2025 Volvo XC90 T8 review: Plug-in luxury with smooth power and smart style
- The XC90 is one of Volvo’s core vehicles.
- Prices start at $57,400.
I'm sharing my impressions of vehicles after living with them for a few days, or as a make or model evolves. The car this week is the 2025 Volvo XC90 AWD T8.
What is it?
It's a plug-in hybrid version of Volvo’s six- or seven-seat three-row luxury SUV. Volvo calls it a 2025.5 model, but U.S. regulations, which govern model years, don’t recognize half-model years. (Sorry, Mustang fans; there wasn’t a 1964.5 either.)
How much?
I tested an $80,700 XC90 T8 AWD Ultra. Prices start at $57,400. Prices exclude $1,295 destination charge and import tariffs.
How’s it selling?
The XC90 is one of Volvo’s core vehicles. It sold 39,492 in 2024 and 39,920 in 2023. The updated 2025 went on sale in December. Volvo has sold 16.744 XC90s so far in 2025. U.S. tariffs may affect XC90 prices and availability.
What I liked most the first time I drove the XC90
Typical Volvo style and safety. Quiet ride, smooth power.
2025 Volvo XC90 pricing, selected models
- B5 Core: $57,400
- B6 Core: $62,300
- T8 Core: $71,900
- XC90 T8 AWD Ultra: $80,700
Source: Edmunds. All prices exclude $1,295 destination charge and import tariffs.
What does it compete with?
It competes with the Acura MDX hybrid, Cadillac Vistiq EV, Hyundai Ioniq 9, Kia EV9, Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid and Tesla X EV.
Why I want it
Room, comfort and sustainability. Volvo says owners worldwide average 48% of their miles driven on electric power. The 2.0L turbocharged engine and electric motor deliver 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. The interior is roomy, attractive and safe ― Volvo hallmarks. The interior is quiet at highway speeds and the air suspension delivers a smooth ride and commendable handling for a big heavy vehicle.
What needs work
- There’s no change to the updated XC90’s range on electric power. The XC90’s price puts it in competition with new EVs like the Cadillac Vistiq and Hyundai Ioniq 9 — improved range wouldn’t hurt.
- The lack of wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto goes in the same file: It wasn’t a big deal in 2015 but constitutes a significant competitive failing today.
- Minimal exterior changes.
Key features
- Seats six or seven
- 33-mile electric range, 530 miles combined electric and gasoline range
- 11.2-inch infotainment screen
- All-wheel drive
- Attractive, sustainable interior materials
- Google infotainment system
- Bowers & Wilkins audio
- Active noise cancellation
- Configurable 12.3-inch instrument cluster
- Standard panoramic sun roof
Contact Mark Phelan: 313-222-6731 or mmphelan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.