The Volvo XC90 is a pivotal model in the company's lineup.
So instantly popular was the first XC90, that it remained on sale for 12 straight years. The second version arrived in 2015, and it could enjoy an even longer production run than its predecessor.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the Volvo XC90. We'll look at the different trim levels and how the model's evolved over time.
Volvo XC90 models explained
The soon-to-be-massive luxury SUV segment was just starting in the early 2000s and Volvo wanted a slice of the pie. This resulted in the XC90 in 2002 – a sizeable seven-seater, blending the proportions of an off-roader with the refined on-road manners families wanted.
First-generation XC90s remained on sale with just periodic updates for more than 12 years – a remarkably long run compared to the average new car. This was followed up by the second-generation XC90 in 2015, which heralded a new era and styling direction for Volvo under its new Geely parent company.
The XC90 ended up spearheading a range of Volvo SUVs. This includes the mid-size Volvo XC60 and the more compact Volvo XC40. All three models now have fully electric counterparts in the EX90, EX60 and EX40.
Volvo XC90 rivals include:
Read our full list of Volvo XC90 alternatives
Volvo XC90 trim levels
Current Volvo XC90 trim levels:
- Core – climate control, power-adjustable heated front seats with lumbar support, adaptive cruise control and a full infotainment system
- Plus – adds a 360º parking camera and a crystal gear selector
- Plus Pro – gains larger 21-inch alloy wheels and a Harman Kardon stereo
- Ultra – high-end model with a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, ventilated front seats and Nappa leather upholstery
- Ultra Pro – range-topping car with a Bowers & Wilkins stereo and massaging front seats
Previous Volvo XC90 trim levels:
- Momentum – includes heated leather seats, LED headlights and digital driver's dials
- R-Design – gets sportier styling with a body kit, sports seats and ambient interior lighting
- R-Design Pro – blends more on-board tech with sporty R-Design looks
- Inscription – high-end version with Nappa leather and a crystal gear shifter
- Inscription Pro – range-topper with a Harman Kardon stereo and massaging seats
Volvo XC90 generations
Second generation – 2015-present
- The second-generation XC90 was the first car based on Volvo's new strong and light SPA platform
- Platform – Volvo SPA
- Facelifted in 2019 and 2024
- Likely to have a similarly long production run as its predecessor
- Petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid and plug-in-hybrid engines
First generation – 2002-2015
- This was Volvo's first-ever SUV and was first revealed in the US to see how the public responded
- Platform – Volvo P2
- Facelifted in 2007, 2010 and 2012
- It had a long 12-year production run, plus an extra couple of years on sale in China as the 'XC Classic'
- Petrol and diesel engine options
What's the best Volvo XC90 model?
The latest XC90 has been on sale since 2015, so makes up the majority of choices across the new and used markets. As a result, there's a wide choice across a selection of different budgets, so you should try to get the newest version you can afford.
Among older XC90 stock, you'll find petrol, plug-in-hybrid and diesel engine options, with the latter being a good choice if you cover lots of motorway miles. The diesel versions have since been dropped leaving only petrol and plug-in-hybrid models, though the latter really work best when you can charge at home or at work.
All XC90 cars are well-equipped, so there's no pressing need to select a range-topping car. However, luxuries like plush Nappa leather and a crystal gear selector can be found on high-end XC90s if you prefer the finer things in life.
Shop nearly new and used Volvo XC90 cars for sale, or read our Volvo reviews see what life with these smooth Swedes is like.
