The Volvo XC90 has been a flagship model for the Swedish brand, and the current generation, launched half a decade ago, still holds its own in the competitive luxury SUV market. Built on Volvo’s Scalable Product Architecture and powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the XC90 range culminates in the T8 plug-in hybrid, now rebranded as Recharge. This model boasts a unique powertrain combining turbocharging, supercharging, and electrification. For the 2021 model year, the 2021 Xc90 Recharge received minor updates, but the automotive landscape has shifted significantly in the past five years. This review delves into whether Volvo’s flagship SUV remains a compelling choice against its modern luxury rivals.
The 2021 XC90 Recharge maintains its core strengths: elegant Scandinavian design, a strong emphasis on safety, and a comfortable, refined driving experience. However, it’s not aiming for sporty dynamics, a crucial consideration in today’s market where “sporty SUVs” are increasingly common. The key question is: how well does the 2021 XC90 perform as a comfortable and enjoyable vehicle, particularly for longer journeys? This review assesses its road trip capabilities and overall appeal in the current luxury SUV segment.
Svelte and Timeless Swedish Styling
Volvo’s design philosophy has always been a strong selling point, and the XC90 is a prime example. Even after six years, the design of the 2021 XC90 remains remarkably fresh and appealing. Subtle updates like the concave waterfall grille and new wheel designs have been introduced over the years, but the fundamental design language is enduring. In an era of increasingly aggressive and bulky SUV designs, the XC90’s understated elegance is a refreshing alternative. It’s simply a beautiful vehicle to behold. For those seeking a more dynamic appearance, Volvo offers the R-Design trim for the Recharge T8, adding sporty visual cues.
The interior design of the 2021 XC90 Recharge is even more impressive. The cabin is a sanctuary of soft-toned amber leather, complemented by black ash wood inlays and meticulous contrast stitching, creating a harmonious and luxurious environment. The Inscription model elevates this further with an Orrefors “Crystal Eye” gear selector, a handcrafted crystal glass detail. While some may consider it unnecessary, this posh touch reinforces the 2021 XC90 Recharge‘s premium status without being ostentatious. The optional $3,200 Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system further enhances the sophisticated ambiance, featuring a distinctive tweeter positioned atop the dashboard.
Comfort, Convenience, and Advanced Safety Features
Setting out on a road trip in the 2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge immediately highlights its exceptional ride comfort. The optional $1,600 four-corner air suspension delivers a near-flawless experience, particularly on highways. The suspension is clearly tuned for luxury, even in “Power” mode. While the 2021 XC90 offers selectable drive modes, including “Power,” it’s not designed for aggressive cornering, despite its 5,100-pound weight. The standard “Hybrid” mode is well-suited for most driving situations. Volvo also provides a “Constant AWD” mode for enhanced traction in slippery conditions and an “Off-Road” setting for light off-pavement excursions. During this review, driving was primarily limited to paved roads and occasional dirt roads.
Technologically, the 2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge is well-equipped. The updated Sensus infotainment system manages safety and hybrid functions, climate control, navigation, and media, including Apple CarPlay. The Sensus system has faced criticism in the past for being slow and occasionally unresponsive. Volvo’s minimalist interior design means that many functions, such as heated seats and steering wheel controls, are integrated into the touchscreen interface.
The Volvo XC90 provides adequate legroom in the second and third rows, suitable for families.
While the system is now more responsive, the 9.0-inch screen appears somewhat small compared to contemporary standards. It also lacks the crispness and feature richness of newer infotainment systems, particularly those with gesture controls or advanced voice recognition. The tablet-like design, cutting-edge five years ago, is starting to show its age. Customization options for displayed information are limited, both on the central screen and the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
On the positive side, the $1,700 Lounge Package includes massaging front seats, a welcome feature for long drives. The $1,500 Advanced Package adds a helpful head-up display and a 360-degree surround-view camera system. The $750 Climate Package includes heated steering wheel, rear seats, and windscreen washers, enhancing comfort in colder climates.
Volvo’s Pilot Assist: Still a Leader in Safety Technology
For buyers considering the 2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge, Volvo’s renowned safety reputation is likely a key factor. The Pilot Assist system, a pioneering feature, remains user-friendly. Engaging it is simple: activate cruise control and press an arrow button on the steering wheel to enable or disable steering assist. However, there are minor signs of its age. Speed adjustments, for instance, are primarily in 5 mph increments (though finer adjustments are possible with a long press of the button). Pilot Assist is a hands-on system, designed to prompt driver engagement if hands are removed from the steering wheel for an extended period.
Beyond driver-assistance systems, the 2021 XC90 excels in passive safety. It earned a 2020 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, although it’s important to note that several competitors also achieve this top safety accolade.
Performance: Quick but Noisy Under Hard Acceleration
The 2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 presents a compelling performance proposition on paper. Its 2.0-liter “Twin Engine” powertrain delivers a combined 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque. Power is distributed to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission, offering a conventional and smooth driving experience. In normal driving, the transition between the twin-charged engine and electric motor is seamless. However, under hard acceleration, there is a noticeable lag. With a complex powertrain involving a turbocharger, supercharger, electric motor, and automatic gearbox, responsiveness isn’t as immediate as some competitors, such as the Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring or the all-electric Tesla Model X.
Fuel efficiency and electric range are areas where the 2021 XC90 Recharge shows limitations. The official all-electric range is just 18 miles, courtesy of its 11.6-kWh battery. While slightly improved from the original version, this range is primarily useful for short commutes and becomes negligible at highway speeds. The EPA-estimated fuel economy on gasoline alone is 27 mpg. In real-world highway driving over 280 miles, the observed fuel economy was between 25 and 26 mpg, slightly below expectations.
Verdict: A Capable Road Trip SUV, But Consider the Value
Overall, the 2021 Volvo XC90 Recharge proved to be a comfortable and enjoyable road trip companion. It effectively mitigated the fatigue and monotony often associated with long drives. However, the question remains: Is the Volvo XC90 the optimal choice in today’s market?
In the plug-in hybrid SUV segment, key rivals include the Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring and the Range Rover P400e. The Aviator Grand Touring offers significantly more power (494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque) and arguably better value, albeit with a less understated aesthetic. The Range Rover P400e embodies ultimate luxury but comes with a considerably higher price tag, starting above $90,000.
The as-tested price of the 2021 XC90 Recharge Inscription, loaded with options, reaches a substantial $81,840. While it offers comfort and decent efficiency, justifying this price point is challenging, especially considering the limited electric range. A $5,419 tax credit for PHEVs helps to offset the cost. However, the base, front-wheel-drive XC90 T5 (non-hybrid) starts at a more reasonable $49,695. Mid-range XC90 models offer a better balance of style, technology, and value. The disappointing electric range of the Recharge model makes it less compelling, and the gasoline-powered models present a more sensible compromise in terms of value and fuel economy for most buyers. Stepping down a couple of trims in the XC90 range makes it a more appealing option as a cross-country vehicle.
A detailed video review is forthcoming on the TFLnow channel for further insights. Stay tuned for more updates.
