2021 Volvo XC90 review
Volvo XC90 highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Agile handling for a big SUV
- Elegant styling inside and out
Cons
- Some rivals deliver better EPA estimates and performance
- Touchscreen isn't particularly intuitive to use
Mileage (EPA estimate)
18 city, 28 highway, 22 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
Shop with your budget in mind
The 2021 Volvo XC90 is a classy midsize luxury SUV
The 2021 Volvo XC90 three-row SUV is unusual among its competition as it's only offered with a choice of four-cylinder gasoline engines. The T5 base engine is a 250-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged unit, which works elsewhere in Volvo's range but feels a bit overwhelmed by the XC90's size. A better choice is the T6, which adds a supercharger to that 2.0-liter turbo engine, boosting output to 316 hp. If you want more power, you'll have to plug in since the top-flight engine is a hybrid. It mates that T6 engine to an electric motor and battery for a combined 400-hp output. Volvo has changed the name of its plug-in for 2021, simply calling it Recharge. All but the base models are all-wheel drive, and all have an eight-speed automatic.
Every XC90 comes with decent levels of driver aids, while even the entry-level Momentum trim (named Inscription Expression with the Recharge model) is comprehensively equipped. Opt for the R-Design if you want a sportier look and feel with your XC90; if you prefer luxury, choose the Inscription with its high-end features. The cabin is spacious and able to seat up to seven, yet the XC90 is enjoyable to drive thanks to its sharp handling. The 2021 XC90 is well worth considering if you're after a classy, capable family SUV.
All Volvo XC90 years
What is new for the 2021 Volvo XC90?
- XC90 trims have been upgraded with Leatherette & Cloth, Heated Steering Wheel, and Quad Seats as standard equipment this year.
- Power Folding Third Row features are now available as options on select trims.
- The T6 R-Design trim now comes with Leatherette Seats as standard equipment.
2021 Volvo XC90 trims
T5 Momentum:
- 250-hp, 258-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
- Memory Seats
- Power Seats
- Leatherette Seats
- Rear View Camera
- Lane Departure Warning
- Power Mirrors
- Rear Defroster
- Rear Air Conditioning
- View our Volvo XC90 T5 Momentum inventory
T5 R-Design:
- Includes all features available on the T5 Momentum
- Rear Sunshade
- Leatherette & Cloth
- Leather Seats
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- Harman Kardon Sound
- Navigation System
- View our Volvo XC90 T5 R-Design inventory
T6 Momentum:
- Includes all features available on the T5 R-Design
- 316-hp, 295-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
- Turbo/Supercharged Engine
- View our Volvo XC90 T6 Momentum inventory
T6 R-Design:
- Includes all features available on the T6 Momentum
- No significant upgrades found on the T6 R-Design
- View our Volvo XC90 T6 R-Design inventory
T6 Inscription:
- Includes all features available on the T6 R-Design
- Quad Seats
- A/C Seats
- View our Volvo XC90 T6 Inscription inventory
Volvo XC90 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2021 Volvo XC90
1. Luxurious interior
The 2021 XC90 features an interior styled with inspiration from Volvo's heritage. You'll love the plush comfort of the SUV's soft, hand-stitched leather seats. On the Inscription trim, you'll also enjoy heated and ventilated seats. Matte-finish natural wood completes the refined interior of the 2021 Volvo XC90. With such thoughtful touches, you and your passengers will be surrounded by luxurious comfort.
2. Space for your whole crew
Thanks to three rows of seats, you can fit six or seven passengers in the 2021 Volvo XC90. With 12.6 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the third row, you'll have space for all your stuff, too. Fold both rows flat to unlock 65.5 cubic feet of interior cargo space. And you can rest easy knowing that your passengers will be comfortable no matter what row they're sitting in — even the third row offers 31.9 inches of legroom.
3. The latest technology
Keeping up with the latest tech trends is easy with the 2021 Volvo XC90. Even the standard trim features a full suite of driving aids. Automatic parking, a surround-view camera, and wireless charging are just a few of the many modern technology features in this luxury SUV. Plus, an available steering-assist feature can help you navigate tricky situations on the road.
4. Powerful engine options
The 2021 Volvo XC90 is a midsize SUV that's equipped for big tasks. Get the pulling power you seek with a standard turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine that makes 250 hp. With the supercharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine with AWD, you'll get an estimated 5,000 lbs. of towing capacity, when properly equipped.
5. Concert-like sound system
Experience your music in high fidelity in the 2021 Volvo XC90. With Android Auto® and Apple CarPlay™ capability, you can stream from your favorite device. A Harman Kardon® premium sound system is standard on R-Design and Inscription trims of the XC90. Or, you can get that concert-hall feeling with the 1,400-watt, 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system, available on the Inscription trim.
Similar vehicles
If you're interested in the 2021 Volvo XC90, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a luxury SUV that delivers a smooth ride and premium materials in a spacious vehicle. The 2017-2019 GLE is powered by a standard 302-hp V6 (329-hp for 2019) and features optional all-wheel drive. Two twin-turbo V6 engine options are available, with one featuring additional power via an electric motor. AMG performance trims are also available for 2017-2019, with twin turbocharged V6 and V8 engine options.
In 2020, Mercedes updated the GLE for its fourth generation with a new 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engine making 255 horsepower. A 3.0L turbo V6 and a 4.0L turbo V8 also entered the revised lineup, both with a mild hybrid system and 362 hp and 483 hp, respectively.
Standard features on 2017-2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE Class models include:
Premium vinyl upholstery
LED daytime running lights and taillights
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Eight-inch display (12.3-inch touchscreen for 2020+)
The BMW X5 is a powerful luxury midsize SUV with plenty of engine options and excellent handling. Even the base trim for 2017 boasts a turbocharged six-cylinder 3.0L engine, while the highest trim offers a muscular 4.4L V8 engine. The infotainment system for 2017-2021 models is intuitive and easy to use. You and your passengers will also enjoy comfortable seating—perfect for long drives.
Standard features of the 2017-2021 BMW X5 include:
Blind-spot monitor
Cross-traffic alert
Turbocharged engines across all models
If you're looking for a luxurious crossover SUV, the Lexus RX 350 is a great choice. 2020-2022 models offer sharp styling along with all the spaciousness of an SUV. With 100 cu-ft of passenger volume inside, 44.1 inches of legroom in the front seats, and 38 inches of legroom in the rear seats, you and your passengers can stretch out and enjoy the ride. Plus, the 2020-2022 Lexus RX 350 has 18.4 cu-ft of luggage volume behind the rear seats, expanding to a useful 56.4 cu-ft with the rear seats folded.
Standard features on the 2020-2022 Lexus RX 350 include:
Power liftgate
Suite of driver aids
Eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
Shop with your budget in mind
Ratings & reliability
RepairPal gave the Volvo XC90 an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Volvo XC90 17th out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Volvo XC90Volvo XC90 features and specs
T5 R-Design 2WD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- Automated Cruise Control
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Fold-Away Third Row
- Front Seat Heaters
- Harman Kardon Sound
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Leatherette & Cloth
- Memory Seat(s)
- Navigation System
- Overhead Airbags
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Parking Sensors
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Air Conditioning
- Rear Defroster
- Rear Sunshade
- Rear View Camera
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Third Row Seat
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- Automated Parking
- Bowers & Wilkins Audio
- Full Roof Rack
- Head Up Display
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Leather Seats
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Running Boards
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
2.0L
Horsepower
250
Torque (ft-lbs)
258
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
18.8
Wheelbase
117.5"
Overall length
194.9"
Width
79.1"
Height
69.9"
Leg room
F 40.9"/M 37"/R 31.9"
Head room
F 38.9"/M 38.5"/R 36.3"
Front tires
P275/45VR20
Rear tires
P275/45VR20
Seating capacity
7
Max towing capacity
400/4000 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2021 Volvo XC90 FAQ
The 2021 Volvo XC90 is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- T6 Inscription: 18 MPG City and 28 MPG Highway
- T5 R-Design: 21 MPG City and 30 MPG Highway
- T5 Momentum: 21 MPG City and 30 MPG Highway
- T6 Momentum: 18 MPG City and 28 MPG Highway
The Volvo XC90 received a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the Volvo XC90 as 16 out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUV
The 2021 Volvo XC90 has received an average 3.7 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2021 Volvo XC90, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2021 Volvo XC90 Reviews.
The 2021 Volvo XC90 has a maximum towing capacity of between 4000 and 5000 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Here is what's new for the 2021 Volvo XC90:
- Leatherette & Cloth
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Power Folding Third Row
- Cloth Seats
- Leatherette Seats
More about the 2021 Volvo XC90
Color options
Exterior colors:
Birch Light Metallic (Inscription only)
Bright Silver Metallic
Burst Blue Metallic (R-Design only)
Crystal White Pearl
Denim Blue Metallic
Ice White
Onyx Black Metallic
Osmium Grey Metallic
Pebble Grey Metallic (Inscription only)
Pine Grey Metallic (Inscription only)
Thunder Grey Metallic
Interior details
12.5 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear
Seating for six or seven passengers across three rows
12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ capability
USB charge ports and available wireless charging
Genuine crystal gear selector (Inscription trim)
NHTSA Safety Ratings
The 2021 Volvo XC90 received an overall 5/5 rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Find out more about this rating and how NHTSA’s 5-Star Safety Ratings program evaluates the crash protection and rollover safety of new vehicles.
Keep in mind that certain vehicles may have unrepaired safety recalls. Click here to look up a specific vehicle.
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.