2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid
What’s new
- Lightly refreshed exterior styling
- Revised brakes and suspension for improved comfort and smoothness
- Six-seat option available for Momentum and Inscription models
- Part of the second XC90 generation introduced for 2016
Pros & Cons
- Elegant interior and exterior styling
- Comfortable front seats
- Hybrid powertrain provides strong acceleration and high fuel economy
- Many standard safety technology features
- Third row isn't roomy enough for adults
- Some touchscreen controls can be hard to use
- Voice controls don't recognize natural speech very well
2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid pricing
in Ashburn, VA
2020 Volvo XC90 Review
Step into most any modern luxury car and you'll find a cabin with enough buttons and switches to make an airline pilot feel right at home. In contrast, the 2020 Volvo XC90 offers a simple, elegant interior that exemplifies the minimalist Swedish design ethos. It's a refreshing approach that helps set the XC90 apart from other three-row SUVs.
The unusual cabin design isn't the only thing that differentiates the Volvo XC90. While some rivals offer a range of powerful (but thirsty) V6 and V8 engines, the XC90 is driven exclusively by a four-cylinder engine. Notably, the range-topping T8 powertrain is augmented by a plug-in battery pack. With 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque on tap, this plug-in hybrid offers plenty of thrust and some of the best fuel economy estimates around.
The XC90 isn't perfect, however. The minimalist design means most of the vehicle's functions are accessible in the infotainment screen, and the layout isn't the most intuitive. We also take issue with the half-baked voice controls that fail to recognize points of interest. Technology missteps aside, the XC90 is one of the better choices in the segment. This year's improvements to the suspension and the T8 hybrid's brake pedal make recommending the Volvo XC90 easier than ever.
Our verdict
7.8 / 10How does it drive?
8.0But the biggest surprise is its braking. Volvo drastically improved the 2020 model's regenerative braking system — the previous version's braking was so jerky it made the XC90 a chore to drive. The SUV has done a complete 180, and braking pressure and response are now exceptional.
How comfortable is it?
8.0Ride quality is likewise very good. The optional four-corner air suspension smooths out rough cracks and bumps in the road, and little road and wind noise is allowed inside the cabin. The XC90 delivers a supremely quiet and luxurious experience. The dual-zone automatic climate control reacts quickly and doesn't need much adjustment once you've set a temperature.
How’s the interior?
7.5The rest of the cabin gets high marks for its easy step-in height and excellent driver's seat position. There's plenty of space up front and enough room for adults in the second row. The third row should be reserved for children. We also like the clear outward view made possible by an upright cabin that allows a full range of vision. The large windshield and short front overhangs help too.
How’s the tech?
8.0Safety tech is a strong point for the XC90. The adaptive cruise control, in particular, is one of the best at transitioning between accelerating and braking as traffic ebbs and flows ahead. It's smooth and easy to control, and it works down to a full stop. Emergency alerts are helpful rather than panic-inducing, and subtle steering inputs are helpful on a vehicle this size to prevent lane departures.
How’s the storage?
7.0When it comes to installing child safety seats, the optional second-row captain's chairs have easily accessible car-seat anchor points between the cushions. The dual third-row seats, however, have no anchor points for hooking in car seats. And only the passenger-side seat has an overhead tether point. Families expecting to fill their XC90 with a pack of little ones, or moving them to the back when the grandparents come to town, may be disappointed.
How economical is it?
9.0We routinely squeezed 20 miles of all-electric driving from our test vehicle. Our test XC90, fully charged at the start, logged 30.0 mpg on our 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route. Using a Level 2 charger, you can recharge the XC90 T8's battery in about 2.5 hours.
Is it a good value?
8.0That makes the price of the XC90 appealing too. The XC90 T8 has a starting price of around $68,000. That's kind of a lot, but considering its complicated yet effective powertrain and loads of standard safety equipment, we're reluctant to hold the cost against it. Loading up with options pushed our tester to $86,000, but each package is priced sensibly and you can pick and choose what fits best. In warranty coverage, Volvo is as good as or better than competitors too.
Wildcard
8.0Which XC90 does Edmunds recommend?
2020 Volvo XC90 models
The 2020 Volvo XC90 is a luxury SUV with two seating configurations and three trim levels: Momentum, R-Design and Inscription. Three engine choices of increasing power are offered for most trim levels: T5, T6 and T8 eAWD Plug-in Hybrid. The T5 is available in either a front- or all-wheel-drive configuration, while the other drivetrains come with all-wheel drive. Seating for seven is standard, though the T6 and T8 powertrains in Momentum or Inscription trims can have a six-seat configuration, with second-row captain's chairs.
The base Momentum comes with 19-inch wheels, LED lighting, a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, a power tailgate, rear parking sensors, keyless entry and ignition, premium vinyl upholstery, four-zone automatic climate control, heated washer nozzles, power front seats, driver-seat memory settings, 40/20/40-split second-row seats (with individual slide and recline functions), a 50/50-split third-row seat, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Technology features include Pilot Assist driving aids (includes adaptive cruise control and lane centering assist), blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist, an oncoming-traffic lane mitigation system, a 9-inch central touchscreen, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker sound system with satellite radio and two USB ports.
The T5 uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine (250 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque) and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Either front- or all-wheel drive is available, and opting for the latter adds heated front seats.
The T6 upgrades to a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (316 hp, 295 lb-ft) and all-wheel drive. This powertrain adds heated front seats, navigation and leather upholstery to the Momentum trim level.
The T8 eAWD Plug-in Hybrid uses the same engine as the T6 but adds an 87-hp electric motor and battery. Total output is 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. A 240-volt Level 2 charger can fill the battery in about 2.5 hours, providing 18 miles of pure electric driving. The T8 comes with an 11-speaker audio system and a tire repair kit in lieu of a temporary spare and tools.
The R-Design trim level is largely a sporty appearance package, adding 20-inch wheels, and different exterior and interior design elements. It also offers front parking sensors, paddle shifters, ambient lighting, upgraded sport seats (with power thigh support), premium leather upholstery, a Harman Kardon premium sound system, navigation and rear window shades.
The Inscription is available on the T6 and the T8. It's similar to the R-Design but features its own wheel, interior and exterior trim designs. It reverts to the Momentum's seats but adds power cushion extension, side support and ventilation for the front seats, along with upgraded leather upholstery all around.
Most options are grouped into packages. The Advanced package — available on all trims — adds adaptive headlights, headlight washers, a top-view parking system, front parking sensors, and a head-up display. An automated parking assist function is optional in conjunction with this package. The Inscription-only Luxury package furnishes a heated steering wheel, front seat massage, heated rear seats, a simulated suede headliner, and leather grab handles and sun visors.
Individual option highlights depend on trim level and include an adaptive air suspension (with adaptive dampers), a heated steering wheel, blended wool upholstery, a built-in second-row child booster seat, a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system, and 20-, 21- or 22-inch wheels.
Sponsored cars related to the XC90
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Volvo XC90.
Trending topics in reviews
- appearance
- comfort
- interior
- seats
- safety
- acceleration
- reliability & manufacturing quality
- cup holders
- transmission
Most helpful consumer reviews
We bought the XC90 T8 6 Seat Inscription. So much has changed since our 2013 XC90 was manufactured. Compared to the previous interior, Volvo has truly stepped up the design and you now feel like you’re in a true luxury car. The seats are very comfortable, the leather is supple and the inlays and trim are elegant. The shift knob is made of Swedish Crystal which is an elegant touch. The exterior styling is, in my opinion, at the top of the competitors...not to rounded off and not too boxy. The grill has been refreshed slightly and looks elegant without being too gaudy like some other manufacturers. Pure electric mode gives me a range of over 20 miles which is perfect for trips to the store and back or to drop off the kids at school. Compared to solely electric cars, acceleration is sluggish in pure electric mode. Put it in hybrid mode and it is remarkably quick. The primary reason I bought this car was to keep my family safe. Google the independent crash tests by IIHS and compare to the BMW or Audi and you can see for yourself the design of the XC90 is safer. Volvo also has a marketing video touting the engineering that went into making this the safest SUV in the road. I’ve owned Audi’s, BMW’s and Lexus vehicles and this is, hands down, the best car I’ve owned. It perfectly balances styling, eco-driving, and comfort without making a sacrifice for safety. The only negative I will mention is the passenger cup holders in the six seat configuration seem like an afterthought and will likely be broken by my kids...but that should not stop anyone from seriously considering the 2020 XC90.
It is the quiet ride, it is the smooth braking, and it is fast
Features & Specs
| T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating 2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $73,800 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 6 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 400 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| T8 Momentum Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating 2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $67,500 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 6 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 400 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| T8 R-Design Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD 2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $72,700 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 400 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD 2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $73,300 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 400 hp @ 6000 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite XC90 safety features:
- Volvo On Call
- Notifies emergency services in the case of an accident or stolen vehicle and allows for remote door locking and unlocking.
- 360-Degree Surround-View Camera
- Displays a 360-degree (aka bird's-eye) view of the car, showing obstacles around the entire car, not just those behind it.
- Lane Keeping Aid
- Small steering inputs respond when the vehicle senses that it is drifting out of its lane without a turn signal.
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | Not Rated |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | Not Rated |
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Volvo XC90 vs. the competition
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7
Like the XC90, the Audi Q7 is a midsize luxury SUV with lots of safety and tech features and a third row best reserved for kids. Like the XC90, we recommend skipping the base four-cylinder engine and upgrading to the optional engine (in this case, a supercharged V6) for the extra passing authority on the highway. There's no clear winner here, though we prefer the Audi's infotainment interface.
Volvo XC90 vs. Volvo XC60
If you don't need the XC90's third row of seats, you can save quite a bit of money by going with the smaller XC60 instead. It still has plenty of cargo and passenger room, and powertrain and equipment levels are quite similar to the XC90. Interior design and materials are shared between the two, so you don't necessarily get a less luxurious SUV by going with the more affordable option.
Volvo XC90 vs. Acura MDX
The Acura MDX doesn't offer as many choices as the XC90, and the Acura's cabin design isn't as elegant. However, its standard V6 packs more power than the XC90's T5 engine while getting nearly identical fuel estimates. The MDX's third row is slightly more adult-friendly too. But we like the Volvo's infotainment system a little more than the MDX's confusing and slow two-screen setup.
FAQ
Is the Volvo XC90 a good car?
What's new in the 2020 Volvo XC90?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Volvo XC90:
- Lightly refreshed exterior styling
- Revised brakes and suspension for improved comfort and smoothness
- Six-seat option available for Momentum and Inscription models
- Part of the second XC90 generation introduced for 2016
Is the Volvo XC90 reliable?
Is the 2020 Volvo XC90 a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2020 Volvo XC90?
The least-expensive 2020 Volvo XC90 is the 2020 Volvo XC90 T8 Momentum Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $67,000.
Other versions include:
- T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $73,800
- T8 Momentum Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $67,500
- T8 R-Design Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $72,700
- T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $73,300
- T8 Momentum Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $67,000
What are the different models of Volvo XC90?
More about the 2020 Volvo XC90
2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid Overview
The 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid is offered in the following styles: T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A), T8 Momentum Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A), T8 R-Design Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A), T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A), and T8 Momentum Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A).
What do people think of the 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2020 XC90 Hybrid 4.2 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 XC90 Hybrid.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 XC90 Hybrid featuring deep dives into trim levels including T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid, T8 Momentum Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid, T8 R-Design Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid here.Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid?
2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A)
The 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $74,795. The average price paid for a new 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) is trending $8,200 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $8,200 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $66,595.
The average savings for the 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) is 11% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 9 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD w/6 Passenger Seating (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger gas/electric hybrid 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrids are available in my area?
2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid Listings and Inventory
There are currently 37 new 2020 [object Object] XC90 Hybrids listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $73,300 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $5,916 on a new, used or CPO 2020 [object Object] XC90 Hybrid available from a dealership near you.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 [object Object] XC90 Hybrid for sale near you.
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid and all available trim types: T8 R-Design Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid, T8 Inscription Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid, T8 Momentum Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid, etc. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2020 Volvo XC90 Hybrid?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Volvo lease specials