2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Volvo XC90
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Volvo XC90 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Volvo XC90 scores 8.3 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Volvo XC90 is the recommended choice, offering improvements in performance, cargo capacity, and technology advancements that justify the higher score. Its blend of safety, luxury, and functionality makes it an excellent choice for those looking to invest in a versatile and modern luxury SUV.
Choose the 2021 Volvo XC90 if:
- You appreciate traditional yet sophisticated vehicle design.
- You prioritize seamless ride quality and cabin quietness.
- Energy efficiency combined with sufficient power is crucial for you.
Choose the 2022 Volvo XC90 if:
- You want slightly enhanced performance with better handling characteristics.
- An increased cargo capacity is vital for your family or travel needs.
- Advanced safety and technology features are top priorities in your vehicle choice.
Overview | |
MSRP$49,000 | MSRP$50,900 |
Average price$37,262 | Average price$42,803 |
Listings655 | Listings1054 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.7 out of 10 | Expert reviews8.3 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
|
2021 Volvo XC90 Reviews SummaryVolvo may be known for sensible station wagons, but the XC90 SUV is the Swedish automaker’s de facto flagship. The current generation debuted design features, technology, and powertrains that have since found their way into most other Volvo models. Several years into the current-generation model’s lifecycle, the XC90 is no longer a trendsetter, but remains Volvo’s contender in the competitive midsize luxury SUV segment, with the automaker’s typical emphasis on safety features. The current-generation XC90 launched for the 2016 model year, so most competitors—including the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class—have been updated or redesigned since then. The Cadillac XT6 and Lincoln Aviator didn’t even exist when this generation of XC90 launched. A redesigned version is expected to arrive soon, so changes to the 2021 XC90 are minimal. All 2021 Volvo models are now limited to 112 mph for safety reasons and get Care Key, which lets owners limit the top speed before loaning the car out to a friend or family member. The XC90 also gets a handful of newly standard tech features, and some small cosmetic changes. Volvo offers the XC90 in three trim levels—Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription—with three powertrain options: T5 and T6 gasoline engines, and the T8 plug-in hybrid. Our test car was a range-topping T8 Recharge Inscription, combining the top Inscription trim level with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which has the highest output of the three. | |
2022 Volvo XC90 Reviews SummaryWhat does your average vegan internet mogul drive while waiting for their Tesla to charge? The 2022 Volvo XC90 three-row crossover can slot right in with an available plug-in hybrid variant, available leather-free features, and crunchy memories from the late 20th century. With fuel economy ratings up to 66 MPGe, XC90 owners can hold their eco heads high. | |
No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.0L 250 hp I4 | Engine2.0L 250 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity7 |
Horsepower250 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower250 hp @ 5500 rpm |
MPG City21 | MPG City21 |
MPG Highway30 | MPG Highway30 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.0L 250 hp I4 | Engine Name2.0L 250 hp I4 |
Torque258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm | Torque258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
Horsepower250 hp @ 5500 rpm | Horsepower250 hp @ 5500 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City21 | MPG City21 |
MPG Highway30 | MPG Highway30 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity7 |
Key Features | |
Navigation System | Navigation SystemStandard |
Sunroof/MoonroofStandard | Sunroof/MoonroofStandard |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall5 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space15.8 cu ft | Cargo Space15.8 cu ft |
Curb Weight4374 lbs | Curb Weight4374 lbs |
Height69.9 in | Height69.9 in |
Length195.0 in | Length195.0 in |
Width84.3 in | Width84.2 in |
Wheelbase117.5 in | Wheelbase117.5 in |
Maximum Payload1631 lbs | Maximum Payload1631 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity4000 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity4000 lbs |
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Volvo XC90 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Volvo XC90 scores 8.3 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Volvo XC90 is the recommended choice, offering improvements in performance, cargo capacity, and technology advancements that justify the higher score. Its blend of safety, luxury, and functionality makes it an excellent choice for those looking to invest in a versatile and modern luxury SUV.
Choose the 2021 Volvo XC90 if:
Shop Now- You appreciate traditional yet sophisticated vehicle design.
- You prioritize seamless ride quality and cabin quietness.
- Energy efficiency combined with sufficient power is crucial for you.
Choose the 2022 Volvo XC90 if:
Shop Now- You want slightly enhanced performance with better handling characteristics.
- An increased cargo capacity is vital for your family or travel needs.
- Advanced safety and technology features are top priorities in your vehicle choice.
Overview | ||
MSRP | $49,000 | $50,900 |
Average price | $37,262 | $42,803 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | 4.7 | 5.0 |
Expert reviews | 7.7 out of 10Read full review | 8.3 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | Volvo may be known for sensible station wagons, but the XC90 SUV is the Swedish automaker’s de facto flagship. The current generation debuted design features, technology, and powertrains that have since found their way into most other Volvo models. Several years into the current-generation model’s lifecycle, the XC90 is no longer a trendsetter, but remains Volvo’s contender in the competitive midsize luxury SUV segment, with the automaker’s typical emphasis on safety features. The current-generation XC90 launched for the 2016 model year, so most competitors—including the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class—have been updated or redesigned since then. The Cadillac XT6 and Lincoln Aviator didn’t even exist when this generation of XC90 launched. A redesigned version is expected to arrive soon, so changes to the 2021 XC90 are minimal. All 2021 Volvo models are now limited to 112 mph for safety reasons and get Care Key, which lets owners limit the top speed before loaning the car out to a friend or family member. The XC90 also gets a handful of newly standard tech features, and some small cosmetic changes. Volvo offers the XC90 in three trim levels—Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription—with three powertrain options: T5 and T6 gasoline engines, and the T8 plug-in hybrid. Our test car was a range-topping T8 Recharge Inscription, combining the top Inscription trim level with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which has the highest output of the three. | What does your average vegan internet mogul drive while waiting for their Tesla to charge? The 2022 Volvo XC90 three-row crossover can slot right in with an available plug-in hybrid variant, available leather-free features, and crunchy memories from the late 20th century. With fuel economy ratings up to 66 MPGe, XC90 owners can hold their eco heads high. |
Video | No video found | No video found |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.0L 250 hp I4 | 2.0L 250 hp I4 |
Drive Train | FWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
Horsepower | 250 hp @ 5500 rpm | 250 hp @ 5500 rpm |
MPG City | 21 | 21 |
MPG Highway | 30 | 30 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.0L 250 hp I4 | 2.0L 250 hp I4 |
Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm | 258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm |
Horsepower | 250 hp @ 5500 rpm | 250 hp @ 5500 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 21 | 21 |
MPG Highway | 30 | 30 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Standard | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | Standard |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 15.8 cu ft | 15.8 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4374 lbs | 4374 lbs |
Height | 69.9 in | 69.9 in |
Length | 195.0 in | 195.0 in |
Width | 84.3 in | 84.2 in |
Wheelbase | 117.5 in | 117.5 in |
Maximum Payload | 1631 lbs | 1631 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 4000 lbs | 4000 lbs |
In 2021, the Volvo XC90 transformed perceptions with its sophisticated design that married traditional Volvo aesthetics with modern flair. The 2021 model featured a refined exterior, maintaining the brand's iconic boxy shape, but with softened lines and added chrome elements that elevated its luxury appeal. The signature "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights were not just functional but stylistically integral to the XC90's identity. The varying trim levels, from the luxurious Inscription with optional 21-inch alloy wheels to the sporty R-Design with its new gloss-black grille surround, catered to a range of tastes without compromising the model's upscale presence. Inside, the emphasis on Swedish minimalism was evident, from the natural wood trim to optional Orrefors crystal shifter, which though beautiful, felt somewhat out of sync with the understated luxury of the cabin.
The following year, the 2022 Volvo XC90 maintained the high standards of its predecessor while pushing towards a more dynamic and forward-leaning stance. The exterior displayed a balanced integration of classic and contemporary design elements, characterized by pronounced wheel arches and a sleek roofline that managed to disguise the vehicle's size efficiently. The cabin of the 2022 model continued to reflect what was described as "Scandinavian Modern" interior design, using premium materials like natural wood and metal trim that gave a sense of both luxury and sustainability—the optional "tailored wool blend" seating being a testament to Volvo's eco-friendly commitments. Although the cabin retained its luxurious feel, some found the non-leather options less desirable in extreme climates, suggesting a potential compromise in comfort for sustainability.
The 2021 XC90 offered three engine configurations, all built around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The base T5 turbocharged version offered 250 horsepower, while the T6 added a supercharger to boost output to 316 horsepower. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined these features with an electric motor to deliver a robust 400 horsepower. Despite this power, the vehicle sometimes struggled with responsiveness in electric mode. The 2021 XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to optional air suspension and a quiet cabin, ensuring a luxurious driving experience.
In contrast, the 2022 XC90 advanced its performance with a T8 model that pushed out 455 horsepower, benefiting significantly from an electric motor that enhanced the acceleration without turbo lag. The model boasted improved fuel efficiency and driving dynamics that felt both nimble and controlled for a vehicle of its size. Handling was precise, making the 2022 XC90 not only more powerful but also more enjoyable to drive.
The 2021 XC90 was designed to accommodate families comfortably, offering either six-seat with captain’s chairs or a seven-seat configuration with a bench seat. While space in the third row was snug for adults, the XC90 made up for it with reasonable cargo capacity and optional features like a panoramic moonroof and advanced climate control systems. However, the cargo space was less competitive, with a maximum of 64.1 cubic feet with seats folded.
Moving to the 2022 model, the interior configurations remained largely the same, still prioritizing ease of access to the third row and maintaining a similar seating comfort level. The cargo capacity saw a significant improvement, with up to 85.7 cubic feet of storage space available, representing a substantial increase and making it more competitive against other luxury SUVs in its class. This combined with advanced climate control features provided a blend of functionality and comfort for diverse family needs.
The Sensus infotainment system in the 2021 XC90 was lauded for its user-friendly interface, despite some complaints about text legibility and a lack of analog controls. Connectivity was comprehensive, with standard features including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a built-in WiFi hotspot. The optional 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system was a highlight for audiophiles.
The 2022 model continued with the same system, which had received updates to enhance its responsiveness, although some glitches were reported. The integration of smartphone-like gestures and an intuitive user interface remained strengths. With additional features like the 360-degree camera system and an advanced air cleaner included in the optional Advanced package, the 2022 XC90 aimed to improve both convenience and safety through technology.
By: CarGurus + AI
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