Volvo makes a number of minor changes to the 2021 XC90 lineup. Every model now comes standard with front parking sensors, LED headlights that turn with the steering wheel, high-pressure headlight washers, wireless charging, two USB-C ports on the back of the center console, and the company's Care Key, which allows an owner to set limitations on the vehicle's top speed. The plug-in-hybrid T8 is now branded with the Recharge moniker..
Pros Stunning styling inside and out, impressive list of features, quick plug-in hybrid.
Cons Coarse-sounding gas engines, harsh ride on rough roads, plug-in hybrid isn't as efficient as rivals.
Low-key luxury lies in the 2021 Volvo XC90’s serene cockpit, in its strong acceleration, and in its gray-wool confines.
Pros Proudly Scandinavian, inside and out Simple and sophisticated interior Tablet-like touchscreen Lots of models and trims Great safety record and standard active tech
Cons Base powertrain lacks potency Some flimsy materials in the cabin Not a performance SUV
T8 plug-in hybrid model now known as Recharge.Minor changes to standard feature availability.
PROS Elegant interior and exterior styling Spacious second- and third-row seating Hybrid powertrain provides strong acceleration and high fuel economy Many standard safety tech features
CONS Some touchscreen controls can be hard to use Voice controls don't recognize natural speech very well
Former T8 plug-in hybrid is now called Recharge.Adaptive headlights, hands-free liftgate and rear USB-C ports added as standard.
Pros Elegant interior design Spacious second-row seating Many standard safety tech features Available as a plug-in hybrid
Cons Not as fun to drive as most competitors Too many controls tied to frustrating touchscreen interface Ride is a little busier than you might expect from a luxury crossover
The XC60 receives several new standard features for 2021, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, LED headlights, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and front parking sensors, as well as a new 19-inch wheel design and power-folding exterior mirrors with an auto-dimming function. Volvo has eliminated AM radio on the XC60, but fans of the format will still be able to listen via a provided app, TuneIn, through the infotainment system.
Pros Handsomely designed inside and out, good fuel economy from all three powertrains, plenty of standard safety tech.
Cons Infotainment system response lags at startup, hybrid powertrain needs refinement, dinky interior storage bins.
The 2019 Volvo XC60 is the full picture: advanced powertrains, gorgeous interior, subtle exterior.
Pros New, affordable front-wheel drive offering Gorgeous interior Competent powertrains Standard advanced safety features Logical and sharp touchscreen
Cons Can get pricey quickly Not especially fuel efficient without a plug Requires premium fuel It’s not in our driveway now
