2022 Volvo XC90 review

Color options

Exterior colors:

• Bright Silver

• Crystal White

• Denim Blue

• Ice White

• Onyx Black

• Savile Gray

• Thunder Gray

Interior colors:

• Blonde

• Charcoal

Interior details

The 2022 Volvo XC90 features a standard seven-passenger layout with the inclusion of a third row. A six-passenger configuration is also available, which removes the middle second-row seat. Leatherette upholstery, four-zone automatic climate control, and power-adjustable front seats are standard, while Inscription and higher trims add ventilated front seats with extended thigh support. The premium R-Design trim also boasts suede upholstery and black interior accents, and all 2022 XC90 models come equipped with a panoramic moonroof. In addition, cargo capacity is generous, with 15.8 cu-ft behind the third row, 41.8 cu-ft with the third row folded, and 85.7 cu-ft with all rows folded.

Child seat details

The 2022 Volvo XC90 seven-seat configuration can fit three car seats in the second row with two full sets of LATCH lower anchors and three tether anchors. This includes LATCH car seats, infant car seats, rear-facing convertible car seats, forward-facing convertible car seats, and booster car seats. The third row of the seven-seat 2022 Volvo XC90 does not have LATCH or tether anchors, making it better suited for children in backless booster seats. Six-seat versions of the 2022 XC90, on the other hand, have one tether anchor in the third row.

Performance

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offers three versions (T5, T6, and T8), and all powertrain options include an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base 2022 XC90 T5 uses a 250-hp turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine with standard FWD (AWD is optional) and can cover zero to 60 mph in an estimated 7.5 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). 

Stepping up to the T6 includes standard AWD and a 316-hp turbocharged and supercharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine that can fly from zero to 60 mph in approximately 6.1 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). A Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid (known as the T8 Recharge) is available for the 2022 model year and pairs the turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. Fuel economy with the 2022 Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid is impressive, achieving an EPA-estimated 66 combined MPGe (electric)/26 combined MPG (gas).

Year comparison

2003-2014 Volvo XC90 (first generation)

The Volvo XC90 was introduced in 2003 as a luxury SUV with five- or seven-passenger seating, and moved to a standard seven-passenger configuration in 2010. 2013 models used a 3.2L V6 engine, and Volvo updated the exterior with revised styling, including LED daytime running lights and taillights.

2015-present Volvo XC90 (second generation)

The seven-passenger Volvo XC90 was redesigned for its second generation with a new look, revised body structure, and fuel-sipping powertrain options, including a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine and a plug-in hybrid version. 

The 2017 model gained updates to its driver-assistance and infotainment systems, and an ultra-luxe Excellence trim joined the lineup. A year later, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability came standard. 

The 2019 XC90 was introduced with heated seats and four-zone climate control on base AWD models, while R-Design and Inscription models received a Harman Kardon stereo. In 2020, a six-seater configuration became available, and Volvo revised the SUV's braking and suspension systems for comfort and smoothness. 

The 2022 Volvo XC90 gained a standard navigation system, and its packages were revised to include a wider assortment of features.