Volvo’s roadmap to an all-electric future is well underway, with the brand pledging to go fully EV by 2030. But in the meantime, the Swedish automaker is offering something uniquely compelling for today’s buyers—vehicles that blend traditional powertrains with forward-thinking efficiency. Case in point: the 2025 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid.
Serving as the bridge between Volvo’s gas-powered past and its electric future, the XC90 Plug-In delivers an impressive mix of power, luxury, and green-conscious performance, wrapped in the brand’s signature Scandinavian design language.
Powertrain & Efficiency: Big Numbers, No Compromises: Built on the same platform as the gas-powered XC90, the plug-in hybrid variant brings together a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and battery pack. The result? A combined 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, routed through an eight-speed automatic with standard all-wheel drive.
This setup delivers an EPA-estimated 58 MPGe, 27 mpg on gas alone, and 33 miles of electric-only range—enough to handle most daily commutes without touching a drop of fuel. It’s a setup that balances performance and efficiency better than most three-row SUVs in its class.
Real-World Luxury: Inside, the XC90 Plug-In Hybrid doesn’t just borrow cues from the luxury segment—it defines them. From multi-adjustable, heated leather seats to matte-finish wood accents and optional wool-blend upholstery, Volvo’s cabin experience is refined, functional, and quietly upscale.
You’ll find seating for seven (or six with optional second-row captain’s chairs), with plenty of space in the first two rows. The third row, as expected in a midsize SUV, is best suited for kids or occasional adult use.
Where the XC90 falls a bit short is cargo room—offering 11.2 cubic feet behind the third row due to hybrid hardware. Fold the rear seats down, and you get a more respectable 34 cubic feet, though still less than rivals like the Lincoln Aviator.
Trim Breakdown & Features: The 2025 XC90 Plug-In Hybrid comes in three trims: Core, Plus, and Ultra. All trims include the same robust powertrain, AWD, and a long list of luxury features. Here’s a quick overview:
- Core ($73,195): 20-inch wheels, panoramic roof, leather interior, 4-zone climate control, 9-inch vertical touchscreen, navigation, wireless charging, and a suite of advanced safety features.
- Plus ($75,095): Adds a 360-degree camera, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, and additional parking assist features.
- Ultra ($80,895): Ups the ante with 21-inch wheels, ventilated front seats, rear sunshades, a head-up display, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system.
If you’re asking where the best value lives, the Core trim hits the sweet spot. You won’t feel short-changed, and you’ll pocket a few grand over the top-tier trims.
Performance & Towing: The XC90 Plug-In Hybrid isn’t a back-road brawler, but it’s no slouch either. With a 0-60 mph time of 5 seconds, it matches the performance of the BMW X5 xDrive50e. The ride is smooth, steering is confident, and the power delivery is clean and responsive. For a three-row family SUV, it delivers a surprisingly refined driving experience.
And yes, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is impressive for a hybrid—though not quite up to the BMW’s 7,200-pound rating.
Technology & Connectivity: Tech-savvy drivers will appreciate Volvo’s Google-based infotainment system. It’s centered around a 9-inch vertical touchscreen—slightly dated in form factor, but still functional. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot come standard.
Audiophiles will want to spring for the optional 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system, which features immersive sound modes that recreate concert hall, studio, or jazz club acoustics. It’s one of the best-sounding systems in any SUV at any price.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Volvo has long been synonymous with safety, and the XC90 Plug-In Hybrid is no exception. It hasn’t been rated yet for 2025, but the nearly identical 2024 model earned five stars from the NHTSA and Top Safety Pick status from the IIHS.
Every trim comes standard with:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keeping assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Pedestrian detection
- Automatic emergency braking
- And front/rear parking sensors
You won’t have to pay extra for peace of mind here.
Verdict: A Premium Hybrid That Makes Sense
The 2025 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid stands out not just because it’s efficient or luxurious—it’s because it nails both. It’s the kind of SUV that feels future-ready without forcing you to give up what works today.
Sure, some competitors offer more cargo space, sportier dynamics, or deeper electric range. But as an all-around package, the XC90 Plug-In is hard to beat—especially if you’re looking for a vehicle that blends elegance, efficiency, and real-world utility.
If the XC90 Plug-In Hybrid—or any other new or used car—is on your radar, don’t go shopping blind. At Quotes.EverymanDriver.com, you can access real-time dealer pricing from qualified dealerships in your area.
This free tool is used by thousands of car buyers every day to compare offers, uncover hidden discounts, and save hundreds—sometimes even thousands—of dollars on their next vehicle. It’s simple, quick, and completely pressure-free.
Why overpay when you don’t have to? Visit Quotes.EverymanDriver.com today and start your smarter car search right now.
