
2025 Volvo XC90
In the competitive world of midsized luxury crossovers, the Volvo XC90 continues to shine as one of the segment’s most compelling options. Offered with two distinct powertrains, the nameplate appeals to a broad spectrum of drivers (there’s also a plug-in hybrid, the XC90 Recharge, which we cover in a separate overview). The XC90’s allure is heightened by its Scandinavian style, premium materials, and array of upscale features, including an advanced Google built-in infotainment system. Beyond its fine aesthetics, the XC90 boasts excellent driving dynamics, good fuel efficiency, and up to 85.7 cubic feet of cargo space, solidifying its reputation as a practical yet luxurious daily driver. For the 2025 model year, Volvo added 20-inch wheels for the base-model Core and renamed the Ultimate trim to Ultra.
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Trims, Powertrain, and Performance
The 2025 XC90 is presented in three trim packages: Core, Plus, and Ultra. Volvo’s B5 mild-hybrid powerplant makes 247 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque in each trim. It uses an eight-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive is standard. Those seeking additional power can opt for the B6 mild-hybrid option to get 295 hp and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. According to the officially estimated EPA fuel-economy ratings, the B5 powertrain achieves a commendable 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the more powerful B6 returns 20 city/26 highway. With either powerplant, the XC90 has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
Amenities by Trim
The Core is generously appointed with upscale features such as leatherette upholstery, heated power-adjustable front seats with driver’s position memory, a tailored steering wheel and shift knob, four-zone automatic climate control, a 12-inch digital gauge cluster, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, and ambient interior lighting. On the exterior, it has a panoramic glass roof, roof rails, rain-sensing windshield wipers, remote keyless entry, power-retractable and auto-dimming side mirrors, and fog lights. The optional Climate Package will enhance this entry-level trim with a heated steering wheel, heated outboard rear seats, and headlamp washers.
The Plus trim adds the contents of the Climate Package, as well as genuine leather upholstery, proximity keyless entry, expanded ambient interior lighting, wood interior trim, and a second-row middle seat with an integrated booster cushion. The top-of-the-line Ultra goes all in on luxury, adding Nappa leather upholstery, ventilated front seats with power-adjustable side bolsters, a driver’s seat with power cushion extension, a front passenger’s seat with position memory, a head-up display, premium dashboard and door panel tailoring, a crystal gear selector by Orrefors, and rear door sunshades. The Ultra also qualifies for the Lounge Package, which includes an elegant Nubuck headliner and massaging front seats, and an adaptive air suspension. A digital rearview mirror is available across the board.
Advanced Safety Features
Every 2025 XC90 trim is equipped with an impressive suite of active driving aids, including blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, reverse collision warning, adaptive cruise control with Pilot Assist, lane keeping assist with oncoming lane mitigation, road sign information, slippery road alert, hill descent control, hill start assist, and driver attention monitoring. The Plus and Ultra are bolstered by a surround-view camera and side parking sensors.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The XC90’s standard infotainment system features a 9-inch touchscreen with Google built-in, offering a 4-year trial of Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play Store. Along with that, it receives Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM satellite radio, HD Radio, a 10-speaker sound system, and Bluetooth for hands-free phone and audio streaming. The Plus is eligible for a 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with an air-ventilated subwoofer, which is standard in the Ultra. True audiophiles will appreciate that the Ultra can be upgraded with a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup.