Volvo XC60 vs Volvo XC90: Used Car Comparison

Volvo are renowned for their safety, so it comes as no surprise that their SUVs make great family cars bringing peace of mind to owners. It also helps that they are rather understated and sophisticated adding to their desirability.

Like many manufacturers, they offer a range of different sized SUVs. Here we are taking a look at their medium-sized SUV, the XC60, and pitching it against the largest SUV they offer in the XC90.

Is it a case of bigger is better, or is there more to it? This article will explore the pair head to head allowing you to make the right decision if you're looking at buying a used Volvo SUV.

Contents

• Introduction and Design
• Versions and Performance
• Interior and Technology
• Practicality
• Value and Final Thoughts

Introduction and Design

The largest Volvo SUV, the XC90, was introduced in 2002, whilst the smaller XC60 was introduced in 2008. An even more compact XC40 was introduced in 2017. Different sized vehicles is nothing new and manufacturers base their ranges on size, with most describing size by a larger number.

The XC60 is now in its second generation (pictured above), which came along in 2017, receiving a facelift in 2025. The XC90 is also in its second generation, which came along in 2015. It has since had a facelift in 2019 and 2024.

Put the Volvo XC60 and XC90 side by side and you can see the design DNA with ease. The XC90 literally looks like a larger XC60, or the XC60 looks like a smaller XC90. Both offer sophisticated design, and an air of class. In a world where the SUV is popular, the Volvo range sits above the 'trendy' two-wheel drive SUVs of mainstream manufacturers, but acts as an alternative to the premium German alternatives from the likes of BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz, as well as other favourites like Land Rover.

Versions and Performance

Versions and performance mirror this more sophisticated vibe too. Therefore there is no 'hardcore' performance variants, like what you would find in the BMW M, Audi RS and Mercedes-AMG SUV ranges, and even the high performance Land Rover models.

Instead, the XC60 power ranges between 246bhp and 449bhp via a 2.0-litre petrol engine, which is also offered with plug-in hybrid models, too. Diesel however has been discontinued for a while in the XC60

As for the larger XC90 (pictured above), it's the same story, with power again ranging between 246bhp and 449bhp, again all via the 2.0-litre petrol unit, with the option of plug-in hybrid power.

Interestingly, the smaller XC60 offers the fastest accelerating model, via the T8 PHEV, which takes 4.9 seconds to go from 0 to 62mph. The fastest XC90 is again the T8 PHEV, taking 5.4 seconds to go from 0 to 62mph. This is perhaps down to weight, with the XC60 not having to move as much mass as its bigger sibling.

Even the 'slowest' models of each are not really slow, taking 6.9 and 7.7 seconds respectively, which isn't exactly slow, and is ideal for modern traffic without feeling restricted.

Interior and Technology

Both the interior of the Volvo XC60 and XC90 (pictured above) are very similar, which is no bad thing as they both present a sophisticated, smart and cutting-edge array of digital meets traditional.

There's a crisp and clear digital instrument cluster, which is housed in a familiar coved dashboard. This may seem 'old' to some as many manufacturers have adopted the 'iPad-like' screen set up now. But if you like a more traditional feel, both XC60 and XC90 hit the perfect mix nicely. Both models also feature a portrait central infotainment screen, too.

Technology is still cutting-edge, and there's, as expected with Volvo, plenty of safety features on both XC60 and XC90. Of course, it'll all come down to trim and model year but you should easily be able to find options like 360-degree parking camera, front and rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control.

Practicality

As well as safety, Volvo goes hand in hand with practicality too, thanks to their history of iconic estate cars. Now the SUV has overtaken the estate for practicality, both XC60 and XC90 carry on the tradition.

The XC90 (pictured above) is a bona fide 7-seater as standard, whilst the more compact XC60 is a 5-seater, so if you need more passenger space, the XC90 has its smaller sibling beat.

With 7 seats in use, the XC90 still offers a decent 302-litre boot space, which increases to 680 litres in 5-seat mode. Fold all the rear seats down and there's a colossal 1,856 litres of space.

The XC60 still offers a decent 483-litre boot, which increases to 1,410 litres with the rear seats folded, but on the whole, the larger 7-seat XC90 takes the practicality crown with ease. But, if you don't need 7 seats, the XC60's space is still commendable, albeit coming in a little short against its German rivals.

Value and Final Thoughts

Is it a case of bigger is better with the Volvo XC60 and XC90? Yes and no. If you need an SUV with 7 seats, then the XC90 is a fine solution, which still offers decent space with all seats in use. However, the smaller XC60 (pictured above) can outpace its bigger sibling due to its lighter weight.

Both Volvo SUVs still feel a little more 'old money' when compared to rivals too. This will appeal to those who want a more subtle yet classy approach to SUV life. In terms of value, either Volvo offers a lot of features and spec for their used price points, and will fly under the radar more than rivals, which does have its advantages when it comes to insurance and not drawing attention.

If you're in the market for a safe, practical, sophisticated and modern SUV, then no matter what Volvo SUV your preference, you shouldn't be disappointed. German rivals do offer more performance, but we understand they won't be for everyone.

Find your perfect used Volvo at Evans Halshaw

Whether you're looking at purchasing a used Volvo or something completely different, Evans Halshaw represent some of the world's most trusted manufacturers, and our used car portfolio reflects such a wide and varied choice, meaning you're sure to find something ideal for your lifestyle.

Alternatively, if you enjoyed this article, why not check out more like it in our dedicated blog section.