It’s been a few years since I drove the Volvo XC90, and there are some changes for 2020.
The exterior gets a nip and tuck, but you have to really pay attention to notice the revised front-end styling. The XC90 design still looks fresh and handsome. The top-of-the-line XC90 T8 Inscription model pushes the styling even more, with eight-spoke, 21-inch wheels and special exterior elements that separate it from other Volvo XC90 models.
The inside is pleasantly different from other luxury midsize SUV and crossovers on the market. The Volvo is open and airy, and you quickly notice there aren’t buttons and knobs everywhere. This minimalistic interior means you have to go through the large touchscreen to handle most of the Volvo’s functions.
This is a comfortable road trip ride, with some excellent seats, and the massage feature is inviting. You can now have captain’s chairs in the second row. They cut capacity to six people, but it’s easier to access the third row now. There is no armrest for the aisle with these otherwise comfortable chairs, though; it’s a strange omission.
Usually you have to sacrifice to get the hybrid version, but not with the Volvo XC90 T8. You get an extra 87 hp, thanks to the electric motor. This plug-in XC90 pumps out 400 hp, and your first 18 to 20 miles is on electric power with a full charge (I charged the vehicle in less than 2½ hours plugged into 220v) and you can expect about 27 mpg running on gas.
An improved suspension better smooths out the ride for 2020, with no more unpleasant bumps over rougher road surfaces. Even some light-duty off-roading proves it’s a more forgiving suspension.
Cost: $67,500; as tested $86,790
MPG: 55 mpge; and 27 mpg gas-only. I managed 32.9 mpg on gas in 390 miles of heavy highway driving.
Options: $6,300 Inscription; $2,450 Advanced Package; 3,100 Luxury Package; $645 Metallic paint; $3,200 Bowers & Wilkins premium sound; $1,800 4-corner air suspension; 21-inch 8-multi spoke wheels
Safety: Collision avoidance by City Safety detects vehicles, cyclists, large animals; run-off road protection and run-off road mitigation; lane keeping aid and oncoming lane mitigation; rear park assist camera and rear park sensors; road sign information; blind spot information system with steer assist and cross traffic alert with auto brake; driver assist system with adaptive cruise control and pilot assist
Things to know: The 2020 Volvo XC90 T8 is a luxury three plug-in hybrid that’s big on technology and safety. Audiophiles will want to splurge for the incredible Bowers & Wilkins sound system, but you lose the AM dial.
Pros:
- Plug-in for better mpg and more power thanks to electric motor with 87hp extra
- Luxury refined interior with ultra-comfortable seats built for easy cruising
- Improved handling inspires confidence in all road conditions
Cons:
- An odd transmission that takes two pulls or pushes to engage drive or reverse
- The center touchscreen controls many features and takes a bit of time to master
- Checking the option box can lead to a big price tag
