2025 Volvo V90 B6 Cross Country Review: A Sophisticated Blend of Rugged Versatility & Luxury

The 2025 Volvo V90 B6 Cross Country represents a very modern take on an old-school idea: combining practicality with premium style and a touch of adventure. For those of you who appreciate the refined comfort of a luxury wagon but also need a vehicle that can handle a dirt road or a snowy driveway, the V90 B6 Cross Country might just be the answer. This car isn’t about screaming performance.  It’s about quietly delivering a balanced, refined driving experience and perhaps even take you off the beaten path when the occasion calls for it.

Volvo has a reputation for safety and understated elegance, and with the V90 B6 Cross Country, the Swedish automaker has pushed that ethos even further. The 2025 model offers a fairly sophisticated exterior design, a tech-packed interior, and enough practicality to please both the urban commuter and the weekend adventurer.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes the 2025 V90 B6 Cross Country tick, how it stacks up against its competitors, and where it might leave some enthusiasts wishing for a little extra punch.

Under the Hood: Power Meets Efficiency

The V90 B6 Cross Country isn’t built for drag races, but it delivers a satisfying blend of performance and efficiency. Here’s what you need to know about its powertrain:

• Engine: 2.0L B6 mild hybrid turbocharged inline-4
• Horsepower: Approximately 316 hp
• Torque: Roughly 295 lb-ft
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Standard all-wheel drive
• Fuel Economy: Around 23 mpg combined

This engine setup is designed to provide smooth acceleration and respectable fuel economy, making it perfect for long road trips, daily commuting, or even a spontaneous weekend escape to a nearby state park. The mild hybrid system not only helps with fuel efficiency but also adds a little extra oomph when needed.

What’s Special About the V90 B6 Cross Country?

Volvo has managed to take a model that many might dismiss as just a “wagon” and elevate it into something truly desirable for those who value both luxury and functionality.

1. Design and Build Quality

The exterior design features a streamlined yet robust profile. The front fascia is modern and aggressive, with sleek LED headlights and a bold grille that hints at its off-road capability. The body sits on a slightly raised suspension, providing extra ground clearance without sacrificing the low, planted look that Volvo fans have come to love.

2. Versatility

This isn’t a car that’s content to just cruise on highways. With its all-wheel drive, adaptable suspension system, and rugged underpinnings, the V90 B6 Cross Country can handle uneven terrain, rough weather, and unexpected detours with ease. It’s essentially the perfect marriage of urban refinement and off-road readiness.

3. Interior Comfort and Technology

Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that feels like a blend of modern Scandinavian design and premium luxury. High-quality materials, intuitive controls, and a suite of advanced safety and infotainment features make every drive a pleasure. Features include:

• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with crisp graphics
• Infotainment system with an 11.6-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Premium sound system that delivers a concert-like experience on long journeys
• Heated and ventilated seats available in higher trims, ensuring comfort no matter the weather
• Available panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light

Volvo has paid careful attention to the cabin’s ergonomics and layout, ensuring that both the driver and passengers feel pampered, whether you’re navigating city streets or venturing off the beaten path.

Trim Levels & Available Options

Volvo keeps the V90 Cross Country lineup relatively straightforward, with a couple of trim levels designed to cater to different needs without overwhelming buyers with choices.

2025 Volvo V90 B6 Cross Country Trims:

Momentum

• • The base trim offers a solid mix of standard features.
  • Standard Features Include:
    • 2.0L B6 mild hybrid engine
    • 8-speed automatic transmission
    • All-wheel drive
    • 12.3-inch digital cluster and 11.6-inch infotainment screen
    • Cloth or synthetic leather seating surfaces
  • Ideal For: Buyers who want premium style and functionality without a high price tag.

Inscription

• • An upgraded trim that leans further into luxury.
  • Adds:
    • Genuine leather upholstery
    • Heated and ventilated front seats
    • Enhanced ambient lighting
    • Upgraded sound system (Bowers & Wilkins option available)
  • Ideal For: Those who crave a more refined, upscale interior.

R-Design

• • A sportier version of the V90 Cross Country.
  • Unique Features Include:
    • Sport-tuned suspension for sharper handling
    • Exclusive exterior accents and more aggressive styling cues
    • Special badging and interior trim accents
  • Ideal For: Enthusiasts who want a little extra flair and performance without sacrificing the core versatility of the model.

Interesting Options Available:

• Panoramic Sunroof – Lets in extra light and makes the cabin feel more expansive.
• Advanced Driver-Assistance Package – Includes additional sensors and features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
• Custom Color Schemes – Unique exterior paint options that allow you to stand out from the crowd.
• Upgraded Sound System – An optional Bowers & Wilkins package that transforms your drive into a mobile concert hall.
• Heated Rear Seats – Ensures that even backseat passengers are treated to a warm, comfortable ride during winter.

Competitors: Who’s In the Running?

The 2025 Volvo V90 B6 Cross Country doesn’t exist in a vacuum. There are a few other vehicles that target a similar niche, combining practicality with a touch of luxury and off-road capability.

1. Audi A4 Allroad

• Engine: 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder
• Drive: Quattro all-wheel drive
• Pros: More refined interior, excellent handling, and a well-established reputation.
• Cons: Offers less cargo space and a less adventurous ride compared to the V90 Cross Country.
• Ideal For: Buyers who prioritize German engineering and a balanced ride.

2. Subaru Outback Wilderness

• Engine: 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder or a 2.5L naturally aspirated option
• Drive: Standard all-wheel drive
• Pros: Impressive off-road capability, rugged design, and a loyal following.
• Cons: Interior quality and refinement fall short compared to Volvo’s offerings.
• Ideal For: Off-road enthusiasts who need a vehicle that can truly handle rough terrain.

3. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon (All-Terrain)

• Engine: Varies by market; often a turbocharged inline-four or V6
• Drive: All-wheel drive
• Pros: Luxurious interior, advanced technology, and strong brand prestige.
• Cons: Higher price point and lower fuel efficiency.
• Ideal For: Buyers who want a premium experience with a bit of utility.

4. BMW 3 Series Touring (where available)

• Engine: Turbocharged inline-four with mild hybrid options
• Drive: Rear-wheel drive or optional AWD
• Pros: Sporty driving dynamics, high-quality interior, and excellent technology.
• Cons: Limited off-road capability and a smaller cargo area.
• Ideal For: Those seeking a dynamic driving experience in a wagon format.

The V90 B6 Cross Country stands out with its blend of luxury, fuel efficiency, and mild off-road capability, making it an attractive option for families or individuals who want versatility without sacrificing style.

What Could Be Improved?

The 2025 Volvo V90 B6 Cross Country is an impressive vehicle, yet there are a few areas where I’d like to see improvements:

• Engine Power: While 316 horsepower is respectable, a more potent engine option would further elevate the driving experience, especially for those who want a bit more thrill on the highway.
• Infotainment System: The current system is functional, but it lacks some of the intuitive finesse found in rival German models. A larger, more responsive screen with enhanced connectivity would be a welcome upgrade.
• Customization Options: Although there are a few unique options available, I’d love to see a wider range of personalized choices, particularly in terms of interior color schemes and trim materials. This would allow buyers to truly make their V90 their own.
• Third-Row Seating: While the V90 Cross Country is primarily a two-row wagon, a small, optional third row might appeal to families needing extra seating for short trips, similar to what some competitors offer in crossover variants.

Overall, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise strong package. The V90 B6 Cross Country still manages to combine the practicality of a wagon with the elegance and capability of a luxury SUV.

A Worthy Contender for the Modern Adventurer

The 2025 Volvo V90 B6 Cross Country is a compelling blend of luxury, efficiency, and versatility. It caters to buyers who demand both refinement and a sense of adventure from their daily driver. With a solid mild-hybrid powertrain, upscale interiors, and enough off-road prowess to handle a detour to the mountains, it stands out in a segment that’s increasingly dominated by crossovers.

It offers a unique alternative for those who want a vehicle that’s not just practical, but also an expression of style and sophistication. Whether you’re navigating city streets or taking a spontaneous road trip off the beaten path, the V90 B6 Cross Country provides a balanced, premium experience.

For those who appreciate vehicles that combine real-world utility with luxury flair, this Volvo is a strong contender. It may not have the aggressive performance of a sports sedan or the ruggedness of a full-blown off-roader, but it strikes an impressive balance between daily practicality and upscale adventure.

What’s your take on the 2025 Volvo V90 B6 Cross Country? Does it offer the versatility and refinement you look for in a vehicle, or do you wish it packed a bit more power and tech finesse? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!