Volvo SUV Guide 2025–2026: All You Need to Know — XC & EX Lineups

Volvo’s SUV range has entered a bold new chapter. No longer just about XC models (XC40, XC60, XC90), the brand is now aggressively electrifying its fleet with the EX family: compact EVs (EX30, EX40), and its flagship three-row EV, the EX90. This guide (updated November 2025) gives a deep dive into specs, performance, pricing, and real-world factors, helping you choose the right Volvo SUV for your lifestyle — whether city daily driving, family hauling, or EV-first commuting.

What’s New for 2025–2026

• 800‑volt architecture for EX90: For the 2026 model year, Volvo upgraded the EX90 to an 800 V electrical system. This dramatically improves charging speed, allowing up to 155 miles of range in just 10 minutes on compatible DC fast chargers.
• More power and efficiency: The 800V system also brings efficiency gains and a performance bump: in the Twin Motor Performance EX90, output increases to 670 hp.
• New core computer & driver assist: Volvo is rolling out a new central computer in the EX90, improving safety, collision avoidance, and the driver-assist suite.
• Electrochromic panoramic roof: Available on EX90, letting you adjust glass transparency for privacy or glare control.
• Software updates for 2025 models: Owners of 2025 EX90 are eligible for a one-time core computer upgrade at a workshop, addressing earlier software bugs.

Volvo SUV Lineup — 2025 / 2026 Models Overview

Here’s a breakdown of Volvo’s SUV family today, including the legacy XC models and the new EV-first EX range.

EX Family (Electric-Only)

EX30

• Compact EV, city-focused
• In the U.S., the 2025 Twin Motor Performance starts at $44,900, with an estimated 0–60 mph sprint and a driving range of around 253 miles.
• The battery supports fast charging; fast-charge times are “just over 25 minutes” for a substantial portion of the battery.

EX40

• Slightly larger than EX30; several trims, including extended-range and twin motor.
• For 2025, Volvo lists EX40 trims (Core, Plus, Ultra) for the U.S. market: starting at $52,500 for the single motor Core.
• There is also a twin‑motor (AWD) Ultra option, indicating more powerful performance versions.

EX90

• Full-size, three-row electric SUV. Flagship of Volvo’s EV SUV range.
• Battery & Range: Volvo states a usable battery of 107 kWh and an EPA-estimated range up to 310 miles (depending on configuration).
• Charging: For earlier 400 V models, 10–80% DC charging takes around 30 minutes.
• Performance:
  • Twin Motor: 402 hp, 0–60 in 5.7 s
  • Twin Motor Performance: 510 hp, 0–60 in 4.7 s
• Cargo: 85.3 cu ft max (folded), 37.3 cu ft behind the second row (7-seater), or 36.9 cu ft (6-seater).
• Towing capacity: ~4,850 lb.
• New 800V Update (2026): Enables faster 10–80% charging (22 minutes claimed), boosted power, and an upgraded core computer.

XC Family (Hybrid / Gas / PHEV)

XC40

• Compact SUV, available in mild-hybrid and rechargeable (PHEV) versions.
• Price (USA): For 2025, different trims; e.g., B5 AWD Ultra at $49,300.
• Very suitable for city driving or small families; though EV EX40/EX30 may appeal more to EV-first buyers.

XC60

• Midsize SUV. Powertrains include a B5/B6 mild hybrid and a T8 plug-in hybrid.
• T8 PHEV offers 455 hp, very strong for performance + efficiency.
• Cargo capacity: 63.3 cu ft (with seats folded).
• Use case: great combination of luxury, efficiency, and versatility.

XC90

• Large, three-row SUV. Available in internal combustion and PHEV (T8) versions.
• The 2025 T8 plug-in hybrid produces 455 hp.
• XC90 B6 AWD (2025) makes ~295 hp, 0–60 ~6.8 s.
• Fuel economy: B5 gets ~22 mpg city / 27 highway, B6 slightly lower.
• Price (USA): 2025 T8 PHEV Core is $71,900.
• Warranty & maintenance: 4-year / 50,000-mile warranty and 3 years / 36,000 miles complimentary maintenance.

Safety, Technology & Driver‑Assist Features

• Volvo continues its leadership in safety, equipping SUVs like the XC and EX models with Pilot Assist, City Safety, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
• With the EX90’s 2026 update, the new core computer enhances collision-avoidance systems and adds features such as Emergency Stop Assist.
• Battery pre-conditioning is supported in the EX90 — if you navigate to a charging station, the car can prepare the battery temperature to maximize charging speed.
• Range Assistant in the EX90 helps drivers optimize how they drive to maximize range.

Pros & Cons: Which Volvo SUV Is Right for You

Model	Pros	Cons / Considerations
EX30	Affordable EV entry, compact size, fast charging (for its class), sporty performance in Twin Motor version	Limited cargo space; not ideal for large families; smaller battery than larger EVs
EX40	EV with more space than EX30, AWD option, good range, versatile trims	Still not as roomy as XC60/XC90; depends on charger availability for fast charging
EX90	Full-size EV, three-row seating, fast charging (especially 800V version), high towing capacity, future-proof architecture	Big size, higher price, earlier software issues (but addressed), 2025 vs 2026 differences (check which spec you’re getting)
XC40 / XC60 (Hybrid)	Familiar ICE + hybrid tech, resale value, low-range EV worry, easier for buyers used to petrol	Fuel costs, lower EV-like efficiency versus pure EV, might be “transition” rather than long-term EV solution
XC90 (Hybrid)	Spacious, luxurious, PHEV means electric + combustion flexibility	Premium cost, weight, range on EV mode limited, complex maintenance relative to pure EV or ICE car

Real-World Considerations & Known Issues

• EX90 Software Glitches: Some early 2025 EX90 owners reported issues like non-responsive infotainment, climate control troubles, and driver-assist errors. Volvo is addressing these via OTA updates and a core-computer hardware upgrade.
• Charging Realities: While Volvo claims very fast charging with the 800V system, real-world speeds depend on charger infrastructure. Actual charging rates vary, and efficiency depends strongly on charge station capability.
• Port Compatibility: Some buyers have noted that current EX90 models do not use the newer Tesla-style NACS port; CCS remains standard in many markets.
• Used / Long-Term Value: As with all EVs, consider how battery degradation, software support, and infrastructure will affect value. For hybrid XC models, consider future PHEV developments.

Which Volvo SUV Should You Buy — Use-Case Recommendations

1. Urban Commuter / First EV → Go for EX30 or EX40 Single Motor: compact size, lower cost EV, efficient for daily driving.
2. Performance + EV Fun → EX30 Twin Motor Performance offers strong acceleration and good EV range, ideal if you want a “fun but practical” EV.
3. Family SUV / Daily Driver Without Range Anxiety → XC60 (PHEV) gives you daily EV-like driving plus flexibility for long trips; XC90 (PHEV) if you need three rows.
4. Premium EV, Long-Range, People Mover → EX90: for three-row EV living, long-haul trips, or a flagship EV experience. If buying 2026 model, you’ll benefit from 800V charging and improved tech.
5. Towing / Long Trips Occasional Use → EX90 has strong towing capability; but if cost / charging infrastructure is a concern, hybrid XC90 or XC60 may be better.

FAQs

Conclusion

Volvo is no longer just a legacy automaker with premium SUVs; it’s fully embracing its electric future. The EX family (especially EX90) is a game-changer — not just for EV range, but for how Volvo blends safety, performance, and practicality. If you’re shopping for a Volvo SUV now, think not only about what you need today (space, budget, range), but also where EV infrastructure and Volvo’s software roadmap are headed.

By including both hybrid XC models and next-gen EV EX models, this guide gives you a full view of Volvo’s SUV future. Whether you’re in it for sustainability, family comfort, or tech-forward driving, there’s likely a Volvo SUV that fits your needs in 2025–2026.