2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge profile
Photo: Auto123
• Auto123 reviews the 2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge. Here’s what you need to know.
• Our detailed evaluation of key performance, features and functions.
The 2023 Volvo XC90, a three-row luxury SUV, is known for its elegant design, comfortable interior and, above all, the safety excellence associated with the Volvo brand.
Base models feature a mild hybrid powertrain based on the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The plug-in hybrid version of the XC90 Recharge is more expensive, but offers decent range in all-electric mode, and is the most powerful and most convenient XC90 model for road trips.
While the model doesn’t rival some of the sportier models from BMW and Mercedes in terms of driving dynamics, there are plenty of interesting features to enjoy in Volvo’s flagship SUV.
The XC90 still has distinctive, elegant styling and modern technology that hides its age well, even though its last complete redesign was eight years ago.
However, if you are looking for a fully electric car, you will have to be patient. The XC90’s electric successor, the EX90, was recently revealed and is scheduled to hit the market in early 2024. The electric SUV features an all-new design and more safety technologies than the model it is set to replace.
Volvo XC90 2023 Recharge wheel
Photo: Auto123
What’s new in the Volvo XC90 2023?
The Volvo XC90 now offers mild-hybrid engines with an integrated 48-volt battery and starter/generator added to the existing 2.0-liter engines. The new B6 small hybrid engines replace the T6 engines of previous years. Neither the T5 nor B5 will be offered in 2023.
The XC90 Recharge is a plug-in hybrid option.
Once again, we find a Google-based entertainment software, which integrates Google Maps, Google Play and Google Assistant voice control. With mixed results, it has to be said. Fortunately, Apple CarPlay is also available – with a wired connection.
Finally, the trim levels have been reorganized into Core, Plus, and Ultimate.
The XC90 Recharge AWD Ultimate, the model we drove, can travel 30 to 50 kilometers in the city on pure electric power. We already tested the Recharge version last year, and this year we wanted to focus on the engine’s consumption in hybrid mode when not plugged in.
Volvo XC90 Recharge 2023 in gray
Photo: Auto123
The exterior of the Volvo XC90 2023
The Volvo XC90 is hard to miss. The curves of the hood extend along the sides of the car to create a flowing line, while the aluminum-alloy wheels add sophisticated style. The wheels on our Recharge model were 21 inches, and in our opinion, these larger wheels blend well with the overall look of the car. However, the design of the wheels themselves left us questionable. A matter of taste.
The brand’s iconic chrome grille and hammer-shaped Thor daytime running lights add a touch of solidity. LED taillights complete the modern, distinctive look common to all Volvos. Finally, our Recharge model is easily recognizable by the charging slot on the left front fender and the B8 logo on the rear of the vehicle.
Strong points
- Clean design
- General shape
Interior design of the 2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge
Photo: Auto123
The interior of the Volvo XC90 2023
Inside the XC90, the quality of materials is appreciated immediately. The leather seats are heated, with several power settings for driver and passenger. Our version also has massaging front seats. At $1,700, these products aren’t expensive, but they’re not very effective either.
The XC90 is equipped with an uncluttered dashboard. The digital displays on the driver display behind the steering wheel and on the 9-inch vertical information screen are easy to read. Wooden inlays around the dashboard, center console and door trim also support this feeling of luxury and purity.
In the back, the rear seats could offer a little more space. However, this row can be divided into three, with the ability to slide and recline individually to increase passenger comfort.
The third row is not suitable for people taller than 5’9″ or so. It’s suitable for short trips, but if you’re looking for a true 7-seater, look no further than the competition; There are competitors that offer more in the second and third rows.
Finally the torso. With all seats up, the luggage area offers 447 litres. With the third row folded, 1,183 litres are available. With both seats folded down, there is 2,427 liters of space available on board this SUV.
Strong points
- Material
- Finishing quality
Weaknesses
- Streamlined interior
- Rear seats are a little cramped
Multimedia screen for the 2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge
Photo: Auto123
Safety and technology in the 2023 Volvo XC90
Google’s infotainment system is installed in all Volvo models, replacing the previous Sensus software. It offers a familiar user interface with features like Google Maps and Google Assistant voice control.
The climate system controls are integrated into the touchscreen, so there are no longer physical buttons for them. In fact there are hardly any of these features, except for a large button below the center screen for volume. But if you want to change the temperature or activate the heated seats or steering wheel, a three-step process takes place on the screen.
The problem isn’t the number of steps you have to take to activate an item, but the fact that you have to take your eyes off the road to access these functions. There is a voice command to perform the same task, but after several attempts the results were inconclusive.
The Google interface, once connected to your account and phone, is supposed to make life easier by ensuring better connectivity between you, your phone, and your car. This infotainment system from Google greatly improves the driving experience, especially with natural voice control and live software updates. Overall, Google’s infotainment system is a welcome addition to Volvo’s interiors.
On the safety front, you’ll find a host of safety features inside the XC90, including Pilot Assist, which offers a level of semi-autonomous driving, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, blind spot warning, cross traffic alert, and automatic warning. Emergency braking for pedestrians.
An air filtration system is also available. This prevents up to 95 percent of harmful fine particles (PM 2.5) from entering the cabin.
Volvo XC90 Recharge 2023 in gray
Photo: Auto123
Driving the 2023 Volvo XC90
All XC90s are equipped with a turbocharged I4 engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Our Recharge version has an electric motor backing up the engine, bringing total power to 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. The other engine on offer, found in the B6, develops 295 hp.
The Recharge version is the most powerful of the bunch, but it’s not exactly a beast either. Electrically assisted power management is very smooth and barely perceptible.
The XC90 drives very well, the steering is light and the vehicle absorbs all road imperfections. Naturally, it is aided by air suspension, which is not standard but optional. However, the car’s driving remains soft and far from the stiffness of German models.
As for fuel consumption, we know that the electric range has been improved slightly, as we have already confirmed in another version of the B8. In this test, we wanted to check the average consumption without plugging it in. During our week, we covered 403 kilometres, most of it in the suburbs. Final consumption was 10.3 l/100 km. This is good for a large car, but we think it could be better. The test should be repeated in the summer, away from temperatures hovering around the freezing point.
Strong points
- Comprehensive joint force
- Smooth and comfortable ride
Introduction 2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge
Photo: Auto123
The last word
Our XC90 is far from unpleasant to drive. It is a very good car, drives well and is very comfortable and safe. It is also very expensive! The price of our equipped tester was close to $100,000. That’s a lot for an all-electric model with a short electric range and high average fuel consumption.
We highly recommend choosing the base model, which offers all the comfort, safety and driving pleasure a Volvo can offer, at an almost affordable price.
Otherwise, drivers looking for an all-electric option are eagerly awaiting the XC90’s electric successor, the Volvo EX90. This version will provide drivers with a more environmentally friendly and efficient option for their daily driving.
Here are some of your questions about the 2023 Volvo XC90:
How long does it take to recharge the battery in a Volvo XC90 Recharge?
Battery recharging time depends on a number of factors, but in general, using a standard 110V household outlet, the time to fully recharge the battery can take about 8 hours. With a 240V Level 2 station, recharging time can be reduced to approximately 2.5 hours.
Volvo XC90 2023 specifications
The front grille of the 2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge
Photo: Auto123
Volvo XC90 Recharge competitors
Test conditions
- Weather conditions: early spring without snow
- Road type: Suburban, i.e. boulevards, some highways and smaller streets
- Speed: Mostly on roads with speeds between 60 and 70 km/h
- Test duration: one week and 403 km
2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge rear end
Photo: Auto123
Experts
Consumers
Pictures of Volvo XC90 2023
