2025.5 Volvo XC90 Review: The Thinking Person’s Luxury SUV

Volvo has been doing things differently for a while now. While the rest of the luxury SUV world chases after big horsepower, massive grilles (looking at you BMW), and unnecessary touchscreen real estate, Volvo takes a more understated, Scandinavian approach. The 2025.5 Volvo XC90 sticks to that formula, proving once again that luxury doesn’t have to be flashy to be good.

Despite its age (the current-gen has been around since 2016), the XC90 remains a strong contender in the three-row luxury SUV segment. Volvo has given it a welcome mid-year refresh for 2025.5, tweaking a few things to keep it relevant as it inches closer to its eventual electric successor.

Does it still make sense in a world where BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz keep pushing new tech and bigger engines? Let’s break it all down.

What’s New for 2025.5?

The 2025.5 model doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but Volvo has made a few updates to keep it fresh:

• More standard features across all trims – Volvo continues its “give people what they actually want” approach.
• Upgraded infotainment system – Faster, better Google integration, and improved responsiveness.
• Slight exterior tweaks – A sharper grille and new wheel designs.
• More efficient powertrains – Mild-hybrid systems refined for slightly better fuel economy.

Volvo isn’t chasing radical changes, but that’s kind of the point. The XC90 still looks great, drives well, and feels more timeless than trendy.

Performance: Smooth, Safe, and Just Enough Power

Volvo doesn’t throw V8s or twin-turbo madness under the hood. Instead, these Swedes focus on efficiency, refinement, and just enough performance.

Engine & Performance Specs:

• B5 (Base Engine) – 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with mild hybrid assist
  • 247 hp / 258 lb-ft torque
  • Fuel Economy: 22 city / 28 highway MPG
• B6 (More Power, Still Efficient) – 2.0L turbo & supercharged four-cylinder with mild hybrid assist
  • 295 hp / 310 lb-ft torque
  • Fuel Economy: 20 city / 26 highway MPG
• T8 Recharge (Plug-in Hybrid) – Turbocharged four-cylinder + electric motor
  • 455 hp / 523 lb-ft torque
  • All-electric range: 32 miles

None of these options turn the XC90 into a track monster, but that’s not the point. Volvo builds quiet, composed luxury SUVs that don’t feel like they’re trying too hard, and all three powertrains fit that mission. The plug-in hybrid T8 Recharge is the obvious pick for those wanting extra power and some electric-only driving, but the B6 is gonna be the sweet spot for most buyers.

Ride quality is exactly what you’d expect from Volvo…comfortable, stable, and never harsh. The steering is light yet precise, making this big SUV remarkably easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Interior: Minimalist Luxury That Feels Timeless

Enter the XC90, and it’s clear Volvo isn’t trying to impress you with cheap gimmicks. There’s no massive pillar-to-pillar screen, no gaudy piano black trim, and no over-the-top lighting effects. Instead, you get a calm, clean, and elegant Scandinavian design that looks and feels like it belongs in a high-end furniture showroom.

Interior Features:

• Google-based infotainment system – Built-in Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store apps.
• 9.0-inch vertical touchscreen – Smaller than competitors but still highly functional.
• 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster – Crisp graphics with intuitive controls.
• Available wool-blend upholstery – A unique, eco-friendly alternative to leather.
• Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system – One of the best audio experiences in the segment.
• Standard panoramic sunroof – Makes the cabin feel even more airy.

Seating is comfortable in all three rows, though the third row is best suited for kids or pretty short adults. Cargo space is solid, offering 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with everything folded down.

Trims: Which XC90 Is Right for You?

The 2025.5 Volvo XC90 comes in three trims, each with different levels of luxury and tech:

1. Core – The “entry-level” model (though still well-equipped)

   • 19-inch wheels
   • Google-based infotainment system
   • Leatherette upholstery
   • Standard Pilot Assist (semi-autonomous driving)

2. Plus – The best value pick

   • Leather seating surfaces
   • 360-degree camera
   • Adaptive headlights
   • Ventilated front seats

3. Ultimate – For those who want all the goodies

   • Nappa leather
   • Bowers & Wilkins audio system
   • Massaging front seats
   • Heated rear seats

The Plus trim is the sweet spot for most buyers, offering the best mix of luxury, tech, and value.

Competitors: What Other SUVs Should You Consider?

The three-row luxury SUV space is packed with solid choices. Here’s how the XC90 compares to its biggest rivals:

BMW X5

• More performance-focused with stronger engine options.
• Tech-heavy interior, but can feel overcomplicated.
• Not as spacious in the third row.

Audi Q7

• Sportier ride with sharper handling.
• Interior tech is impressive, but infotainment can be frustrating.
• Smaller cargo space than XC90.

Mercedes-Benz GLE

• More luxurious interior with top-tier materials.
• Air suspension available for an ultra-smooth ride.
• Higher starting price, and options add up fast.

Lexus RX 500h

• Hybrid powertrain is efficient, but less powerful.
• Not as spacious as the XC90.
• Lexus reliability and resale value make it appealing.

The XC90 stands out by offering a balanced mix of luxury, safety, and a refreshingly simple user experience.

What Could Be Better?

Even great SUVs have room for improvement. Here are a few areas where the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 could step up its game:

• Infotainment system could be bigger – The 9.0-inch screen feels small next to BMW and Mercedes.
• No fully electric option yet – The plug-in hybrid is great, but an all-electric XC90 would be even better.
• Aging platform – While still competitive, it’s been almost a decade since this generation launched.

None of these are deal breakers, but they’re worth considering if you want the latest and greatest tech.

Final Verdict: Is the XC90 Still Worth It in 2025?

The 2025.5 Volvo XC90 remains one of the best three-row luxury SUVs on the market. It offers a timeless design, fantastic safety features, and a smooth, composed ride without trying too hard to impress. Volvo has refined it just enough to keep it competitive, though a full redesign is probably around the corner.

For buyers who want a luxury SUV that doesn’t feel like it’s shouting for attention, the XC90 is still a smart choice.

What do you think? Would you pick the XC90 over a BMW X5, Audi Q7 or something else? Drop your thoughts below and we won’t judge your car preferences… much.