Comparison - Volvo XC90 Hybrid T8 R-Design 2017 - vs - Subaru Ascent Premium 2020

The XC90 is a handsome, square-jawed Swede striving to offer more efficiency and safety than its rivals, while adding a dose of Scandinavian flair. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder uses turbocharging and supercharging to create 316 hp and drives all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic. An 80-hp electric motor joins the party in plug-in hybrid models. There’s room for seven in the elegantly appointed interior, with deeply comfortable seats as well as Sensus, Volvo’s new infotainment system.

After extended product doldrums due to changing overlords, Volvo has emerged as strong as ever with the launch of the XC90 SUV for 2016, the impressive start of an all-new lineup developed under Chinese owner Geely. With an upright and bold countenance, the XC90 exudes confidence, and its nearly Range Rover–rivaling presence, along with a full complement of features and technology, comfortably earns its way further upmarket than previous XC90s

A gorgeously compelling new entry that is upending the luxury-SUV oligarchy.

Pros
The decadently detailed and gorgeous interior including open-pore walnut wood trim, which also adorns the sliding cupholder cover, in the elevated Inscription-trim T6 and test cars we evaluated

Cons
We’re not convinced that four-cylinder-only power is the way to go, not so much for performance reasons—although, by a narrow margin, the XC90 was the slowest in its last comparison-test appearance—but mostly because the engine sounds gravelly in its upper reaches, which is discordant with the luxury mission

Among three-row luxury SUVs, the 2017 Volvo XC90 has outstanding cargo capacity, style and safety features. The cabin is particularly elegant and offers many options for personalization. Its engine power and ride quality aren’t segment-leading, but this is still a midsize SUV that deserves consideration

The 2017 Volvo XC90 receives updates to its driver assistance system and more apps for its infotainment system, plus the addition of a range-topping new trim level.

lthough Volvo's latest four-cylinder engine has considerable power, the heavy weight of the XC90 makes it feel unimpressive. Its numbers are promising, but in real-world, day-to-day use, acceleration and refinement are lacking. Other rival crossovers feel notably snappier and more responsive when accelerating up to freeway speeds or passing a slow-moving vehicle. We haven't driven the XC90 with the base turbocharged engine, but we expect to find its 250 hp a bit meager for a vehicle of this size.

Pros
Elegant styling inside and out; spacious second- and third-row seating for a midsize SUV; many standard safety technology features; precise handling that inspires confidence; available plug-in hybrid model.

Cons
Overly busy ride quality for a vehicle in its class; comes up short on performance and real-world fuel economy; some of its standard touchscreen controls can be hard to use.

It’s the greatest continuity travesty since Sully’s Porsche Targa repair in Commando. A flip-flop more obvious than Bond’s flop flipping Mustang in Diamonds Are Forever. Jump on the internet. Get those hashtags burning!

And while you would be correct, there is a good reason why our Crystal White 2017 Volvo XC90 T8 R-Design is not the Bursting Blue XC90 T6 of previous updates

Volvo noted that upwards of 70 per cent of XC90 buyers wanted this technology, so it makes sense to include it as baseline equipment

What is cool, is with the air package, you can raise the car for an off-road setting, but also lower the rear to make loading luggage easier

That excellent interior, those lovely materials and of course, the amazing stereo, make the XC90 a classy and so far, dependable option in the luxury SUV space.

Pros
Very clever driveline which works smoothly within its range
Punchy when charged
No loss of space or interior packaging due to hybrid platform

Cons
T8 is an expensive option and comes with compromised driving range
Fuel economy claims are impossible to meet
Cheeky option price increases