First Drive: 2026 Volvo XC90

FIRST IMPRESSION: Modern, steady, and capable, the flagship XC90 keeps it real and continues to do what it’s been doing well for two decades.

We ’ve been a fan of Volvo for a while now—since we’ve had the chance to review the S90 sedan (which we miss because it’s no longer sold in the US) all the way back in 2018. We last reviewed the XC90 in December 2023 and we have to admit, it’s still a great ride for the 2026 model year.

The XC90, Volvo’s largest SUV now in its 24th model year since it launched in late 2002, was thankfully spared for the North American market. While it doesn’t seem to get the same press received by its smaller sibling (best-selling XC60) and new electric-powered cousins, it still feels contemporary and intelligently designed. Much of what we wrote about the 2024 MY still holds true, thanks to thoughtful but not drastic updates: “Volvo’s flagship SUV is a satisfying blend of luxury and sleek simplicity with a comfortable ride that any client will love,” and “The XC90 feels like it bridges that gap between purposeful and elegant.”

This go around, we tested the 7-passenger B5 Core trim, although Volvo has also earmarked the B6 Plus for livery. Both start with a 2.0L Inline 4 Mild Hybrid engine that produces 247 horsepower on the B5, while the turbocharged B6 delivers up to 295 horsepower on an AWD drivetrain.

For the 2026 MY, the XC90’s DNA remains the same (if it ain’t broke, ya know) but the front fascia gets a refresh as does the interior tech. It’s ever so slightly boxier than in recent years, perhaps a nod to its iconic wagon, but with the same dramatic taillights and Thor’s hammer headlights. It retains its length at 195 inches, and, of course, has a quiet cabin with limited road feel for a relaxed experience.

Of note: You might have heard that Volvo had a midyear release of the XC90, which it considers a 2025.5 MY and differs from the standard 2025 MY. The changes made during that launch carry over into 2026 as the first full year of that model.

At its foundation, the Volvo brand is built on safety, which is analogous to our own industry’s principal tenet. Even at the base level—Core—multiple safety features come standard, including Lane Keeping Aid, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot alerts, and several active collision avoidance systems from different angles. The back-up camera is crisp and clear. If you want to scale up to the B6, you can expect a 360-degree camera (love!), enhanced Park Assist, and larger 21-inch wheels.

Inside, Volvo keeps it stylish and streamlined, as per usual, with a larger touchscreen control in the center console, upgraded to 11.2 inches over the previous 9-inch display and featuring a suite of Google-powered tech. According to the window sticker, the 4-year digital services subscription includes Google Maps, Play, and Assistant. Doors are a mix of ash wood and stitched Nordico, a sustainable material that feels supple yet durable. The seat cushioning is on the firmer side (our preference) but ultimately very supportive and comfortable for longer and shorter rides in our experience—not to mention that both front and rear seats are heated. The panoramic sunroof with power sunshade returns, and the crystal gear shifter is about as ostentatious as the refined XC90 gets.

As for the third row, not much has changed: It’s useable. The space for knees and heads is quite tight for even average-size humans, but we’d probably opt to drop the seats and increase the cargo space, especially since the cargo capacity is just 10.6 cubic feet behind the third row. Our industry’s struggle is always applying consumer, wide-audience vehicles to a niche transportation sector, so this one is likely best used as a four-person max hauler for most operators—something that Volvo recognizes for our sector too. If you do opt to use that row, the cupholders are a plus. While it does have power-folding headrests, we wish that it also had power-folding seats.

Bottom line: It’s a luxury premium vehicle and comfortable, reliable hauler that gives you what you need and nothing you don’t.   [CD1025]