The 2025.5 Volvo XC90 PHEV arrives as a well-timed refresh to a mannequin that’s been in its second era since 2015 (we wrote about it right here) bringing some updates to maintain it aggressive within the evolving luxurious SUV panorama. With a revised entrance fascia, up to date lighting parts, and an enhanced plug-in hybrid system that delivers smoother energy supply, Volvo has sharpened its flagship SUV with out dropping the core identification that’s made it a favourite for practically a decade. Inside, the XC90 continues to impress with Scandinavian minimalism, now paired with upgraded supplies and an much more intuitive Google-based infotainment suite.
On this overview, I’ll cowl its efficiency, options, and security specs that will help you resolve if it’s best for you. Learn on to see if this hybrid SUV lives as much as your expectations.
Key Takeaways
The 2025.5 XC90 begins at $87,550, sporting a T8 AWD plug-in hybrid setup that pushes out a formidable 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque.
On battery energy alone, this SUV can journey as much as 53 kilometers, because of an 18.8 kWh pack, and provides you 5 versatile drive modes for numerous highway wants.
You may tow as a lot as 5,000 kilos.
Inside you’ll discover an 11.2-inch touchscreen working Google Constructed-In tech, and folding the seats flat opens as much as 85.7 cubic toes for cargo—lots spacious for gear and journey wants.
Security earns high marks with a 5-star NHTSA ranking and the IIHS “High Security Decide+” honor, plus customary driver-assist instruments like computerized emergency braking and lane-keeping help.
What’s New for the 2025. 5 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely
I just lately had the chance to overview the brand new 2025.5 Volvo XC90 for every week, and the headline is unquestionably the brand new Extremely trim—now the highest mannequin within the lineup. This premium model replaces the earlier Final trim and kicks off pricing at $95,400.
Powering the XC90 is the dependable T8 AWD drivetrain, pairing a gasoline engine with an electrical motor, delivering satisfying general efficiency.
At its core sits an 18.8 kWh lithium-ion battery, providing you with as much as 53 kilometers of electric-only driving—excellent for brief commutes or fast errands round city. You’ll discover 5 distinct drive modes to match no matter highway you’re tackling: Hybrid for typical each day drives, Pure for absolutely electrical cruising, Energy for an additional kick, Off-road for rougher routes, and Fixed AWD each time roads get slick or tough.
The XC90 Extremely doesn’t simply elevate the bar for plug-in hybrids—it utterly redefines what luxurious SUV homeowners ought to count on.
2025.5 Volvo XC90 Canadian Pricing and Trims
In Canada, the 2025.5 XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely begins at $87,550 for the bottom mannequin, with three trim choices that add luxurious options like Google built-in tech and premium leather-based seats – take a look at our full value breakdown to search out which model matches your funds and wishes.
Out there Trim Ranges
Volvo’s XC90 Plug-In Hybrid is available in three clear-cut trims: Core, Plus, and Extremely. I just lately drove the premium Extremely model, priced from $95,400 and it undoubtedly delivers the luxurious really feel.
For budget-friendly patrons, the Core mannequin begins at $87,550—a neater entry into Volvo’s hybrid lineup. Sitting comfortably between them is the Plus trim, ranging from $91,400, with further consolation options past the bottom.
These costs don’t embody $2,770 for Freight & PDI, Dealership Fees of $695, $100 AC tax, and $26 tire tax. And naturally we will overlook the dreaded gross sales tax.
Every stage provides its personal layer of luxurious and tech. The Extremely trim impressed me with its built-in Google infotainment system and high-quality cabin finishes. Used XC90 T8 fashions share many similarities however miss out on the refined particulars discovered within the newest variations.
Volvo designed these trims thoughtfully, every step-up including extra consolation and tech, whereas retaining the identical plug-in hybrid engine customary for each mannequin.
Our overview 2025.5 Volvo XC90 Extremely had a price ticket of $104,055 earlier than tax. The value consists of choices just like the Safety Bundle ($855), Lounge Bundle ($1,700), Bower & Wilkins audio system ($3,750), and Energetic Air suspension ($2,350). The value all embody Freight & PDI and the opposite charges talked about above.
Associated: 2023 Volvo XC90 T8 Evaluation
Engine, Transmission, and Efficiency
Whereas the outside of the XC90 sees some modifications, below the hood issues keep the identical. The 2025.5 Volvo XC90 Plug-in hybrid is supplied with a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine and an electrical motor. The gasoline engine produces 312 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, and the electrical motor produces 143 at 5,900 rpm. The mixed output is 455 horsepower. The gasoline engine produces 295 pound-feet of torque between 3,000 – 5,400 rpm, whereas the electrical motor produces 228 pound-feet between 0 – 3,280 rpm, for a mixed output of 523 lb.-ft. Energy is distributed to all 4 wheels by way of an 8-speed Geartronic computerized transmission. This mixture units this plug-in hybrid SUV aside by way of efficiency; the XC90 T8 can dash to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, which is a time you’d count on from the common sports activities automotive.
Hybrid Powertrain
I’m genuinely amazed by every thing Volvo has included within the up to date XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely for 2025.5. Its T8 powertrain blends fuel and electrical energy, pushing out a formidable quantity of mixed energy from such a small engine. A decade or so in the past, some of these energy figures have been related to unique automobiles.
These efficiency figures simply surpass the usual B5 mannequin, which generates solely 247 horsepower from its smaller 2.0-liter turbo engine. Volvo additionally outfitted this XC90 with an 18.8 kWh lithium-ion battery, letting the electrical motor work easily alongside its fuel counterpart for improved fuel mileage.
Volvo has crafted the transition from hybrid to electrical mode to be silky clean—with out tough gear modifications or awkward pauses from the automated transmission. Few luxurious SUVs ship a lot sheer energy whereas nonetheless providing such spectacular gas effectivity.
Towing and Payload Capability
This Volvo doesn’t simply velocity up shortly—it delivers critical energy in towing functionality, too. The T8 mannequin can simply handles as much as a stable 5,000 kilos (2,268 kg).
That’s equal to a number of larger SUVs, even surpassing many plug-in hybrids round as we speak. You may even select an electric-folding tow hitch that’s easy to make use of—simply press a button contained in the cargo house, no must crawl beneath your car.
Gas Financial system and Vary
The XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely delivers a formidable 53 kilometers of pure electrical vary and as much as 3.8 Le/100 km mixed, making it one of the crucial fuel-efficient luxurious SUVs I’ve examined.
Actual-World MPG
Once I picked up the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely, the battery was absolutely depleted (the earlier journalist didn’t discover it essential to cost it), so I needed to drive it like an everyday hybrid. The 40 kilometers I drove it, the onboard laptop confirmed 9.0 L/100 km in mixed metropolis/freeway driving. That is virtually spot on the claimed mixed quantity quantity, the claimed consumption numbers are9.1/8.6/8.9 L/100 km in metropolis/freeway/mixed driving.
After the primary day of hybrid driving, I used to be capable of cost the batteries absolutely and the 53 kilometers vary was greater than sufficient for my each day commute of 30 to 40 kilometers. Not like among the different giant plug-in hybrid SUVs, the XC90 T8 solely used the battery energy (if charged) even at freeway speeds, except you actually punched the accelerator or modified the driving mode to essentially the most highly effective one.
Battery Life and Charging Choices
The XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely delivers spectacular energy from its battery system. Throughout testing, the SUV simply matched the promised 53-kilometer all-electric vary, even in blended driving.
That mileage locations this car forward of many luxurious SUVs on the market. Charging the battery is a clean course of—because of an onboard 6.4-kW charger—which connects with out difficulty at dwelling or public stations.
A Degree 2 charger fills the battery in roughly 5 hours, preferrred in the event you desire in a single day charging at dwelling.
One factor I did discover is the rise in battery dimension, from final 12 months’s 14.9 kWh unit to the brand new 18.8 kWh, nevertheless the all electrical driving vary is identical as final 12 months’s mannequin. The place does the additional battery capability go? Until, the 2024 mannequin 12 months confirmed the usable capability and the 2025.5 reveals gross capability?
Now, let’s leap inside and see precisely why the XC90’s inside stands aside from different luxurious SUVs.
2025.5 Volvo XC90 Exterior Styling
The 2025.5 Volvo XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid presents a thoughtfully refreshed exterior that harmoniously blends traditional Scandinavian design with up to date enhancements.
Entrance-Finish Refinements
On the entrance, the XC90 T8 showcases a redesigned grill that includes diagonal slats that converge into a particular “V” form on the Volvo emblem, changing the earlier vertical design. Flanking the grill are slimmer “Thor’s Hammer” LED matrix headlights, which now prolong additional into the entrance fascia, providing a extra fashionable and cohesive look. Complementing these modifications are a sculpted hood and recontoured entrance bumper and fenders, contributing to a extra dynamic and assertive stance .
Aspect Profile and Wheel Designs
Whereas the XC90’s aspect profile maintains its elegant silhouette, new wheel designs starting from 20 to 22 inches inject a contemporary sense of dynamism. These wheels, obtainable in numerous kinds, improve the SUV’s presence and align with its up to date aesthetic .
Rear Enhancements
On the rear, the taillights have been subtly darkened, and the bumper has been revised to de-emphasize the tailpipes, leading to a cleaner and extra streamlined look .
Associated: 2022 Volvo XC90 Evaluation
Inside, Consolation, and Cargo
The XC90’s cabin blends Swedish luxurious with sensible design, that includes plush leather-based seats, actual wooden trim, and loads of room for seven adults plus their gear.
Cabin Design and Supplies
I actually recognize how Volvo designed the XC90 inside utilizing premium supplies that give off a comfy, welcoming vibe. Stepping inside, you’re met with clean traces that circulation naturally from the sprint to every door, making a luxurious really feel with each element.
My consideration instantly went to the beige inside, particularly the trim produced from recycled textiles—fashionable but eco-conscious without delay. Volvo additionally thoughtfully up to date the middle console space, including extra sensible storage choices for on a regular basis use.
Each element inside this plug-in hybrid mannequin clearly units it aside from rivals just like the BMW X5 or Mercedes GLE. Inside storage areas appear fastidiously deliberate, by no means feeling like an afterthought. Tender-touch surfaces cowl practically each space inside straightforward attain, enhancing consolation all through the cabin.
The modifications on the inside are minor however they do give the XC90 a little bit of a contemporary look. The dashboard has barely been tweaked, with totally different design HVAC vents, the dashboard trim is a bit totally different with extra items, and a brand new 11.3″ infotainment system. The middle console has been barely modified, with a special armrest and cup holders.
Passenger Area and Seating
The XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely has two versatile seating selections, excellent for your loved ones dimension. The six-seat format gives comfy captain’s chairs, whereas the seven-seat choice simply matches larger households.
The Extremely trim pampers passengers—with gentle, ventilated Nappa leather-based seats that really feel superb throughout lengthy rides. Actually, my again appreciates Volvo’s considerate addition! Of us within the entrance and center rows get loads of house, however the third row has just a few drawbacks.
Accessing the final row takes a little bit of effort, because the second-row seats should fold ahead—sadly, it’s not precisely a clean motion. Taller adults may battle sitting again there on prolonged drives.
That third row fits youngsters higher or fast errands round city. Massive households filling all seats often may discover this limiting. Fortunately, the second-row seats slide ahead or backward, serving to to stability legroom with the car absolutely occupied.
Cargo Capability
I actually recognize how roomy the XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely is inside. With each rear rows folded flat, there’s a formidable 1,959 cubic liters of cargo house—preferrred for shifting furnishings or becoming numerous tenting gear.
Even after flipping up the second row of seats, you continue to get a spacious 975 cubic liters for suitcases and equipment. And if each seat is occupied, there’s nonetheless a handy 300 cubic liters within the again—sufficient in your purchasing baggage or a few carry-on suitcases.
Volvo thoughtfully included some intelligent hidden storage beneath the cargo ground, too, useful for charging cords or instruments you don’t need sitting out.
Loading heavy stuff is way simpler because of the XC90’s huge rear opening and a very flat cargo ground. And people power-folding seats are an actual lifesaver—you possibly can fold down the again rows with a single button, as a substitute of struggling awkwardly with handbook levers.
Now let’s take a look at some sensible tech Volvo put into this fashionable Swedish SUV.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The XC90’s new Google Constructed-In system makes smartphone pairing a breeze whereas providing you with entry to maps, music, and extra with easy voice instructions. I discovered the 11.2-inch touchscreen crisp and fast to reply, although I nonetheless miss the times when knobs have been customary in luxurious automobiles.
Touchscreen Interface and Options
I’m actually impressed by the brand new 11.2-inch touchscreen in Volvo’s XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely. The show comes built-in with Google Constructed-In expertise, making each day driving duties less complicated.
What I recognize most is having Google Maps prepared to make use of, without having further subscriptions or charges. There’s additionally a useful split-view choice, letting me view maps on one half whereas checking audio settings on the opposite—the proper setup for multitasking.
Voice instructions reply shortly and clearly, which implies I can regulate cabin temperature and airflow, all with out lifting a finger from the wheel. Utilizing this touchscreen actually feels extra like dealing with a well-known pill slightly than a type of typical automotive shows—it responds immediately to faucets, swipes, and gestures.
A number of controls that after wanted bodily buttons now seem neatly on the digital interface itself, leaving the dashboard uncluttered, smooth, and modern-looking.
Smartphone Integration
The Volvo XC90 options a big, 11.2-inch touchscreen with customary Apple CarPlay, offering fast, easy entry to your cellphone. Throughout my check drives, the system linked shortly—however required plugging in with a cable.
Most luxurious SUVs as we speak supply wi-fi integration, however the XC90 misses out on this handy characteristic. Even so, the wired connection carried out completely high quality, dealing with music, maps, and messages with none noticeable slowdown.
Calls sounded crisp and clear by way of the automotive audio system, and incoming texts appeared neatly on the display with out inflicting an excessive amount of distraction. For busy households who rely on their telephones on the highway, Volvo will get the stability proper—straightforward, sensible, and protected.
Security and Driver-Help Options
Volvo packs the XC90 with security tech that makes me really feel like I’ve obtained a guardian angel driving shotgun. The usual crash prevention system works with the automated emergency braking to cease accidents earlier than they occur.
Commonplace Security Options
The XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely is loaded with standout security options excellent for busy roads. The usual automated emergency braking spots individuals and cyclists—nice for crowded metropolis streets.
Lane-departure warnings and lane-keeping help additionally come customary, making freeway drives straightforward and stress-free. Adaptive cruise management easily handles stop-and-go visitors, retaining a protected distance from automobiles forward.
These superior security features earned the XC90 the very best doable security scores from the Insurance coverage Institute for Freeway Security. A transparent rear view digital camera simplifies tough parking spots, and blind-spot monitoring flags automobiles hiding past my mirrors.
The collision warning system alerts me early about doable crashes, giving me further time to behave. Total, the superior driver-assistance options add important security layers, making the XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely a dependable, comfy SUV selection.
Superior Driver-Help Applied sciences
The XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely comes full of sensible options to maintain me protected on the highway. Volvo outfitted this SUV with a ahead collision warning system that alerts me if it senses a doable crash forward.
Lane-departure warning vibrates gently to let me know if I’m drifting throughout traces with out signaling—then lane-keep help nudges me easily again into place. Adaptive cruise management maintains a snug distance from the car forward, even in heavy stop-and-go visitors.
Collectively, these security applied sciences assist cease accidents earlier than they’ll even occur.
Volvo reveals its dedication to security in each inch of the XC90’s considerate design. The Nationwide Freeway Visitors Security Administration gave this SUV excellent scores, thanks largely to its sensible security programs.
On my current check drives, the visitors signal recognition picked up velocity restrict indicators I’d ignored, whereas the cross-traffic alert stepped in to forestall me from reversing right into a passing car.
Automated emergency braking stays prepared always, ready to halt the SUV if it senses an unavoidable collision. These considerate options assist make driving calmer, safer, and extra pleasant—whether or not commuting each day in metropolis visitors or taking a weekend highway journey.
NHTSA and IIHS Security Scores
Completely satisfied to share some excellent news—the 2025.5 XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely simply aced its security assessments. Volvo’s SUV acquired a full five-star rating from NHTSA, assembly strict federal crash requirements.
And the IIHS gave the 2024 model their high award, “High Security Decide+”, the very best recognition doable. IIHS praised its reasonable overlap entrance check outcomes, displaying the XC90 retains front-seat passengers safer in frequent crashes.
My analysis backs up Volvo’s robust fame for protected, reliable automobiles, ranking the XC90 a formidable 9.3 out of 10. Households can chill out understanding this SUV consists of useful customary particulars—like headlight washers to spice up visibility on wet or snowy drives.
Plus, regenerative braking helps protect battery life and boosts braking energy as you carry your foot off the accelerator. Robust security scores assist Volvo stand out clearly from opponents such because the Acura MDX and Porsche Cayenne.
Comparability with Opponents
I in contrast the XC90 towards its important rivals to see the way it actually measures up. The Lexus RX gives higher gas financial system however lacks the Volvo’s third-row choice, whereas BMW’s X5 and Mercedes GLE carry sportier drives however price hundreds extra.
2025 Lexus RX Plug-In Hybrid
The 2025 Lexus RX Plug-In Hybrid holds its floor towards rivals just like the Volvo XC90. Lexus equips this upscale SUV with a robust hybrid setup, balancing stable efficiency and spectacular gas financial savings.
Inside, the RX greets you with gentle leather-based seats and tech-forward options that rival—and even surpass—what you’d discover inside Volvo’s XC90.
On clean metropolis streets or winding nation roads, the Lexus RX handles curves easily, quieting exterior noises effortlessly. Though its battery-only driving vary doesn’t fairly match the XC90’s, the RX earns higher mileage general in hybrid driving mode.
2025 BMW X5 Hybrid
I just lately checked out the 2025 BMW X5 Hybrid, evaluating it carefully with the Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid. BMW’s hybrid SUV emerges as a stable competitor in luxurious SUVs—combining spectacular horsepower with glorious fuel mileage.
BMW took a special method from Volvo’s 523 horsepower engine, emphasizing stability between velocity and effectivity as a substitute. Inside, the X5 Hybrid feels simply as luxurious because the XC90, however its cabin styling units it aside—one thing that sure patrons may actually take pleasure in.
Cargo room additionally compares carefully, providing sufficient house for weekend getaways or transporting your sports activities gear. Security options stand out in each SUVs, however BMW’s infotainment responded faster throughout my testing than Volvo’s Google-based system did.
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Plug-In Hybrid
The BMW X5 Hybrid brings collectively German luxurious with robust efficiency, however the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Plug-In Hybrid gives one thing a bit totally different. Mercedes approaches upscale, eco-friendly driving by pairing a gasoline engine with electrical motors.
This mixture gives highly effective efficiency with out the environmental worries. Inside, the GLE PHEV’s fashionable cabin is loaded with superior tech, making each outing really feel particular.
Contained in the cabin, Mercedes includes a user-friendly touchscreen suitable with each Apple and Android units. Its security package deal consists of computerized emergency braking and lane-keep help, serving to to maintain passengers protected.
Though Volvo’s XC90 is cheaper, the GLE delivers comparable luxurious and gas financial system for a better value. The GLE Plug-In hybrid gives an extended electric-only drive—as much as 77 kilometers, considerably greater than the XC90 T8.
Conclusion
The 2025.5 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely units itself aside from different luxurious SUVs, because of its highly effective but eco-conscious design. Throughout my check drive, the high-quality cabin supplies and easy-to-use Google built-in infotainment system genuinely impressed me.
It’s a Swedish magnificence that provides stable electrical driving vary together with the premium consolation you count on from Volvo. In contrast with opponents such because the hybrid Lexus RX and BMW X5, this XC90 hits the candy spot—consolation, reliable security, and glorious gas financial system.
For buyers who need luxurious with out harming the surroundings, this plug-in SUV checks all of the packing containers.
2025.5 Volvo XC90 T8 Picture Gallery
Folks Additionally Ask
What new options does the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely supply?
The refreshed 2025.5 XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Extremely arrives with Google built-in expertise for improved connectivity and consumer expertise. It additionally gives an enhanced battery vary in comparison with older variations, plus up to date and trendy rear lighting. Drivers will discover a smoother, extra responsive accelerator pedal than earlier than, making acceleration smoother and extra easy.
How does the Volvo XC90 T8 examine to different Volvo plug-in hybrid fashions?
In contrast with Volvo’s smaller plug-in hybrids—XC60, XC40, and C40—the XC90 T8 gives more room inside for passengers and cargo. Its general larger dimension provides it a extra stable driving expertise in comparison with the smaller V60 plug-in hybrid. Nonetheless, it shares an analogous hybrid efficiency setup with these different fashions.
Is shopping for a used Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid choice?
A used XC90 plug-in is usually a sensible buy if it comes with full upkeep information. Older variations have decrease electric-only miles, however they’re much more reasonably priced than newer fashions. Make sure to double-check battery situation and efficiency earlier than deciding on a used XC90 plug-in hybrid.
What’s the anticipated value vary for the 2025.5 mannequin?
The beginning value for the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid will most likely be round $72,000 for the essential trim. If you happen to’re serious about further options and high-level trims, costs can simply climb above $85,000.
How has the automotive business responded to the brand new XC90 design?
Many automotive consultants and car-buying guides have given optimistic suggestions on the up to date XC90’s hybrid efficiency and refreshed exterior design. Critiques regularly spotlight its spectacular mixture of luxurious appointments and fuel-saving expertise. Trade analysts see the mannequin as a robust luxurious SUV competitor, providing lasting attraction and practicality.
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