The Volvo XC90 T8 Is The Swiss Army Knife Of SUVs

Jeremy Taylor and Jessica Talbot-Ponsonby drive a plug-in seven-seater that refuses to go away quietly.

Long Term Test: Volvo XC90 T8

Jeremy: ‘Reports of my death are greatly exaggerated’. That famous quote was attributed to author Mark Twain when a newspaper incorrectly announced his passing. The same could be said about the Volvo XC90 – a car I first drove in 2002.

Back then, the term ‘SUV’, or sports utility vehicle, was relatively unknown. Volvo made sensible, safe, family estates, but the outsize XC90 quickly became a massive success. Widely praised, it won countless awards and was among a trickle of SUVs that eventually became a flood.

A benchmark for understated luxury, the refreshed 2026 version looks better than ever. And while Volvo’s flagship model now competes with rival SUVs from every major manufacturer, it remains the perfect all-wheel drive vehicle for family-orientated travel.

Last year, Volvo launched the all-electric EX90, in line with plans to halt production of combustion-engined cars like the XC90 for good. However, as the public struggled to fully accept EVs, the Swedish brand said it will continue to sell the hybrid XC90 while there is still demand – bridging the gap for customers not quite ready to switch to battery power only.

That’s great news for those of us who regard the XC90 as a masterpiece of minimalist Scandinavian design. Still as safe as ever, latest updates include a more refined, streamlined shape and a larger 11-inch infotainment screen, powered by Google technology.

Our top of the range T8 Ultra test car has a 2.0-litre petrol engine and battery pack – the latter will silently drive the XC90 for up to 43 miles. Key features include a 10-speaker sound system, the latest Matrix LED headlights and keyless entry. This being a Volvo, expect every possible safety system as standard too.

The Ultra is not far off Range Rover money at £86,550 but equally as swanky. If you don’t like driving a giant SUV, or risk the experience of low consumer satisfaction ratings associated with Land Rover, the svelte, under-the-radar XC90 could be the car for you.

Often described as the Swiss Army knife of luxury SUVs, the XC90 doesn’t just transport a family of seven, it offers something of a mobile sanctuary. And while it feels as robust as a tank, the big Volvo is surprisingly agile to drive. Perhaps not as sporty as a BMW X5, air suspension prioritises a relaxed, chauffeur-like ride, with all the surefooted grip that comes with all-wheel drive.

Add to this a whopping 680-litre boot in five-seat mode and neat practical touches, such as integrated child booster seats and built-in Spotify, and it’s easy understand why the XC90 remains as popular as ever. I’m especially fond of the new front grille and ‘Thor hammer’ headlights, probably my favourite design for any SUV.

Jessica: Scandinavian cool, plug-in efficiency, tons of space – what’s not to like about the latest XC90? A calming cabin cut from real wood and optional wool blends in some versions, inside it feels like a home from home.

Although the XC90 is now a relatively old design in the SUV segment, it feels timeless and immensely safe. I love the high-driving position for brilliant all-round visibility and the super comfortable seats, developed together with spinal researchers. I’d like to see more physical buttons instead of touchscreen menus for some of the most-used controls but otherwise, the big Volvo is top of the class.

Find out more about the Volvo XC90 T8 at volvocars.com

Jessica Talbot-Ponsonby is Director of Programmes at London College of Fashion, studying for a PhD in sustainable e-textile design.