You're right to bring up the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 — it's absolutely a hidden gem right now in the midsize luxury SUV world!
Here’s why people are forgetting it — and why it might actually be the perfect choice if you want luxury without shouting about it:
(Still cheaper than a comparably loaded BMW X5 or Mercedes GLE!)
Bottom Line:
The 2025.5 XC90 is the thinking person's luxury SUV — luxurious, super safe, comfortable, and practical, without the crazy price tag or flashiness. If you forgot about it, now's a good time to look again.
Would you like me to also show you a side-by-side against something like the Lexus RX 500h or Genesis GV80 too? They are also big competitors now!
(Volvo is quieter and roomier than both.)
Here’s why people are forgetting it — and why it might actually be the perfect choice if you want luxury without shouting about it:
What's New in the 2025.5 Volvo XC90:
- Minor Facelift:
- Very subtle exterior tweaks (new lights, slightly refreshed bumpers).
- Volvo kept the classic elegant design — it’s not trying to be overly aggressive like BMW or Lexus.
- Updated Infotainment:
- Runs on Google built-in (Google Maps, Assistant, Play Store), now faster and smoother.
- Larger touchscreen and better voice control.
- Mild Hybrid as Standard:
- All engines are now electrified (B5, B6 mild-hybrid, or T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid).
- More Safety Tech:
- Updated Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving.
- New Intersection Collision Avoidance system.
- Interior Tweaks:
- Even nicer materials (wool-blend seats, crystal gear lever still available).
- Cleaner dashboard with fewer buttons.
Why It's Still Perfect:
- True 7-Seater:
- Some "7-seaters" are cramped in the back, but XC90’s 3rd row is actually usable for adults on shorter trips.
- Ride Comfort:
- Super quiet cabin.
- Air suspension option (glides over bad roads like a Range Rover).
- Safety King:
- Volvo still leads in crash tests and active safety features.
- Luxury without Flash:
- Understated, minimalist Scandinavian design — perfect if you want class without looking too "rich and loud."
- T8 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid Option:
- 455 hp, 0–60 mph in 5 seconds, and 32–36 miles of electric-only range.
- After tax credits and incentives, it competes in price with some lower trims of BMW X5 and Audi Q7.
Size:
- Length: 195 inches
- Width: 79 inches
- Cargo Space:
- ~15.8 cu ft behind 3rd row
- ~41.8 cu ft behind 2nd row
- ~85.7 cu ft total (with all seats folded)
(Similar to Audi Q7, bigger than BMW X5.)
Price (Estimates for 2025.5):
- XC90 B5 Core: around $58,000
- XC90 B6 Plus: around $63,000
- XC90 T8 Recharge Ultimate: around $74,000–$80,000
(Still cheaper than a comparably loaded BMW X5 or Mercedes GLE!)
Quick Verdict:
| Volvo XC90 | BMW X5 | Audi Q7 |
|---|---|---|---|
Design | Minimalist, elegant | Sporty, bold | Tech-focused |
Ride | Comfort-prioritized | Sportier | Balanced |
Space | Big 3rd row, huge cargo | Tight 3rd row | Decent 3rd row |
Engine | Mild hybrid & strong PHEV | Gas, hybrid, PHEV | Gas, PHEV |
Price | Lower | Higher | Higher |
Bottom Line:The 2025.5 XC90 is the thinking person's luxury SUV — luxurious, super safe, comfortable, and practical, without the crazy price tag or flashiness. If you forgot about it, now's a good time to look again.
Would you like me to also show you a side-by-side against something like the Lexus RX 500h or Genesis GV80 too? They are also big competitors now!
(Volvo is quieter and roomier than both.)