THE 2025.5 VOLVO XC90 T8 HYBRID IS AN ULTRA LUXURIOUS SUV WITH EVEN MORE SCANDINAVIAN CHARM

EV Channels Review

The 2025.5 Volvo XC90 T8 Ultra receives a second refresh, maintaining its position as a well-rounded luxury midsize SUV. The reviewer praises the updated styling, particularly the new Malberry Red paint and refined Thor's Hammer headlights, which keep the exterior looking modern despite its age. Inside, the cabin is lauded for its luxurious materials, comfortable and highly adjustable seats (including massage functions), and the impressive Bowers & Wilkins sound system. The new 11.2-inch infotainment system with Google built-in is an improvement, though the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and a slightly smaller screen size compared to some rivals are noted drawbacks. The T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers strong performance with 455 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time around 4.9 seconds, while offering approximately 32 miles of electric-only range. The ride quality is exceptionally comfortable and quiet, prioritizing luxury over sportiness. However, the vehicle's smaller exterior dimensions compared to newer competitors like the Lexus TX result in less cargo and third-row space. The reviewer concludes that while not a full redesign, the updates make the XC90 highly competitive, offering a compelling blend of luxury, technology, and performance, though the high price point for the T8 Ultra trim is a significant consideration.