The Volvo XC90 is the biggest and most luxurious SUV with a Volvo badge available today. The XC90 was first revealed back in 2002 and the current generation made its debut back in 2015 while the facelift happened for the 2019/2020 model year. This means that the XC90 is nearing the end of its lifeline and is soon going to be replaced with a brand-new model.
The 2023 XC90 is also getting a few notable changes compared to the 2022 model year. The biggest change is Volvo completely abandoning its previous trim levels which have now been replaced with the Volvo XC90 Core, Pro, and Ultimate trim levels. The engine palette remains the same which means a 2.0L 4-cylinder across the range.
However, we are likely going to see a bit more range from the top-spec Recharge model. Other changes include a new Google-based AI voice infotainment system, and over-the-air updates. Besides this, it seems like the XC90 remains more or less the same as the 2022 model year which is no bad thing as the XC90 is a really stylish and incredibly safe SUV.
Reliability is average for the class which means that the XC90 is good, but nothing over the top. Practicality is excellent and the initial price is going to go up compared to the 2022 model year, but not by much.
2023 Volvo XC90 – The Powertrain
As mentioned in the beginning, we are not going to get too many changes with the XC90 powertrain which means that you can still choose between an array of 2.0L 4-cylinder engines, but all are now equipped with mild-hybrid technology. The entry-level 2.0L 4-cylinder offers 247hp while the higher-end 2.0L model offers 295hp.
If you want a PHEV XC90, you can go for the XC90 Recharge which offers 455hp from its combination of an electric motor and 2.0L 4-cylinder. MPG ratings are 22/28MPG for the 247hp model, 20/26MPG for the 295hp model, and 66MPGe for the Recharge PHEV model. All of these come with an 8-speed automatic transmission and AWD.
All in all, some would prefer seeing a 6-cylinder engine with the XC90, but Volvo has shown that you don’t need to have a 6-cylinder engine to make a large SUV feel powerful enough.
2023 Volvo XC90 – Design and Driving
The 2023 Volvo XC90 looks the same as the 2022 model which is no bad thing as the XC90 looks minimalistic, yet really sleek and classy. The front end is smooth while the side profile is a bit boxier. Both the front and the rear headlights look futuristic and are fully LED. The interior is as Swedish as it gets with incredibly comfortable seats, a portrait infotainment screen, and an upright dash.
The driving experience is nothing special as the XC90 drives like most other luxury SUVs do. It is not dynamic by any means which means that the BMW X5 feels a lot more exciting to drive. All in all, it is just a large family SUV that prioritizes comfort, ease of use, and cruising over speed, agility, and handling.
2023 Volvo XC90 – Reliability and Common Issues
J.D. Power awarded the 2022 XC90 with a 70/100 reliability rate which means that the XC90 is average. This means that it can suffer from a wide variety of issues, some of which can cost a decent amount of money to fix. However, this is standard across mostly all luxury SUVs from this segment as these SUVs are packed with technology.
The most common XC90 issues include problems with water leaks, high levels of oil consumption, fuel filler pipe issues, issues with the brakes, and issues with the electrics.
2023 Volvo XC90 – Value and Practicality
The price of a new 2023 XC90 starts at $57,000 for the Core model, $60,000 for the Core Plus, $70,000 for the Ultimate model if equipped with B-series engines. However, if you want the Recharge PHEV, the prices range between $70,000 and $80,000 for the top-spec Recharge Ultimate model.
Practicality is really good as the XC90 offers seven seats, a large trunk space, and lots of space in the two front rows. It is also an easy car to get in and out of while visibility is excellent. It is a good family SUV with many family-friendly features throughout.
FAQ Section
Should I buy the 2023 Volvo XC90?
The 2023 Volvo XC90 represents a slight change compared to the 2022 model year which means that you should be good enough with either the 2022 or the 2023 model. It is true that the 2023 model gets slightly more economical engines, but overall, the 2022 and the 2023 models are the same.
Be that as it may, the Volvo XC90 is a really good SUV throughout as it offers literally all you want from an SUV. As such, if you like Volvo styling and you don’t crave a performance SUV or one with a 6-cylinder engine, the Volvo XC90 is a really good choice.
Is the Volvo XC90 a luxury SUV?
The Volvo XC90 is a true luxury SUV and it rivals the likes of the Audi Q7 as these two are really similar. For one, both are the largest SUVs from both manufacturers, but none is truly a full-size SUV. They come with five-seater configurations as standard, but can also be had with up to seven seats.
There is nothing about the XC90 that isn’t on a true luxury SUV level which is why its price is also firmly in the luxury SUV segment. All in all, it is available with all the necessary features you’d expect from a luxury SUV, but only in a Volvo suit.
When is the next-gen Volvo XC90 coming out?
Volvo has just pulled the covers of the brand-new EX90 which is more or less the electric version of the new XC90. This means that we are likely to see the next generation of the XC90 soon which is sure to share most of its design cues with the new Volvo EX90.
