2025.5 Volvo XC90 T8 Review: The Most Sophisticated Method to Transport a Twin Mattress
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The Volvo XC90 has consistently exuded a sense of elegance that sets it apart from its rivals. In its latest iteration, the Swedish manufacturer is introducing a few enhancements to make its three-row SUV even more appealing, even though it has been around for nearly ten years.
The 2025.5 Volvo XC90, (the ".5" is intentional), offers a mild refresh that not only keeps this luxury SUV up-to-date but also improves its comfort, refinement, and efficiency compared to some of its closest competitors. An impressive achievement for Sweden.
**Overview**
Following mechanical updates to the T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain in the XC90 in 2023, which provided increased range and smoother operation, Volvo has also made design and technology adjustments to the gasoline-powered SUV. These subtle changes cumulatively result in meaningful updates.
The grille now features a more intricate and refined design with crisscross lines, the Thor’s Hammer LED daytime running lights have been sharpened for a clearer appearance, and new vertical chrome trim has been added to the lower front bumper. Additionally, fresh wheel designs enhance the visual appeal, and the LED taillights are now darker than before.
Inside, the previous 9.0-inch portrait touchscreen has been upgraded to an 11.2-inch model that appears mounted onto the dashboard rather than seamlessly integrated. The touchscreen interface is similar to that of the electric EX90, featuring built-in Google support, while still being compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Interestingly, although it’s 2025, the infotainment system—both hardware and software—does not support wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, maintaining a wired connection.
The Android Automotive-based software is noticeably more reliable than that of the EX90. Fortunately, a large volume knob remains on the dashboard alongside a manually adjustable steering column, an odd feature for a luxury SUV priced at nearly $90,000.
The XC90’s T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 310 horsepower with a 145-hp electric motor on the rear axle for a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. An 18.8-kWh lithium-ion battery pack powers the electric motor, while the gas engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
This powertrain, upgraded in 2023, continues to deliver a smooth driving experience with ample power. Although the turbo-four engine sounds like what it is, increased sound insulation from the 2025.5 refresh reduces engine and wind noise while driving. The power and smoothness rival that of a Range Rover, but the noise from the gas engine can seem out of place.
Steering is light and does not require constant adjustments on the highway, but feedback during cornering is lacking. However, the optional $1,800 adaptive air suspension effectively smooths out bumps and rough Midwest roads.
The front seats are among the most comfortable and supportive available, despite not resembling oversized cushions. The second row is suitable for road trips, though the captain's chairs lack the shapeliness of the front seats. The third row is primarily for children, but adults can fit for short trips. Notably, a twin mattress, box spring, and frame can fit in the back of the XC90 with both the second and third rows folded down, allowing for comfortable sleeping arrangements inside the vehicle.
**Range, Charging, and Efficiency**
The XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid has an EPA-rated electric-only range of 32 miles before the gas engine activates, and it achieves a 27-mpg combined rating. I was able to drive the XC90 on electric power alone for 32 miles over several days, with the gas engine only kicking in during a weekend road trip. During the 430-mile highway trip, I maintained speeds over 70 mph and still achieved an average of 33.0 mpg according to the onboard trip computer, an impressive result for a three-row SUV of its size and power.
According to Volvo, charging the 18.8-kWh battery pack on a Level 2, 240-volt charger takes about five hours, a claim that aligns with my own experience. Charging on a Level 1, 120-volt outlet required an overnight wait.
**Conclusion**
With Audi lacking a hybrid Q7, the BMW X5 plug-in hybrid being less aesthetically pleasing and only offering two rows, and the Mercedes-Benz GLE plug-in hybrid having both a smaller third row and optional status, Volvo has managed to keep its decade-old three-row plug-in hybrid SUV not only competitive but also appealing in a market where many alternatives seem to have overlooked this size and powertrain configuration.
The 2025.5 Volvo XC90 T8 meets consumer demands for a usable electric-only range for city driving while providing an efficient gas engine for long trips with the added benefit
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