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Volvo XC90: I and II generations, engines and trims
The Volvo XC90 is a large, premium seven-seater SUV, the biggest Volvo model and the choice for families who value safety and comfort. We look at the I (2002–2014) and II (from 2015) generations: how they differ, which engines are most popular, how the trims vary and what to check when buying used.
XC90 in brief
The first XC90 was introduced in 2002 and became Volvo’s first SUV. It quickly gained popularity for its safety, comfort and three rows of seats — most XC90s are seven-seaters, with the third row suitable for kids or shorter trips.
The second generation, launched in 2014, was the first Volvo model on the new SPA platform and kicked off the current Volvo design direction with 'Thor's Hammer' LED daytime running lights. Most XC90s come with all-wheel drive (AWD) and an automatic transmission.
I and II generations — how they differ
The first generation (2002–2014) was refreshed in 2006: revised styling, interior details and some engines. Today, it’s a cost-effective way to get a large, safe seven-seater, but most cars have high mileage, so the key is the technical condition and service history.
The second generation (from 2015) is a completely new car: a modern Scandinavian-style interior with a vertical touchscreen, plenty of driver-assistance systems (e.g., Pilot Assist) and just four-cylinder 2.0-litre engines, including the plug-in hybrid T8.
The 2019–2020 facelift brought mild-hybrids (B5, B6) and new safety features, while the latest models received an updated infotainment system. The 2024 XC90 gets another refresh — with a new front end and a larger screen.
Engines and transmissions
In the first generation, the dominant engine is the five-cylinder 2.4-litre diesel D5 (around 163–200hp). Among the petrol options, you'll find the five-cylinder 2.5T, six-cylinder T6 and 3.2-litre, plus the rare V8 (around 315hp). Most cars come with the automatic Geartronic transmission.
In the second generation, all engines are 2.0-litre four-cylinders: diesels D4 (around 190hp) and D5 (around 225–235hp), petrols T5 and T6, and later, mild-hybrids B5 and B6. The plug-in hybrid T8 offers around 390–455hp, and the newer version (from around 2022) has a larger battery and longer electric range.
Second-gen XC90s are only available with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Diesel engines are no longer offered in the latest models, so newer cars come with petrol mild-hybrids and the T8.
What to check when buying a used XC90
In the first-gen cars, early T6 models with the four-speed automatic were known for transmission issues. On D5 diesels, check the EGR valve, intake manifold, diesel particulate filter (DPF) and timing belt change history, and on all-wheel-drive models, look for signs of wear and whether the centre differential has been serviced.
Second time around, if the car has air suspension, check that it doesn't sag when parked and that there are no error messages. Ensure the infotainment system works smoothly and is up to date, and in diesels, that there are no AdBlue or DPF issues.
In the case of the T8 hybrid, test the charging and electric-only driving, and ask about the battery condition. Due to the heavy weight, brake discs and tyres will wear faster, so always check the ride according to the service and maintenance records.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most commonly found trim levels in Europe.
Kinetic
First generationThe base trim of the first generation, which already comes with a fair amount of equipment.
- Light-alloy wheels
- Often — automatic climate control
- Fabric or combination seat upholstery
Momentum
First and second generationThe most popular choice — a good balance of price and equipment.
- Often — leather interior
- Often — parking sensors and navigation
- Second generation — LED headlights and vertical touchscreen
Summum
First generationThe top-of-the-range first-generation trim with plenty of comfort equipment.
- A single-tone cabin, often with electrically adjustable seats
- Often with xenon headlights
- Larger wheels and more comfort features
R-Design
First and second generationSporty-looking version.
- Sport bumpers and unique grilles
- Larger wheels
- Sport seats and darker cabin trim
Inscription
Second generationThe most luxurious standard trim for the second generation.
- Premium leather cabin and wood trim
- More chrome details
- Often with ventilated seats and a high-end sound system
Plus / Ultimate
Second generation, roughly from 2022New trim naming convention for the latest XC90s
- Plus — the generously equipped base model
- Ultimate — top spec
- Often — different exterior trim levels (light or dark)
Second-gen spec comparison
| Momentum | Inscription | R-Design | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For the sensible family buyer | Luxury and comfort | Sporty looks |
| Alloy wheels (most often) | 18–19 inch | 19–20 inch | 20–21 inch |
| Styling | Standard | More chrome details | Sport bumpers, dark details |
| Interior | Often leather, standard trim | Luxury leather, wood trim | Sport seats, dark trim |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | High-end | High-end |
For most buyers, the best choice is a second-gen Momentum or Inscription with a D5 or B5 engine. The R-Design is worth considering for its looks, while the T8 is only if you can regularly charge it.
Pros
- A very safe and comfortable family car
- Seven seats and a large boot
- A high-quality, quiet Scandinavian-style interior
- Most cars come with all-wheel drive
Cons
- Expensive maintenance and repairs, especially for the air suspension
- High fuel consumption with petrol engines
- First-gen cars are already old and often have high mileage
Frequently asked questions
Which XC90 generation is best to buy used?
For many buyers, the second generation is the best choice – it's much safer, more modern, and more economical. The first generation is cheaper and still comfortable, but due to its age and mileage, maintenance can be expensive, so it's only worth buying with a clear service history.
Is the 2.0-litre engine enough for such a large car?
Yes. The second-gen XC90 engines come with turbochargers, and the more powerful versions have around 235–300hp or more, so there's plenty of dynamism for daily driving and trips with a full car. For towing heavy trailers, the diesel D5 or B5 are the most convenient, as they have a higher torque.
Is it worth buying the XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid?
It is, if you can regularly charge the car and often drive short distances. Otherwise, the T8's running costs could be higher than a diesel or mild hybrid, and repairing the hybrid system can be expensive.
Are all XC90s seven-seaters?
Most XC90s have three rows of seats and seven seats, but there are also five-seater versions. Before buying, check the registration documents to see how many seats are listed.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
