MSRP: $87,496 - $90,000
9 /10
Rating
Pros
- Elegant Scandinavian cabin design
- Smooth hybrid powertrain performance
- Comprehensive safety tech standard
Cons
- Minimal 2024 model updates
- Limited fast-charge capability
2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge review with Vyocar
Overview
The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge feels like what a Swedish carmaker would design after hosting a think tank in a minimalist cabin surrounded by snow and silence. It may not shout like a Cayenne or flirt with aggression like the X5, but it speaks with grace—and backs it up with a T8 powertrain that’s both powerful and efficient. With its hybrid and plug-in setup, you get the option to recharge and roll without guilt, which is ideal for families looking for long-distance hauls or just clean commutes. The electric motor works in smooth sync with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering enough horsepower to move this mid-size SUV with confidence.
Inside, the vibe is Scandinavian-inspired with elegant, upscale touches and a modern, Google-based infotainment interface that actually works—unlike the patchy software in some rivals like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or even the high-strung Porsche. Every detail, from the styled wheels to the responsive controls, reflects an attention to user experience that feels more intentional than flashy. The design is clean, with enough panache to feel premium without overwhelming the senses, and the safety tech and driver-assistance features are standard, not upsold. With seven seats across three rows, it fits large families or frequent passengers, and the third-row still manages to be usable—something not all competing models can claim.
Compared to a GLE-class or even the newer Mazda CX-9, the XC90 carves its own identity as a class act. Whether you’re looking to charge at home, glide on gas, or explore the full portfolio of Volvo’s luxury choices, this model feels like the best form of smart SUV thinking—without forgetting the importance of touch, tech, and control in the digital age. For shoppers who admire Germany’s precision but want something a bit more grounded, don’t skip checking out the related Volvo V60 either—especially if you’re less about bulk and more about elegance.
What’s New in 2024?
In 2024, the second generation of this SUV keeps most of its core formula unchanged, which might disappoint those hoping for major changes, but there’s comfort in consistency—especially when the appearance still holds up. A new Dark theme package joins the lineup, adding glossy black trim, chrome accents, and an overall bolder exterior look that gives off a more modern vibe without going overboard. This tweak doesn’t reinvent what was originally introduced back in 2016, but it does enough to keep the Hybrid visually fresh in a crowded market. Think of it as the Scandinavian way of doing a style update—clean, purposeful, and subtle. If you’re browsing similar plug-in hybrid options like the Volvo XC60 Recharge or even luxury challengers like the Lexus RX 450h+, this update quietly nudges the XC90 forward without breaking the mold.
Pricing, Trim Levels, and Best Choice
Powertrain, Transmission, and Driving Dynamics
On real roads—not just spec sheets—the powertrain in this hybrid SUV blends a turbocharged, supercharged, 2.0-liter engine with an electric boost to deliver a combined output of 455 horsepower and solid torque, offering just the right amount of shove when merging onto freeways or tackling twisty backroads. During my test, it sprinted from 0-60 with more urgency than most SUVs in this segment, yet stayed composed and quiet even under throttle. The eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth, with seamless transitions, and the all-wheel drive system ensures a sure-footed grip on low-grip or wet surface conditions. Around town, the ride leans toward comfort over aggression, with just a hint of mass when cornering hard, but that’s expected from a vehicle in this class. I did notice some minor vibration through the pedal under braking, likely from the regenerative brake system, but nothing that disrupts the overall refined feel. On highway onramps, the steering feels accurate, and even in heavy traffic or stop-and-go conditions, there’s no annoying lag or delays in response. Honestly, it handles scenic routes with the grace you’d expect from a true luxury vehicle, rivaling even offerings like the Genesis GV70 Electrified and the sportier Acura RDX A spec, while staying true to its Recharge purpose—efficient, smooth, and grounded in real-world performance.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
In my experience, the plug-in setup here is as practical as it is smooth, with a 14.7-kWh battery pack that offers an EPA-estimated 32 miles of pure electric range—perfect for short commutes or errands before the T8 engine kicks in. Using a 240-volt Level 2 charger, I was able to charge it from 0 to 100 percent in about five hours, while a public DC fast charging station added noticeable juice in under an hour. There’s also a home outlet provision, but the 16-amp setup felt too slow unless you’re plugging in overnight. On the road, you can hold battery power or let the system decide when to use gas or electric via modes that adapt to real-time driving. What stood out most was the seamless transition between power sources—whether you’re cruising or hitting the throttle, it just works. If you’re used to traditional hybrids, this offers more use flexibility and more efficient miles, especially if you lean into quick-charge habits and tap into local stations later to add range without planning your whole drive around it.
Fuel Efficiency and Real World Testing
During our week of testing in varying conditions, we ran the Hybrid vehicle through a mix of city streets and open highway stretches to get a realistic picture of its MPG performance. With the battery fully charged in Pure EV mode, it covered closer to 19–22 miles before switching over to gas, which felt reasonable given the vehicle’s size and weight. On mixed routes with some aggressive pedal input, the combined mileage settled around 30 MPG, which is solid for a plug-in SUV of this capacity. When the battery was depleted, the system smoothly transitioned into standard Hybrid mode without any drop in performance, and on a few colder mornings, we noticed a slight reduced electric range—but still far better than most non-EVs we’ve tested. In warmer temps and fully-electric mode, our experience even brushed against Prius-levels of efficiency, especially when devices were stowed, speeds were kept moderate, and the charge level stayed above 50%.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside and you’re immediately welcomed by a minimalism that doesn’t feel cold—it feels intentional, like every material was selected for its quality, not just looks. The leather, wool, and suede mix in the upholstery gives off that soft-but-structured vibe, and the padded headliner and windows help keep out road noise, turning long drives into a cozy cocoon. I tested the massagers on the front seats and honestly, they’re a standout even among pricier SUV models, giving off real credibility in the luxury segment. There’s also a panoramic sunroof that stretches across the top, letting in just enough light to highlight the elegant interior theme and give toddlers in the third row something to point at. The crystal gear shifter, a signature highlight, adds a polished touch that subtly adorns the center console. On the move, the ride absorbs bumps with a good balance of softness and firm grip, which came through clearly in our test across both city and stretch highways. Visibility is great thanks to the tallest driving position I’ve experienced this year, making it easier to exit, walk around the car, or even park next to compact EVs like the Volvo XC40 Recharge, Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S, or the slick Hyundai Ioniq 6 without feeling oversized or overstyled.
Cargo & Practicality
If practicality matters to you as much as style, this plug-in vehicle quietly excels in day-to-day functionality without shouting about it. I tested the cargo area with the third-row seats folded flat and found it spacious enough for everything from backpack-size groceries to larger weekend gear. The floor is nearly flat, which makes loading and unloading easier, especially when your hands are full, and the ride height feels just right for avoiding awkward bends. For smaller items, there are clever cubbies, trays, and cords storage under the center console, plus dual cupholders and an optional tray setup in the second-row. During testing, installing a car-seat was smooth thanks to clearly marked anchor points, and hooking up a child seat in the third-row didn’t require circus skills, though the angle and doors there are best suited for small passengers. Even the charging accessories had their own place, tucked in a slim compartment beneath the front cargo area. Compared to bulkier hybrids like the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, this setup offers a more graceful-looking, lower-profile solution with smarter maneuvering room and thoughtful safety touches throughout.
Tech & Connectivity
What stood out most during my test wasn’t just how sleek the interface looked, but how naturally the system behaved in real-world use—it’s like the tech is there to help, not to show off. The 12″ display sits neatly without glare, and both the navigation and Apple CarPlay integration worked without gaps or delays. Using voice recognition to engage cruise control, check the speed, or toggle features felt smoother than in many rivals, and even the shifter with its signature crystal P button gave off that thoughtful Volvo touch. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system, which I tested across genres, will please serious audiophiles—it filled the environment with a clean, rich sound, even during a night drive on an empty stretch of estate road. Cameras, including rear-view, top-view, and forward assist modes, offered excellent feedback when parking, and I relied on the lane and backup aids more than once when squeezing into a dark city spot. Every click and switch responded without lag, and nothing felt distracting or useless, which is a rare thing these days in digital-heavy cabins. The whole setup is engaging, not overwhelming, and helps create a serene space for the driver to just drive—which honestly might be the most underrated smart tech move of all.
Safety
Volvo’s commitment to safety is no marketing fluff—it shows up in everyday driving, not just spec sheets. During our test, I found the driver-assistance technology to be not just responsive but thoughtfully tuned, especially the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist, which kept the three-row crossover calm and steady on long highway runs. Emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and cyclist alerts all worked without being jumpy or overactive, and the lane-departure warning gave just the right nudge when needed. The system is loaded with smart features, and it shows that Volvo isn’t just chasing trends—it’s holding the line on real-world usability. When checking crash results, both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it top scores, which honestly matches the legendary roster of protections already baked in. Whether you’re navigating tight city traffic or cruising open roads, every assist feature here works to help—not take over—making it one of the few systems that truly earns the trust it asks for.
Warranty and Maintenance Plan
Volvo’s warranty offering is pretty average on paper—four years or 50,000 miles of limited coverage, plus eight years or 100,000 miles on the powertrain and electrical components, which puts it right in line with most competitors. What adds real value, though, is the complimentary scheduled maintenance plan, which runs for three years or 36,000 miles and covers routine service without surprise bills. It’s an excellent setup if you prefer predictable ownership costs, especially in a world where many rivals are trimming these perks.
Vyocar Bottom line
This SUV strikes a rare balance between luxury, efficiency, and everyday power without ever shouting about it, which feels right for drivers who want substance over flash. Whether you’re tackling city business or weekend getaways closer to nature, it offers a wide variety of choices—from smooth electronic features to refined propulsion that blends gasoline and fully-electric power with ease. After testing it across different drives, the cabin felt perfect for both work and winding down, and despite being on the more expensive end, there’s solid value here considering the options and comfort baked in. Range and charge performance were strong enough to ease typical EV anxiety, especially for anyone with home charging. It’s not just a luxurious item; it’s a well-rounded machine built for the real world, and for good reason, Volvo keeps refining what others rush to reinvent.
