The XC90 continues to thrive in the competitive luxury SUV segment. The 2019 Volvo XC90 can be configured in one of four trim levels, features three powerplant options (including the T8 plug-in hybrid), and is elegantly appointed inside and out. This comfortable riding and luxury-enhanced Swedish beauty is an exceptional option for families or individuals living in cold-weather environments or those looking for posh above function in their luxury SUV.
Volvos tend to receive full makeovers in five-year cycles – which coincide with a new generation of each model. For 2019, the XC90 is mainly unchanged and continues in the second generation of this popular mid-size luxury SUV. It does add a few perks for base all-wheel-drive models, including four-zone climate control and heated seats. The R-Design and Inscription trim gain an improved Harmon Kardon stereo system. Besides these minor enhancements, the 2019 Volvo XC90 remains mainly unchanged.
For those considering the Volvo XC90, there are several trims and power options to consider – along with a rather stout budget range. The XC90 features three engines, designated as “T” variants; each mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 indicates a 250-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that belts out 258 pound-feet of torque. With front-wheel drive, this engine returns an EPA-estimated 21 miles per gallon city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 combined. Upgrading to the T5 with all-wheel drive costs consumers an extra $2,500 and drops EPA ratings to 20/27/23 mpg (city/highway/combined).
The T6 engine is a supercharged variant of 2.0-liter engine that increases output to 316 ponies and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T6 is only offered in all-wheel drive and returns 19/26/22 mpg. The T8 is the plug-in hybrid, which stuffs an 87-hp electric motor under the hood. Combined, the T8 is capable of 400 hp, 472 lb-ft of torque, and 58 MPGe combined.
Volvo offers four trim levels, each can be configured with one of the three engines posted above. The Momentum is the base, followed by the R-Design, Inscription, and the range-topping Excellence.
The base XC90 is the Momentum, which starts at $48,195 (all prices include the $995 destination charge). Consumers can opt for the T5 FWD, T5 AWD (for $2,500 extra), T6 AWD ($8,500 additional from the base), and T8 Plug-In Hybrid (for $19,100 above the base T5).
The Momentum is exceptionally well equipped with standard tech and active safety features including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist, and more. An eight-inch touchscreen infotainment screen is standard, as is a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio (with a three-month subscription), HomeLink, and four-zone automatic climate control. Additional standard features include a panoramic moonroof, leatherette upholstery, third seat climate unit, and a power adjustable front seat.
Volvo specializes in additional package options with their models, and the XC90 is no exception. A heated steering wheel and seats can be added for $750 extra. A Multimedia Package ($2,500) includes an enhanced Harmon Kardon sound system and a 12.3-inch driver instrument display with navigation. The Advanced Package ($2,500) offers a surround-view camera, a head-up display, parking assist pilot, active bending lights, and a high-pressure headlight cleaning system.
The performance-enhanced R-Design is the second-tier trim that begins at $55,445 for the T5 FWD, with similar price increases for enhanced powertrain options listed above. The additional price bump adds 20-inch performance wheels, the Multimedia Package options, keyless entry with a hands-free power truck opening, an R-Design grille, metal mesh interior inlays, R-Design branded leather upholstery, a power driver seat with memory function, paddle shifters, and a Pilot Assist semi-autonomous drive system. The heated seats and steering wheel and Advance Package groups return unchanged.
The 2019 Volvo XC90 Inscription, which starts at $62,745, ups the game on opulence and is only available with the T6 and T8 powertrains. The main enhancements to the Inscription include Linear Walnut Wood inlays, Nappa leather upholstery, premium carpet, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. At this price-point, the seats are heated and ventilated, and the outside is spiced up with 20-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels. An upgraded Harmon Kardon sound system is also standard. In addition to the heated seats and steering wheel group and the Advanced Package, the Luxury Package ($3,100) is available on the Inscription. It adds a heated steering wheel, Nubuck headliner, heated rear seats, and backrest massage front seats.
On top of the mountain is the Excellence, which is a T8 AWD Plug-In Hybrid and starts at $105,895. This is the ultimate in opulence that Volvo offers in their SUV lineup. The Excellence adds a Bowers and Wilkins premium sound system, a Crystal Gearshift Knob by Orrefors, front and rear seats with ventilation and massage functionality. The third row vanishes and is replaced by a unique two-plus-two configuration. In the second row, an added 4.3-touchscreen control system and footrests are included. There are two USB outlets to that display screen, as well as a refrigerator. The Excellence includes every Volvo bell-and-whistle available as standard, so there are no available packages.
The 2019 Volvo XC90 is not for the timid. With a price tag that ranges from just shy of $50,000 to eclipsing $100,000 for the Excellence, consumers can configure an XC90 to fit their budget and desires. For the money, the T6 AWD powertrain is a must-have for virtually any consumer, especially in cold weather climates.
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