2024 Volvo XC90 vs 2025 Land Rover Defender

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was available in three model series: B5, B6, and Recharge T8. The B5 featured a turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the B6 added a supercharger for enhanced performance. The Recharge T8 was a plug-in hybrid, offering the most power and efficiency, with an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. All models came standard with all-wheel drive (AWD). Volvo offered the XC90 in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trim levels, with prices ranging from $56,000 to $79,600, excluding a $1,195 destination charge. The Recharge T8 test vehicle, in Ultimate trim, featured seven-passenger seating, a Lounge Package with massaging front seats, an active air suspension, a Bowers & Wilkins audio system, and a trailer hitch, with an MSRP of $89,145, including destination. The XC90's exterior was characterized by a subdued and earthy color palette, with various wheel designs up to 21 inches. The interior, though dated, was fitted with rich materials, including wool-blend upholstery or ventilated Nappa leather, an Orrefors crystal shift knob, and natural wood trim.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender presented a rugged and customizable design, with the Defender 110 four-door model being the most balanced in appearance. Base prices ranged from $58,525 for a 90 model to $120,525 for a 130 V8, including a $1,625 destination charge. The new Defender OCTA, available only as a 110, was priced at $153,625, including destination. The Defender 130 test vehicle arrived in X trim, priced at $102,525, featuring the Extended Black Exterior Pack, upgraded interior materials, and comprehensive off-roading technology. The test vehicle swapped standard 22-inch wheels for 20s with Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires and included options like the Towing Pack and Climate Pack, bringing the MSRP to $106,092 with destination. The test model, in Gondwana Stone paint, lacked the new matte paint protection film, and the color clashed with the orange brake calipers and delicate-looking wheels. The interior featured premium Windsor hides with Kvadrat fabric, illuminated door-sill treadplates, and metal pedal covers, maintaining an industrial theme with quality materials.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with the B6 model’s supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The battery and electric motor allowed for 32 miles of electric-only driving, with an average of 27 mpg in hybrid mode. In Power mode, the XC90 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in five seconds. Recharging the battery took about 12 hours with a standard outlet, or less than half that time with a 240-volt outlet. The XC90 offered various driving modes, including Pure, Power, Hybrid, Constant AWD, and Off-Road, with up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance. During testing, the XC90 provided 28 miles of electric range in Pure mode and 24.5 mpg in hybrid mode. The SUV excelled in electric performance for short trips but showed reduced EV performance after 25 miles. The gas engine provided lively acceleration, but the XC90 was more of a luxury SUV than a performance vehicle, with firm ride quality and less-than-ideal handling on challenging roads.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system, producing 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission with Sport and manual shift modes connected to a standard AWD system with a low-range setting for off-roading. The Defender 130 X could tow up to 8,200 pounds and accelerate to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. The adaptive air suspension, hill descent control, and Terrain Response 2 driving modes enhanced off-road capability. The Defender excelled off-road, with 11.4 inches of ground clearance, a 37.5-degree approach angle, and a 28.8-degree departure angle. On pavement, the Defender rode smoothly, absorbing bumps and dips with ease. However, the 20-inch wheels and Pirelli tires limited on-road enthusiasm, and the SUV's weight affected handling on twisty roads. The Defender cruised comfortably on highways but suffered from wind noise due to its boxy shape. The observed fuel economy was 16.2 mpg, below the expected 19 mpg.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 offered a well-equipped interior with power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, wood trim, and a four-zone climate control system. A panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims included features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats with massage, and an integrated booster child seat. The front seats had adjustable lower leg support bolsters, but their design could catch on clothing. The XC90 provided a comfortable driving position with good visibility, though the climate control struggled in hot conditions. The SUV seated seven, with a tight but accommodating third row. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use but expanded to 65.5 cubic feet with it folded and 85.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender 130 offered spacious seating across three rows, with 12-way power-adjustable front seats featuring heating and ventilation. The Defender provided excellent forward visibility, though the square side mirrors seemed undersized. A panoramic sunroof and fixed glass panel over the third row enhanced the open feel. Storage was plentiful in the front but less so in the rear. The second-row captain’s chairs were heated and ventilated, with adjustable armrests. The Defender 130 excelled in third-row accessibility and comfort, with a heated and supportive seat. The side-hinged cargo door was heavy and awkward, with a high load floor. Cargo space was 15.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.7 cubic feet with it folded and 89 cubic feet with all rear seats down.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard, with a 14-speaker Harman Kardon or 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system available. The infotainment system was intuitive, with a stereo volume knob and radio tuning buttons. The XC90 included a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and optional head-up display and surround-view camera.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender came with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, accessed via an 11.4-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and connected services. Pivi Pro had improved response and accuracy, with an intuitive user experience. The Defender featured a head-up display, ClearSight digital rearview mirror, and surround-view camera system. The Meridian premium sound system impressed, and the Towing Pack added a hands-free trailer reverse-steering system.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was synonymous with safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA in all but rollover resistance, where it received four stars. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+ in 2023. However, the XC90's advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were not as innovative as rivals. It included Pilot Assist, which paired adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist, but it struggled with certain road conditions and made a significant error during testing.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender included driver aids like automatic high-beam headlights, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist. The system operated transparently, though it struggled slightly in heavy traffic. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, as the NHTSA and IIHS typically do not test low-volume models.