The 2021 Volvo XC90 benefits from a handsome, sculpted look that goes much deeper than the sheet metal. Nowhere is this more obvious than under the hood, where the goals of improved fuel economy and improved power are seemingly at odds with one another. Power comes from a 2.0L engine that is both supercharged and turbocharged. The result is an almost unbelievable 316 horsepower with fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. All of those numbers are up significantly since 2014, when the XC90 was still powered by a larger, less powerful 6-cylinder engine, showing just how effective Volvo's engineers have been in maximizing both power and fuel economy. All-wheel drive is standard on the Volvo XC90 and an 8-speed automatic is the only transmission choice.
The hybrid powertrain takes the same impressive 2.0L but adds an 82-horsepower electric motor at the rear axle and a crankshaft-mounted generator for a 400-horsepower total, along with 472 foot-pounds of torque. The hybrid battery rides mid-ship to keep its effect on handling minimal. It features an energy-reclaiming braking system like other hybrids and similar to the standard XC90 Drive-E, the SUV comes with automatic engine stop-start.
The XC90 is offered in four trims: Momentum, R-Design, Inscription and
Inscription Expression and all but the Momentum are offered with the plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The base Momentum comes with plenty of luxury features, as is generally expected in this class. Standard items include heated windshield washer nozzles, 4-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power adjustable and heated front seats, power rear headrests, a panoramic power sunroof, a navigation system, a rearview camera and backup sensors, a power tailgate, 19-inch wheels, a lane departure warning system and satellite radio with a 3-month subscription.
The R-Design trim has a sportier personality. Setting it apart are numerous exterior and interior upgrades to add just a little bit of flair to the XC90. Standout features include 20-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust pipes, a unique front grille, LED headlights, aerodynamic upgrades, sport front seats, paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, and aluminum inlays.
The Inscription model includes exterior chrome accents, Nappa leather upholstery, vented front seats, aluminum roof rails, rear sunshades and a dash accented with walnut and leather.
The XC90 wouldn't be a Volvo if it didn't offer world-class, innovative safety systems. In addition to features like lane keep assist and blind spot warning, Volvo's Pilot Assist II driver assistance technologies allow the XC90 to steer and brake autonomously at speeds up to 80 mph, while its City Safety suite provides features like run-off road mitigation and large animal detection.
