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2020 Volvo XC90 Pros vs Cons

Why Buy a 2020 Volvo XC90?
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

Are You Considering a 2020 Volvo XC90? Here Are Some Reasons For and Against

It's not uncommon in 2020 to see vehicles loaded with modern features, features that could be enjoyed if one could only figure out how to navigate the knobs, switches and touchscreens. The 2020 Volvo XC90 certainly charms passengers with its modern design elements, but the simplistic crisp of everything allows for collaboration in the cabin.
The interior is simple yet audacious in its attributes that define luxury. It's not too shabby on the road either. Safety features add to the elegant feel. And while certainly not a perfect three-row SUV, the XC90 deserves some recognition. The makers at Volvo drive into 2020 with some new elements to introduce to consumers around the world.

What's New for 2020?

Aesthetic is always important, especially when one wants to rank in a luxury category. The Scandinavian automobile manufacturer updates the exterior of the 2020 model with a new grille, front bumper and remodeled wheels. Drivers will also see the 2020 Volvo XC90 come standard with a 12.3-inch gauge cluster. Other new features vary depending on the trim level.
The makers revised the suspension in the 2020 model to make the vehicle smoother on the road. The R-Design and Inscription trim models come standard with front parking sensors. No more accidentally bumping into a parked car at the grocery store.

Momentum Models can now be customized with a fresh Black Ash wood trim finish, while the R-Design comes with nappa leather upholstery. T6 and T8 Momentum and Inscription Models see a six-seat option introduced for 2020. The T8 hybrid plug-in model comes with a larger battery, meaning an increased EV range.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2020 Volvo XC90 – The Pros

1. Safety is Integral

Those in Gothenberg brand their Swedish-made automobiles in a way that sees safety as something that should be enjoyed by all who drive a Volvo. The 2020 Volvo XC90 receives high marks in the areas of safety.
A Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in 2019, the XC90 continues the trend in 2020. It earned a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, allowing the vehicle to appeal to many who prioritize safety in a vehicle. Volvo has long been committed to safety. It shows in the safety ratings of the XC90.

2. Handling Comes Natural in the XC90

Nothing perturbs drivers behind the wheel of an automobile more than a vehicle that has wanky handling. Handling that can't be trusted to perform isn't wanted. The XC90 handles like a champion. Handling like this allows the driver to move freely on the road, confidently navigating in all sorts of directions. Most road situations are handled with a breeze behind the wheel of this Volvo.

3. A Charming Cabin Cultivates Luxury

There is no reason to avoid the fact that the interior of the XC90 is a stroke of genius. The materials are of fine quality, and the design is easy on the eyes. Steve Jobs would be impressed by Volvo's ability to be simplistic about the interior approach while still maximizing beauty with the concept.
The third-row doesn't have a great deal of legroom, so one will want to avoid sending the tallest passengers to sit in the third row. The approach from the Swedish engineers works with the 2020 Volvo XC90 as the interior design gives a refreshing alternative to what one has becomes used to in modern SUVs in 2020. It's a charming cabin that one appreciates while navigating the open road.

4. An Exterior That Isn't Wasted

Often an impeccable interior can be wasted through an ugly exterior. Thankfully, those manufacturing the XC90 get the exterior right with the 2020 offering. The aforementioned changes in the 2020 design offer a refreshed and polished look. One recognizes this vehicle when they see it on the roads. Its refined look makes sure of that.

5. Go Hybrid With the Volvo XC90

It's a pleasant feeling getting behind the wheel of this Volvo and noticing that all of the comforts are behind powered by electricity alone. The T8 plug-in version of the vehicle will be supported by electricity. The EPA has not yet rated the range of the enhanced battery pack for the 2020 XC90 at the time of this writing, but it is expected to build upon the performance of the 2019 model.

6. Space Amongst the Rows

Midsize SUVs don't often boast of having space in the second or even third row of the cabin; the XC90 breaks the standard. It is a surprisingly roomy luxury SUV with plenty of space to dream or simply enjoy the comfortable ride. It is like a cavernous cave, but much more comfortable. Space appeals to those with a family or who need to regularly transport people.

7. Several Safety Features Come Standard

The Volvo receives sublime crash test scores from top organizations across the country, but every driver hopes that it never comes to a collision. The best safety technology is available in the 2020 Volvo XC90. Even better, loads of safety features come standard in this Volvo.
It can sometimes be frustrating to have to shell out additional money just to get some safety features. Availability is nice, but consumers are drawn to vehicles that have several safety features standard within the ride. This is especially true of the XC90. Forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning all come standard in the SUV. This is an especially appealing display.

8. Intuitive Operation

The infotainment center is strategically placed to offer a subtle reminder of the capabilities. The nine-inch touchscreen looks much like a tablet and comes standard in all trims. Each model will come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities.

9. Great for a Road Trip or Commute to Work

The wonderful thing about a luxury midsize SUV such as the 2020 Volvo XC90 is that it is equally comfortable on a road trip or 30-minute commute to work. The comfortable handling allows for wonderful handling on highway or city streets; the spacious interior allows for a comfortable ride from Portland to Los Angeles or anywhere the road decides to lead a person.

10. 2020 Improves on Brilliance

The XC90 was a handsome vehicle before the 2020 version came out; those worried that the 2020 Volvo XC90 wasn't going to improve upon the design can rest easy. From a heightened exterior display to a larger battery pack on the hybrid version, drivers can be pleased with the XC90. It's a luxury vehicle worth plenty of recognition. The vehicle isn't without blemish, and there are some reasons automobile consumers might not want to buy a 2020 Volvo XC90.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2020 Volvo XC90 – The Cons

1. Fuel Economy Doesn't Impress

One can expect the Volvo XC90 to receive a similar MPG to its rivals when equipped with a turbocharged engine. Generally speaking, the XC90 won't be very inspiring for those looking for a vehicle that ranks extremely high in this category. What the vehicle offers in style and comfort, it lacks in MPG.

2. Snug At Times

It isn't like trying to fit into a suitcase. Frankly, the 2020 Volvo XC90 makes it easy to slide into the third row of seats within the cabin. The headroom is fine, but it can get a bit cramped in the third row when it comes to space for the legs. Passengers may get anxious for long periods in the third row, so they may want to explore other options for longer rides.

3. Lack of USB Ports

The 2020 Volvo XC90 may be comfortable enough for long road trips, but that doesn't mean passengers are going to be entirely happy. The minimalistic approach within the XC90 is bold for many reasons. It misses the mark with its lack of USB ports. Included in the whole cabin are two, both located in the front of the vehicle. This leaves passengers in the second and third rows without a place to charge.

How it Stacks Up to the Competition

A prudent consumer is going to compare vehicle makes and models to find the perfect ride for himself or herself. This is true for the midsize luxury vehicle as it is a pickup truck. The Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 are similar in the sense that they offer a wide variety of safety features that come standard. The Q7 has an infotainment system that is a bit easier to use compared to the XC90, but the vehicles remain rather close in the luxury midsize SUV rankings.
The Acura MDX isn't as elegant and chic, but its power in the engine surpasses that of the 2020 Volvo XC90. The Volvo has a more complete infotainment system and feels like a more enhanced experience. The third row of the MDX is a bit roomier than the XC90.
A consumer also has the option of going with the smaller XC60 from Volvo. It does away with the third-row seats while still offering all of the luxuries that the larger XC90 does.

Conclusion

The 2020 Volvo XC90 makes a point to offer exceptional coverage in the two areas of luxury and safety. This vehicle fits the bill in both categories. Safety is always a plus on the roads across America. One doesn't attend their son's play or daughter's ball game if a certain safety feature doesn't alert them of a potentially hazardous situation. The Volvo XC90 is a good midsize SUV; it's a vehicle full of class and charm that attracts consumers from across the country.
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