2016-2022 Volvo XC90: What You Should Know Before You Buy
Since 2002, the Volvo XC90 has been a favourite for families who like Scandinavian style and luxury. Two generations have seen the light of day so far; the latest was launched model year 2016, and a third one will soon arrive with a state-of-the-art and entirely electric EX90.
For those who simply want to enjoy the current model’s qualities, why not go for a pre-owned specimen?
We often hear that Volvo’s reliability leaves much to be desired, and that reputation is unfortunately deserved, as shown by studies by Consumer Reports, J.D. Power and others. An XC90 still covered by the original manufacturer’s warranty (4 years or 80,000 km bumper-to-bumper and on the drivetrain) is by far preferable. Otherwise, buying an extended warranty will be a wise decision. If you can buy an XC90, there’s no doubt you can afford it.
Now let’s focus on the Volvo XC90s sold between 2016 and today. You’ll find them with T6 or T8 mentions, which describe what’s under the hood. The first refers to a 2.0-litre four-cylinder that is both turbocharged and supercharged, and produces a solid 316 horsepower and 295 foot-pounds of torque. The second is a rechargeable hybrid that includes an electric motor, for a combined output of 400 horsepower and a 472-foot-pound torque. A high voltage 9.2 kWh battery is also part of the equation, allowing an electric autonomy of about 20 kilometres at most.
All versions include an all-wheel drive. Despite the eight-speed automatic transmission, the XC90’s consumption is higher than average, and of course, premium fuel is required. As for its towing capacity, it can reach up to 5,000 pounds.
If you have more modest needs, a T5 turbocharged motorisation also exists, generating 250 horsepower and 258 foot-pounds for a city-highway combined consumption of 10 L/100 km or less. Although the performances and driving pleasure are fairly reduced with the T5, comfort and safety remains pretty much the same. We say “pretty much” because the XC90 T6 and T8 naturally offer more equipment and convenience.
By the way, three trims are generally available: Momentum, R-Design and Inscription. The second stands out thanks to its sporty looks and behaviour, while the last is the epitome of Volvo luxury.
In some cases, the front seats have a massage function, which is nice. The second row can incline and slide front to back, and the last row has reasonable leg room. When unoccupied, all seats can be folded down to allow up to 1,868 litres of luggage space. Otherwise, the trunk can only hold 368 litres.
The XC90 has received an aesthetic update and other improvements for 2020. A Bowers & Wilkins surround sound audio system, Napa leather, an eight-inch touch screen and new advanced driving aid systems have all been added to the menu.
Among the criticisms given to this great Volvo—besides its reliability issues—let’s mention an infotainment system that lacks user-friendliness, an automatic transmission sequential mode that’s hard to master, some controls’ ergonomics that would benefit from a revision, and a fussy luggage space cover. You’ll have to road test one to see if these things really bother you.
Happy shopping!
