Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs Volvo XC90

The 2025 Volvo XC90 maintained its reputation for timeless elegance with a refresh that subtly modernized its design without losing its classic appeal. The updated "Thor’s Hammer" headlights and the grille's new asymmetrical, woven-like design added a sophisticated touch. The B5 AWD mild hybrid in Denim Blue and the T8 eAWD PHEV in Bright Dusk both showcased Volvo's "Bright" exterior theme, emphasizing chrome trim over fleeting trends. The interior remained comfortable and understated, with updates like a more spacious center console and a standout Orrefors crystal shift knob. The introduction of new interior materials, including the eco-friendly herringbone weave textile, highlighted Volvo's commitment to sustainability and style.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, refreshed four years into its lifecycle, retained its upright stance and large windows but introduced a modern vibe with an illuminated grille inspired by the all-electric Wagoneer S. The Upland trim added utility with front recovery hooks. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer featured a clean design with strong horizontal lines and a 12-inch infotainment screen, complemented by comfortable, adjustable seats. The cabin's premium materials, like Nappa and Palermo leather, and solid metal gearshift dial, contributed to a high-quality feel. The Grand Wagoneer impressed with its fit and finish, offering a luxurious experience for drivers and passengers alike.

The 2025 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all with standard AWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine delivered 247 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 added turbo- and e-supercharging for 295 hp and 310 lb-ft. The T8 PHEV combined a four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and an 18.8-kWh battery, producing 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque, with up to 33 miles of pure-electric range. The XC90's suspension updates, including Frequency Selective Damping technology, enhanced ride comfort and stability.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine, providing 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. Despite a power downgrade from previous models, the standard-output Hurricane engine delivered smooth and effortless power. The upcoming range-extended electric powertrain promised 647 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque, with a total range of over 500 miles. The Grand Wagoneer impressed with its agility and quiet ride, absorbing bumps and offering comfortable seating for long drives.

The 2025 Volvo XC90's redesigned center console improved practicality, relocating the wireless charging pad for better space utilization. First- and second-row USB-C ports were standard, while third-row occupants enjoyed dedicated cupholders and a panoramic roof view. The XC90's third-row space, with 36.3 inches of headroom and 31.9 inches of legroom, was competitive among midsize three-row SUVs, offering a comfortable experience for passengers.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer excelled as a people mover, with three rows providing ample leg and hip room. The optional second-row bench seat allowed seating for up to eight passengers, with a surprisingly spacious third row. Cargo space was 27.9 cubic feet, expandable to 42.6 cubic feet in the long-wheelbase version. The Grand Wagoneer could tow up to 10,000 pounds and featured three-zone climate controls, heated-and-ventilated front seats, and Quadra-Lift air suspension for off-roading.

The 2025 Volvo XC90's infotainment system featured a larger touchscreen with sharper resolution and a user-friendly interface. The Android-based system included Google Built-In and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The optional 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system offered four distinct listening modes, enhancing the audio experience for audiophiles.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer came equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-inch touchscreen, and a 10.25-inch digital cluster. Higher trims offered a 23-speaker McIntosh sound system and a front passenger interactive display. However, the wireless phone charger underperformed, and the 12-inch screen felt small for the vehicle's size. Adjustable pedals were no longer available for 2026.

The 2025 Volvo XC90, though untested for 2025, had a strong safety reputation, with the 2024 model earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA. Standard ADAS features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping aid operated smoothly, though the XC90 lacked a hands-free highway-driving system.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer included safety features like lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors. The surround-view camera system was highly recommended for navigating tight spaces. The Grand Wagoneer received mixed safety ratings, with a four-star rating from the NHTSA and a combination of Good and Marginal scores from the IIHS.