Volvo SUVs are attractive and well-rounded options based solely on their roomy and refined accommodations, premium amenities, and ample practicality. However, when you also take into account their satisfying performance and the automakers signature Scandinavian design and craftsmanship, you get some of the most compelling models on the road. While the Volvo XC60 and XC90 have similar styling and features, each offers a unique experience suited to different specifications. To help you determine the right for your needs and preferences, here's a quick look at a few of their distinguishing attributes.

Volvo XC60 vs. XC90: Size and Accommodations

Volvo XC60

  • Seats: 5
  • Dimensions (L x W x H - inches): 185.4 x 78.7 x 65.4
  • Headroom (front/rear - inches): 38 / 38
  • Legroom (front/rear - inches): 41.5 / 38
  • Max Cargo Capacity (cubic feet): 63.3

Volvo XC90

  • Seats: 6 – 7
  • Dimensions (L x W x H - inches): 195 x 79.1 x 69.9
  • Headroom (1st/2nd/3rd row - inches): 38.9 / 38.5 / 36.3
  • Legroom (1st/2nd/3rd row - inches): 40.9 / 37 / 31.9
  • Max Cargo Capacity (cubic feet): 85.7

The most apparent distinction between these two SUVs is their size. The Volvo XC60 is part of the compact crossover class and is ideal for shoppers seeking luxury and versatility while retaining city-friendly maneuverability. It has good headroom and legroom for all passengers, reserving 22.4 cubic feet for cargo behind the second row. When your Eatontown errands require more storage, you can fold the rear seats to reveal 63.3 cubic feet.

Do you need extra space and seatbelts for your larger family? The Volvo XC90 is a midsize SUV with room for seven passengers (or six with second-row captain's chairs). Folding the rear seats expands cargo capacity from 16 to 42 cubic feet behind the second row and 85.7 cubic feet behind the first.

Volvo XC60 vs. XC90: Performance and Efficiency

The Volvo XC60 and XC90 both come standard with the B5 powertrain, a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine (247 horsepower/258 pound-feet of torque) paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. However, the Volvo XC90 is also available with a B6 upgrade, which adds a supercharger to the mix (295 hp/310 lb-ft).

  • Volvo XC60 B5: EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined (23 city/30 high-way)1

  • Volvo XC90 B5: EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined (23 city/30 high-way)1

  • Volvo XC90 B6: EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined (20 city/26 high-way)1

Volvo XC60 vs. XC90: Electrification

Are you seeking something more potent or efficient for your daily drives? How about both? The Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC90 each offer a plug-in hybrid variant, which adds two electric motors to the B6 powertrain, resulting in a combined 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. An 18.8-kWh battery enables pure-electric driving for an estimated 35 miles in the XC60 PHEV and 32 miles in the XC90 PHEV, making them excellent options for experiencing EV driving without worrying about range anxiety.

Volvo XC60 vs. XC90: Features

The Volvo XC60 and XC90 are both generously equipped across three primary trim levels. Shared standard amenities include a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, a 9-inch touchscreen with Google built-in infotainment, and a fully digital instrument cluster. Plus, both models have a full suite of IntelliSafe driver aids in their Core (base) model. However, there are a few differences in feature ability. Here's a quick look at a few highlights:

  • The Volvo XC60 has standard 18-inch wheels, while the XC90 has standard 20-inch wheels.

  • The Volvo XC90 Core includes Adaptive Cruise Control and Pilot Assist, while the XC60 reserves these driver aids for the second-tier "Plus" trim.

  • The available Bowers & Wilkins high-end audio system has 15 speakers in the Volvo XC60 and 19 in the XC90.

  • The Volvo XC60 has a standard two-zone climate system, while the XC90's base trim has four-zone automatic climate control (available in the XC60 Ultra).

Test-Drive New Volvo Luxury SUVs near Rumson and Long Branch

Reach out to Red Bank Volvo Cars for more information regarding new and upcoming Volvo models, including available configuration options, financing offers, and reservation opportunities. Are you ready to experience Volvo's premium accommodations, amenities, and performance firsthand? We invite you to schedule a test drive or stop by our Red Bank dealership at your convenience. We'll be happy to show you around.

1Based on EPA estimates for the 2025 model year. The listed figures are for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary depending on operating conditions, vehicle maintenance, driving habits, and other factors.