The Volvo That Changed The Game | 2020 Volvo XC90 T8

Volvo has been on the rise lately and it all started about 5 years ago with the second generation XC90. The new SUV launched Volvo's sexy new design language, their finally world class interiors and their highly competitive plug in hybrid systems. While BMW may sell more PHEVs total, Volvo leads the luxury segment in America with a greater percentage of models sold as plug-in-hybrids. Let's check out the 2020 XC90 and take a trip down memory lane to see if Volvo's people carrier is right for you.

[kentjohnson]

Alex: Just a note of appreciation for the thoroughness and professionalism of your car reviews. You do a wonderful job.

[silverindigo]

Finally a reviewer that doesn’t just get in the car, slap it into sport mode and rip it to the red line.

In other words....an adult

[geft]

I agree bring back the amber turn signals. We love my wife’s XC90. Usually I get antsy to replace our cars every 3 years, but not with the XC90. It is an amazing vehicle.

[bikingmoments]

It’s amazing to see a 5-year model still fresh and elegant. Feels it’s never going to be ‘old’ and ‘outdated’, both interior and exterior.

[VNMOUS]

I'm going with Amber; ditch the red light, it makes it distinguish if they are breaking or they are signalling

[sinx.]

Still in love with my xc90 and still can't believe the whole design language is 5+ years old (if you count the entire design phase)

[christophersharon]

American here. Red. Excellent work Alex. Love that you do noise rating with decibels! That’s very important to me to buy a quite vehicle. Thanks!

[kr]

The U.S. needs to just mandate amber turn signals moving forward. The red turn signals are just awful.

[JBM]

I appreciate how you included the Toyota Highlander, Lincoln Aviator, and Mazda CX-9 in the Vehicle Size comparisons. Since I don't get into the luxury brands that much, having those mass-market and premium vehicles is very helpful to understand the comparative sizes. I've tested a Highlander and CX-9, so I now have a better frame of reference. Please continue this in your other luxury vehicle reviews.

[CarbonKS]

I have an XC90 T6 AWD and absolutely love it. It’s a smooth ride and has plenty of power.

[joshuaychung]

Volvo XC 90 all the way. It is by far the best looking SUV out there. I do admit that the new Genesis GV80 is really intriguing assuming you don't have a need for a hybrid drive train.

[cathygraham]

Just bought the XC90 T8. Super excited. It's absolutely beautiful. Drove all comparable vehicles and it was the winner. Great Review Liked the BMW X5 BUT run-flat tires getting only 15, 000 miles on them was a big negative.

[alexbkny]

Alex your reviews are best in the class!

[dshudson]

We just got this vehicle for my wife the T8, I have to admit him sort of crushing on it, its elegance and sophistication and I drive a King Ranch so that's pretty good compliment.

[sodeypd]

I love every time Alex calls out Audi on their fake exhausts

[NauticaloneEd]

Still so beautiful and fresh looking. Amazing design and overall quality! Do wish it had a 6 cylinder option though.

[alfreadjoshy]

Those days when Volvo pretty much used to make boxes on wheels are gone as now a days they make some of the nicest looking cars on the market and the XC90 is definitely one of them

[JazzedJohnson]

Alex always does a great, consistent review. 1) AMBER now AMBER forever—red means stop, amber means turn. 2) as an XC 60 owner, I think this design language is the most beautiful of any crossover on the road today 3) the infotainment system’s improved processing speed is an essential improvement 4) I almost bought a Tesla Y a week ago today, but those seats can’t touch Volvo’s comfort and interior materials, fit n finish feel like an air cooled VW compared to Volvo. The Tesla may still be the best operating auto-motion system available now, but let’s get some interior/exterior sophistication. CARS ARE FASCINATING

[takeontechnology]

This is the first vehicle we purchased in this class, R-Design and enhanced audio (B&W) and I couldn't be happier with the decision at 22K miles. I am 6'1" and am very comfortable. I recommend the air suspension although I am disappointed that the dealer lots only have the air suspension option on the highest of highest specked out model. The 2019 model we have air suspension really does improve the ride. My only complaint is the 4 cyl. turbo and supercharged is great but takes longer to spool up then I would wish if I try to hammer it in certain situations. While I read about quality control issues thankfully I haven't really encountered anything except one fuse issue with the air suspension which was a known issue and fixed under warranty at no cost. It is the most evocative interior I have sat it that was't pretentious and actually relaxing and the Bowers and Wilkins is second to none. The emergency braking is also excellent with pre-tensioning. Recommend 100%.

[jamespagonis]

We traded in our 2019 XC90 T6 for a new 2021 XC90 T8. All of your comments are spot on! We also have a brand new MB GLS 450 and although the infotainment is MUCH better in the MB the fit and finish of the overall build is better in the Volvo (in the hood and lift-gate areas). To us - The most noticeable difference between the T6 & T8 is the feeling of great adhesion to the road on curvy roads and the luxurious (quiet) experience when driving on electric only. Our MB has air suspension and a very solid & competent feel but the Volvo is comparable (and faster by 1 second 0-60). The T6 was great but the solid, heavier (but fast) feel of the T8 is very similar to the MB.