Volvo's XC90 is a different take on the large, 7-seat SUV, and it shows that you don’t have to go with one of the big German brands to get something really luxurious, high-tech and classy. This SUV is typically well made, giving excellent quality throughout without being lavish, and is one of the best cars of its type to lease.
Stylish without being flashy.
Top-quality, high-tech but minimalist interior.
Confidence-inspiring and comfortable on the road.
There’s a wide choice of large premium SUVs on the market, but many fit a very similar mould. The XC90 is refreshingly different, mixing comfort, luxury and tech with a Swedish aesthetic that makes it stand out. It’ll carry up to 7 people, and even has the option of plug-in hybrid power.
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All XC90s come with 7 seats, including the plug-in hybrid model – which is unique in that many hybrid rivals forgo the 3rd row of seats to fit in extra batteries.
The middle-row seats slide forwards and backwards independently, giving flexibility to different size passengers. You can also fold all 5 rear seats flat if you want to carry large loads. But the boot is big enough anyway, with 356 litres of space even with the 3rd-row seats upright. It’s slightly smaller in the hybrid model, but not by much.
You’ve also got plenty of space to store odds and ends inside, including big door pockets up front and a generous glovebox, plus lots of storage under the front centre armrest.
The XC90 is a big car and moving it takes some muscle, but Volvo has included mild-hybrid tech in its popular B5 diesel engine to improve fuel economy. It promises up to 41.5mpg, which isn’t bad for something this large. The B5 petrol will deliver up to 32.4mpg, and the B6 up to 30.7mpg.
For the best fuel-saving performance, go for the T8 plug-in hybrid system, which has loads of power but promises up to 100.9mpg thanks to its electric-only option. You’ll need to keep the battery charged up though, by regularly plugging it into the grid, either at home or at a public charger.
The XC90 comes only as a 5-door, 7-seat large SUV.
The XC90 is well kitted out, with the Momentum model including 19-inch wheels, all-wheel drive and LED headlights, as well as leather seats, satnav and a 10-speaker sound system. You’ll also get lots of safety systems and adaptive cruise control, which is great in slow-moving traffic.
Trim Levels Avaialble: Momentum, Inscription Expression, R-Design, R-Design Pro, Inscription, Inscription Pro
The big rivals for the XC90 include the big 3 German brands – Audi’s Q7, the BMW X5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLE. All have their own strengths. The Audi has a brilliant interior and great space inside, while the BMW is by far the most fun to drive. A Porsche Cayenne is even better but doesn’t have 7 seats. You could also consider Land Rover Discovery leasing, which is the only real choice if you need to take on off-road terrain, and it is also very spacious. If you’re on a budget, look at Kia’s Sorento or the Skoda Kodiaq.
Check out our 5 Best Alternatives To The Volvo XC90 for more details on the competition.
The XC90 will appeal to those that don’t want to compromise on quality and luxury but aren’t tempted by the obvious German rivals. They’ll also want to cruise in comfort, rather than focus on speed or sharp handling. The XC90 is a smart alternative to the mainstream.
You can expect better reliability in the XC90 than quite a few of its rivals. Luxury SUVs as a whole don’t have a great reputation for reliability, but the XC90 is one of the better ones, according to independent studies. Expect better reliability than quite a few of its rivals.
Its diesel and plug-in hybrid engines should deliver very reasonable fuel economy, while its strong safety performance helps keep insurance reasonable too.
Yes. As well as plenty of space for up to 7 passengers, the XC90 has a huge boot, especially if you can fold the rear seats down. With them up, you’ll still have good luggage space and there are plenty of cubby holes, pockets and storage spaces around the cabin for assorted belongings.
The XC90 is a solid all-rounder when you compare it to its competition. It’s not the best in any one aspect, but it’s very good at everything, from the overall driving experience to running costs and practicality. If you have a particular focus on a single criterion then you’ll find lease deals on attractive alternatives, but the XC90 will do most things you need it to.
The Volvo XC90 has attracted a sizeable fan base because it does so many things so well. It maintains an understated classiness in a sector of the market that can sometimes come across as rather brash.
Choose Vanarama for the best price on your Volvo XC90 ease. We guarantee the best leasing deal on the market. Not to mention, your brand new car will be delivered directly to you thanks to free delivery included in every deal. And, if you happen to change your mind in 30 days, you can return the car free of charge.
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