2021 Volvo XC90 Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

In recent years SUVs have made their way into the auto marketplace as a highly desirable vehicle model. Providing transportation for mid-size families and consumers who enjoy taking their friends along for the ride, many automakers have steered their vision into the field of luxury SUVs. These vehicles are the ones that get families where they need to go every day, so running errands and transporting children might as well be done in style.

The Volvo XC90 is a top choice in the luxury SUV segment. It offers three rows of seating, with enough capacity for up to seven passengers, carry cargo without compromise, and handle well in varying road conditions. Still in its second generation that began in 2015, the XC90 has enhanced its powertrain options, granulized its trim level offerings, and upgraded its feature attributes. The 2021 Volvo XC90 is a great family vehicle that is also upscale and modern.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 is available in three trim levels that range from the base Momentum to the sporty R-Design to the upscale Inscription. While these trim levels are uniform across all of Volvo's models, the 2021 XC90 uses these options to its fullest advantage. Offering three different powertrain setups, the T5, T6, and Recharge, to complement each trim level, the 2021 Volvo XC90 is impressive, to say the least.

The guide below helps you evaluate the key differentiation between the trim levels of the 2021 Volvo XC90 to help you decide on the perfect XC90 setup for each buyer and their needs.

Compare the 2021 Volvo XC90 Momentum vs R-Design Trim Levels. What is the Difference?

Apart from other similar entry-level vehicles, the 2021 Volvo XC90's Momentum incorporates a luxury look and setup into its base-level design. From the very beginning, buyers gain access to a plethora of standard safety features and tech amenities that make driving an XC90 safer and more fun. In fact, most buyers will find that the XC90 Momentum is equipped with all the base features they could want, and more. Whether there is interest in standard amenities, like parking sensors or full LED headlights, or upgrades, such as a plug-in hybrid powertrain or premium audio system, buyers can find it all in the 2021 Volvo XC90 Momentum trim level.

All XC90 models are produced with standard forward collision warning, automatic braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control that aide in the reduction of collision prevalence when operating this vehicle. Automating these features makes it easy for drivers to rely on their vehicle to step in when they are otherwise distracted or limited on reaction time. Additional inclusions are active blind spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert capabilities.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 Momentum is available with T5 or T6 drivetrains, but this model does not gain access to the plug-in hybrid Recharge option. Well-equipped with upscale amenities and tech-savvy options, the Momentum is budget-friendly and assertive. The number and variety of standard and available features on this model is praiseworthy. All-wheel drive heated front seats, heated windshield washer nozzles, and a hands-free liftgate prove just how committed to convenience and comfort the 2021 Volvo XC90 Momentum is. Even with its base model labeling, this SUV goes above and beyond what consumers expect in a new base model vehicle.

The R-Design has a name that stands out, among others. It is virtually a glorified version of the Momentum with the ability to be paired with any of the three available XC90 drivetrain options. Featuring black trim, Nappa leather upholstery, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a navigation system, this XC90 plays to a sportier consumer model.

The XC90 R-Design has a bench seat in the second row, whereas the Momentum and Inscription models offers a dual captain's seat second-row layout. It can be customized by adding adaptive air suspension, an enhanced Bowers & Wilkins audio system, and a self-parking feature. The R-Design can also be paired with a T5, T6, or Recharge drivetrain, which causes it to fluctuate in price based on the chosen equipment.

Generally, the R-Design is more equipped, advanced, and athletic than the Momentum. It comes equipped with a glossy black grille that stands out, the potential to add Polestar Optimization for tuning purposes, and sporty paddle shifters tucked away under the steering wheel. Not only does it allow for many upgrade options, but it also include the wide array of underlying standard features that its Momentum relative offers.

Power seats, adjustable thigh bolsters, and sunshades for the rear side windows are also additions that buyers find useful in the 2021 Volvo XC90 R-Design model. These features play into this model's conviction for passenger comfort and interior enhancement enthusiasm. Priced for a mid- to high-range luxury SUV, the Volvo XC90 R-Design is a step above competitors in every facet.

Compare the 2021 Volvo XC90 R-Design vs Inscription Trims. What is the Difference?

While the R-Design and Inscription trim levels match each other in standard features, the Inscription takes it up a notch with a mixture of speed- and comfort-enhancing amenities. Both models take a minimalist approach to interior design that is complemented by a laid-back style and simplistic, luxury elements. Those who go for the Inscription model, however, can dress it up a bit with a distinctive Inscription trim offering and Orrefors Crystal shift knob that helps this trim stand out. Bringing along a more robust and overall larger variety of feature offerings, the XC90 Inscription takes a new approach toward a distinguished appearance.

Though the XC90 R-Design offers any of the drivetrain setups this SUV must choose from, the Inscription dials in its exclusivity by offering only the two top tier trims of the T6 and the Recharge. It adds in another option, as well, in its Recharge Inscription Expression that relies on a PHEV layout. Beginning at a steeper cost, the Inscription is a model that goes above and beyond competitors in terms of interior refinement and upgrade availability.

The Inscription makes the ride a little more comfortable for passengers by upgrading to standard Nappa leather upholstery or a Tailored Wool Blend material option. Complete with a gearshift knob made of crystal and massaging front seats, riding in the Inscription is an experience.

The XC90 Inscription is also one of two models that offers captain's chairs in the second row, making third-row access more convenient and functional. This brings the seating capacity down from seven passengers to a six-passenger limit. Heated rear seats, along with a heated steering wheel and wiper blades are welcome changes in the Inscription model. Booster cushions in the second row, a revamped head-up display, and camera system comprised of 360-degree angles also amp up the exclusivity of this model in a way that is functional for owners.

The second-row captain's chairs, along with safety enhancements and interior feature upgrades make up the main reasons why buyers prefer to invest in this trim level option for their new 2021 Volvo XC90 purchase. It creates an upscale feeling with a price tag to match that many buyers feel is justified in the design and elements the Inscription trim level has to offer.

Complete with a Recharge plug-hybrid variant engine setup, the Inscription sets itself apart from the crowd with features that are environmentally conscious, yet modern. Buyers who invest in an XC90 with a Recharge model may even qualify for regional or state tax credits, due to their environmentally friendly automotive choice. While this certainly is not the sole reason one needs for choosing an Inscription model, it is a concept to keep in mind for future reference.

Which Trim to Choose?

The Volvo XC90 offers just a few trim level options to choose from, each of which caters to the needs of a distinctively different class of clients. While upscale and luxurious, each of these trim levels beholds features that are useful to buyers with different lifestyles and price point preferences. Though the base Momentum has everything you need, athletic-minded buyers would find better value in the R-design trim level. Better yet, the upscale amenities of the classy Inscription will fit into a lifestyle that is filled with prestige.

The high-end model of the XC90 lineup is ripe with features that will satisfy customers who have this specific kind of taste in vehicles. With each model, from the Momentum to the Inscription, serving their client-base well, consumers can be assured their needs will be made in the respective trim level they select. Including high-end finishes and features that just get enhanced as the trim level advances, any model of the 2021 Volvo XC90 is commendable for the intricacy and detail the automaker puts into this SUV.

If you are a buyer who is content with the basic amenities of a luxury SUV and are in search of an economical price point within this category, the 2021 Volvo XC90 Inscription is a good option. It offers a wide array of standard features that are impressive for a base model SUV. Including everything buyers need, and more, for a safe and comfortable ride, the Inscription is a great entry-level upscale SUV.

For those who enjoy a bit more athleticism, the 2021 Volvo XC90 R-Design may fit your style a bit better. With black attributes and trim, additional safety features, and road-worthy technology, buyers get a bit more in the R-Design that gives it a bolder and more sophisticated feel. It also improves upon the underlying comfort and convenience features that the Inscription laid out before it.

Yet, still, the Momentum rises above all other trim levels as the over-achiever of the XC90 trim level options. Complete with upscale interior amenities, like wool or leather seating with a crystal gearshift, you can feel the class exuding from the interior of this SUV. Nothing is left to the wayside in the design of this luxury SUV. From the front to the rear and inside out, the 2021 Volvo XC90 Momentum is the vision of elegance and poise in an automotive shell. Buyers who are not as concerned about price as they are about the features they gain access to and the look of their vehicle will find this SUV to be the top option.

Regardless of the trim level that is selected, the 2021 Volvo XC90 is more than one could ask for in a luxury SUV package. It incorporates good looks, innovative technology, and inherent safety features in its very nature. Even the lowest Momentum trim level is indicative of these inclusions and upgrade options. The R-Design and Inscription cater to a more specific type of client, which is ideal for those who enjoy standing out, among others. The 2021 Volvo XC90 seeks to make driving an experience, and it does so by going where most other SUVs do not dare to.