concerns on early models. In fact, in September 2020 Which? magazine declared the XC90 to be “the UK’s most unreliable car” due to the number of faults reported on cars more than three years old.

As of August 2023, traditional petrol and diesel models are no longer available to purchase new from the manufacturer (though they are available on the used market) – customers can choose between petrol mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. The Volvo XC90 holds an Expert Rating of 77%, based on 42 reviews published by the UK motoring media.

The XC90 will ultimately be replaced by an all-electric model called the Volvo EX90, which was unveiled in late 2022 but won’t go on sale in the UK until 2024.

More Volvo ratings, reviews, news and features

XC90 highlights

High-quality tech-laden interior
Clean exterior styling
Comfortable long-distance cruiser
Spacious cabin and boot space

XC90 lowlights

Expensive, base price and up
Fiddly infotainment
Alternatives are better off-roaders
Heavy weight felt through the handling

Key specifications

Body style: Large SUV
Engines: mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid
Price: From £62,140 on-road

Launched: Spring 2015
Last updated: Summer 2019
Replacement due: Winter 2023/24 (to be called EX90)

Image gallery

Media reviews

Reviews, road test and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

The Car Expert+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“If you want a big SUV that is elegantly handsome, supremely comfortable and able to handle any job with effortless ease, the Volvo XC90 is the best in town.”
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“The plug-in hybrid powertrain of the XC90 T8 Twin Engine is effective, and will be very tempting to company car buyers.”
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Auto Express+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“Tech and style updates have kept Volvo’s luxurious seven-seat SUV at the forefront of its field.”
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Model reviewed: XC90 T8 Recharge (2023)
Score: 8 / 10
“Time is ticking for the XC90, but it’s still a top choice thanks to Volvo’s latest updates.”
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Model reviewed: B5
Score: 8 / 10
Verdict 4 “The new B5 diesel picks up right where the D5 left off. It cements its place as our powertrain of choice in the still-superb Volvo XC90; only marginally more expensive than before, the tech brings welcome fuel economy boons and should still occupy a space on your shopping list if you’re after a large premium SUV.”
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Auto Trader+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 is a stylish, understated large SUV that’s beautifully built, has space for seven and is packed with clever technology. It’s good value for money compared with its key rivals, and comes very well equipped. A fabulous all-rounder that’s highly recommended.”
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Model reviewed: T8 plug-in hybrid
“The diesel-engined Volvo XC90 will suit more people, but for a certain group of drivers – and company car drivers in particular – the low CO2 emissions and consequently low tax liabilities will make this smooth and refined SUV a really attractive proposition.”
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Autocar+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“A very impressive all-rounder with its own distinctive appeal”
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Model reviewed: B5 R-Design AWD
Score: 8 / 10
“The mild-hybrid system is so deftly integrated that you could be forgiven for thinking progress was being made entirely by the 2.0-litre diesel engine. “
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Business Car+

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel (mild hybrid) automatic B5 Inscription Pro
Score: 8 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 feels exceedingly aristocratic inside. Almost every component you look at or touch – including the satin chrome air-vents and sparkling gear-shifter, starter twist-device and drive mode controller – are manufactured from premium quality materials.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid T8 Momentum
Score: 8 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 T8 offers no performance or practicality compromises, while undercutting several PHEV rivals and offering huge BIK savings over only slightly cheaper diesels. Economy started at around 75mpg with a full battery and fell to 35mpg after the battery’s charge depleted.”
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Car+

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol-electric plug-in hybrid automatic T8 Recharge
Score: 8 / 10
“It might be the elder statesman of this sector but the Volvo XC90 still delivers in being devastatingly fast and handsome, and nowhere near as audacious and flashy as its European rivals. It might be on the cusp of replacement, but it feels like a cut-price Range Rover – and that is praise indeed.” (Tim Pollard)
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Model reviewed: B5 diesel
Score: 8 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 is a hugely practical, handsome, and cleverly engineered luxury SUV that isn’t a Range Rover – and doesn’t come with the same Range Rover image. Not as keen to drive as a RR Sport, not as flash as a BMW X5 – whether they’re good traits is up to you.” (Murray Scullion)
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Model reviewed: plug-in hybrid T8 Twin Engine
Score: 8 / 10
“The T8’s potential for both lunging bouts of acceleration and silent electric running is hugely attractive. Much like the car itself.”
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Car Keys+

Model reviewed: T8 plug-in hybrid
Score: 8 / 10
“There are few more impressive new cars on sale than the Volvo XC90 T8. Its ability to combine comfort with a superb interior, stunning design and low running costs makes it a seriously appealing large SUV, and if you want seven seats from a plug-in hybrid SUV, it’s your only choice.”
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Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic B5
Score: 9 / 10
“The 2019 update may be a very subtle refresh, but it only shows just how excellent the Volvo XC90 was when it debuted four years ago, as it’s a car that remains right near the top of the large premium SUV class.”
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Carbuyer+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8.8 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 looks smart, is very safe and it’s incredibly comfortable and practical.” (Andy Goodwin)
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Model reviewed: Recharge
Score: 8 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 Recharge is stylish, luxurious and desirable but it’s not the most economical large hybrid SUV”
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Model reviewed: T8 plug-in hybrid
Score: 8.4 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 T8 is stylish, luxurious and desirable, but it’s not the most economical large hybrid SUV.”
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Carwow+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 is a smart-looking, spacious and safe SUV with a gorgeous interior, but the third row of seats is cramped and there’s no smooth six-cylinder diesel engine.”
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Company Car Today+

Model reviewed: B5 2.0-litre diesel automatic R-Design
“The excellent Volvo XC90 is now slightly better in efficiency terms on the diesel engine thanks to tech that doesn’t impact upon the driving experience, and residual value improvements mean a lower overall running cost figure.”
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Daily Mail+

Model reviewed: D5 Inscription
Score: 10 / 10
“It’s amazing in every way, with huge power and economy from the dinky two-litre engine, opulent luxury inside and state-of-the art technology. And, of course, it’s one of the safest cars ever made.” (Chris Evans)
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Evo+

Model reviewed: plug-in hybrid T8 Twin Engine
Score: 8 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 could be considered the perfect foil to something sportier – a large, safe, luxurious family vehicle, sharing garage space with something lighter, leaner, more entertaining. The XC90 does large, safe and luxurious like few other cars we’ve driven.”
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Green Car Guide+

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre petrol/electric plug-in hybrid T8 Inscription
Score: 8 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid T8 AWD offers the capability for electric motoring (for up to around 25 miles in the real-world) for up to seven people, as well as all-wheel drive. This makes it one of only a few cars that offer this combination. As well as being big and spacious, the XC90 Recharge is also refined and has a premium feel.” (Paul Clarke)
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Model reviewed: plug-in hybrid T8 Twin Engine
Score: 8 / 10
“If the driving cycle makes it work, then a plug-in petrol-electric hybrid such as the Volvo XC90 is a great solution.”
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Heycar+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“Even though it’s been on sale since 2015, the Volvo XC90 is one of the most desirable SUVs money can buy. It still looks fresh today, while its upmarket interior is spacious enough to carry seven people. Combine that with an electrified engine line-up and the XC90 is very worthy of your consideration.”
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Honest John+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 10 / 10
“It isn’t cheap, but the impressive quality means it doesn’t feel overpriced. For a family buyer who prioritises safety, comfort and luxury there is probably no better SUV on the market.”
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Model reviewed: plug-in hybrid T8 Twin Engine Momentum
“It is a genuine 7-seater and sliding the centre seats forward slightly makes it possible for an average-sized adult to travel 50 miles or so in the rearmost seats. Children and mothers in law can stay there for 300 miles and the only complaints are the ones you’d get from the mother in law anyway.”
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Model reviewed: D5 diesel
“The Volvo XC90 is an incredibly impressive all-rounder and makes a compelling case as the best SUV on the market.”
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Motors.co.uk+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 offers excellent comfort and refinement, with enough room for seven adults. It has a huge boot, and classy design both inside and out. It’s one of the safest car on sale, as well as one of the most accomplished.”
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Parkers+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8.8 / 10
“Bringing safety and practicality for all seven members of the family”
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The Sun+

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic D5 R-Design
“All in all, it’s a fantastic package that’s very difficult to beat. Practical, stylish, all-wheel-drive capability and now with the sort of technology to make Land Rover Discovery owners envious, it’s very hard not fall in love with the Volvo XC90.”
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The Sunday Times+

Model reviewed: plug-in hybrid T8 Twin Engine Inscription
Score: 8 / 10
“This side of a Rolls-Royce Phantom, it’s the nicest interior you’ll find anywhere.”
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Model reviewed: plug-in hybrid XC90 Twin Engine
Score: 8 / 10
“The ultimate way for the middle class to waft to work.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 is very good; so good in fact that it’d be ideal for those who find the current offerings from Land Rover a bit — how can I put this? — pratty.” (Jeremy Clarkson)
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The Telegraph+

Model reviewed: 2.0-litre diesel automatic B5 Inscription
Score: 8 / 10
“If you need one of these big seven-seat SUVs and comfort is your top priority, the Volvo XC90 is the one to have. No, it isn’t as sporty as its rivals, but that’s probably a good thing; what it delivers instead is a tremendous sense of calm and wellbeing. And while this new engine won’t rock your world, its very reasonable fuel consumption just might.”
Read review

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 combines the practicality of the Land Rover Discovery with the running costs of the BMW X5, plus it has a classy interior and puts great emphasis on safety and comfort. Only the wealthy need apply, but it makes a fantastic family car.”
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Top Gear+

Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 9 / 10
“So well-targeted as a big family wagon: lovely to sit in, safe, very versatile and not too costly to own.”
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Model reviewed: B5 diesel
Score: 7 / 10
“Another very well-executed Volvo that teams sensible, just-what-you-need-and-nothing more oily bits with a rich wellbeing when you’re on board.”
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What Car?+

Score: 8 / 10
“The Volvo XC90 is one of the best large SUVs, combining a high-quality, spacious and versatile interior with plenty of kit and good driving manners.”
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Which?+

Model reviewed: Range overview
“Comfortable and loaded with safety technology, the Volvo XC90 is a standout car in the premium SUV class. With seven seats and a large towing capacity, it’s as practical as they come. However, the new-to-2019 mild-hybrid diesel engine feels like a step in the wrong direction because of its poor fuel economy.”
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Model reviewed: T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid
“Hugely capable – but diesel is better”
Read review

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

Overall score: 5 stars
Date tested: September 2015
Read the full Euro NCAP review

Adult protection: 97%
Child protection: 87%
Vulnerable road users: 72%
Safety assist: 100%

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

As of August 2023, the Volvo XC90 has not been lab tested by Green NCAP. If the XC90 is selected for assessment by Green NCAP, we will publish the results here.

Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

Total claims: 180
Average repair cost: £886.58
Last updated: March 2023

Reliability score

All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

The Volvo XC90 has a lower-than-average reliability score, according to exclusive extended warranty data provided by our partners at MotorEasy. This score covers both the current-generation XC90 and the original (pre-2015) version.

The most common reported problem with the XC90 relates to its electrical system, with an average repair bill of more than £500. The other area to look out for is the engine, which unfortunately has highest average repair costs, with a bill of around £1,700.

If you’re looking at a used Volvo XC90, make sure any extended warranty cover you purchase covers all of these potential problem areas.

Running cost rating

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

CO₂ output	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Petrol models	204 g/km	D	197 – 221 g/km	D – D
Diesel models	185 g/km	C	175 – 190 g/km	C – C
Plug-in hybrid models	30 g/km	A	28 – 73 g/km	A – A

Battery range	Average	Score	Variation	Score
Plug-in hybrid models	42 miles	D	29 – 44 miles	D – E

Insurance group	Average	Score	Variation	Score
All models	44	D	37 – 50	C – F

Service and maintenance	Cost	Score
Year 1	£407	C
Year 2	£968	D
Year 3	£1,440	C
Year 4	£1,699	C
Year 5	£2,234	C
Overall	£6,748	C

Given that it’s such a large and heavy vehicle, running costs for the Volvo XC90 are better than you might expect, according to whole-life cost data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by our technical partner, Clear Vehicle Data.

We don’t currently have fuel consumption data, but it will be closely related to CO₂ emission data, which is average for diesel models and below average for petrol models – as you’d expect for a two-tonne, seven-seat SUV. While it’s not great, it’s still better than several similarly sized rivals.

Servicing costs are also pretty reasonable for a car of this price and sophistication, while insurance is in line or better than rivals.

The plug-in hybrid looks fantastic on paper, but this is largely due to ineffective EU/UK government lab tests that don’t propery account for plug-in hybrids. However, with an official battery range of 42 miles, you can do a fair amount of your daily driving on electric power if you are careful with your right foot.