DecodedCars2023 Volvo XC90
Trims, performance, features, fuel economy, safety and known problems — with the pros and cons against similar 2023 models.
- Class
- Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
- Body styles
- 4dr SUV AWD, Recharge 4dr SUV
- Engines
- 2.0L 4-cyl turbo
- Horsepower
- 295–312 hp
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Seats
- 6–7
- Fuel
- Plug-in Hybrid, Hybrid
- MPG (best)
- 27 combined · 26 city / 28 hwy
- Length
- 194.9 in
- Curb weight
- 4,524–5,095 lb
- NHTSA rating
- Not rated
- Recalls
- 7 campaigns
Pros & cons
What's good
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 27 MPG combined — 44% better than the average 2023 standard SUV (18.8 MPG).
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid as well as gas.
- Seats up to 7
- Lots of standard safety tech4 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
Watch out for
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
- 7 recallsMore than similar models (about 3). Confirm repairs with the VIN.
Calculated from EPA, NHTSA and vPIC data against 29 similar 2023 models — not a review. How we calculate this →
Overview
The 2023 Volvo XC90 is a standard SUV offered with a 2.0L 4-cyl turbo engine, including a hybrid version and all-wheel drive.
It measures about 195 inches long and 79 inches wide on a 117-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,524 lb (4dr SUV AWD).
EPA rates its most efficient version at 27 MPG combined (26 city / 28 highway), 44% better than the 2023 standard SUV average of 18.8 MPG, for an estimated $3,050 a year in fuel.
NHTSA has not published a 5-Star overall rating for this model year.
It has 7 recall campaigns on file and owners have filed 41 complaints with NHTSA since 2015, most often about the electrical system.
What changed for 2023
- New hybrid version
Compared with 2022; trim, feature and price changes aren't covered. See the 2022 XC90 →
Trims, performance & features
Engine295 hp2.0L 4-cyl hybrid
Engine312 hp2.0L 4-cyl plug-in hybrid
DriveAWD/4WD
Seating6–7 seats
Trims
Plus BrightUltimate BrightUltimate Dark
Safety & driver-assist features
Automatic emergency brakingStandard
Pedestrian emergency brakingStandard
Forward collision warningStandard
Blind-spot monitoringStandard
Blind-spot interventionStandard
Rear automatic brakingStandard
Lane departure warningStandard
Lane keeping assistStandard
Lane centeringStandard
Adaptive cruise controlStandard
Parking assistStandard
Backup cameraStandard
Automatic high beamsStandard
Adaptive driving beamStandard
Keyless startStandard
LED headlightsYes
NHTSA vPIC, as reported by the manufacturer for 5 2023 XC90 configurations; may not list every trim. How we calculate this →
Dimensions & weight
| Body | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Track F / R | Curb weight | Weight F/R |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4dr SUV AWD | 194.9 in | 79.1 in | 70.1 in | 117.3 in | 65.7 / 65.7 in | 4,524 lb | 53/47 |
| Recharge 4dr SUV | 194.9 in | 79.1 in | 70.1 in | 117.3 in | 65.7 / 65.7 in | 5,095 lb | 53/47 |
Transport Canada CVS (Open Government Licence – Canada), Canadian-market figures.
Will it fit your garage? Check with your measurements →Engines, MPG & running costs
| Version | Engine | Transmission | Drive | City / Hwy / Comb | vs. class | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XC90 T8 AWD Recharge Plug-in Hybrid | 2.0L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (S8) | All-Wheel Drive | 26 / 27 / 27 | +44% | $3,050 | 137 |
| XC90 B5 AWD Hybrid | 2.0L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (S8) | All-Wheel Drive | 22 / 28 / 25 | +33% | $3,300 | 358 |
| XC90 B6 AWD Hybrid | 2.0L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (S8) | All-Wheel Drive | 20 / 26 / 22 | +17% | $3,750 | 401 |
7/10EPA fuel economy score (best version)
9/10EPA greenhouse gas score
Save $2,000Fuel over 5 years vs. average new car
18.8 MPG2023 Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD average
EPA estimates; "vs. class" is combined MPG against the 2023 EPA class average. How we calculate this →
Safety ratings & technology
NHTSA has not published 5-Star ratings for the 2023 Volvo XC90.
Similar 2023 standard SUVs
| Model | Best MPG / range | NHTSA overall | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Volvo XC90 (this car) | 27 MPG | Not rated | 7 |
| 2023 Tesla Model Y | 330 mi | Not rated | 17 |
| 2023 BMW X3 | 25 MPG | ★★★★★ | 4 |
| 2023 Lexus RX | 36 MPG | Not rated | 4 |
| 2023 Audi Q7 | 21 MPG | Not rated | 3 |
| 2023 Tesla Model X | 348 mi | Not rated | 17 |
| 2023 Porsche Macan | 21 MPG | Not rated | 0 |
Recalls (7)
Back Over Prevention › Software · Dec 23, 2025
NHTSA campaign 25V908000 · 413,151 vehicles
- Problem
- Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2024 C40BEV, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40, and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Risk
- A rearview camera image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- The software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 24, 2026. Owners may contact Volvo Carâs customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10333. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning February 16, 2026. This recall replaces previous NHTSA recall number 25V282. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 25V282 will need to have the new remedy performed.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Power Assist › Electric › Control Module › Software · Jun 12, 2025
NHTSA campaign 25V392000 · 11,469 vehicles
- Problem
- Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 Volvo C40 BEV, 2025 EC40, 2023-2024 XC40 BEV, 2020-2026 XC90 PHEV, 2022-2026 XC60 PHEV, 2023-2025 S60 PHEV, 2024-2025 V60 PHEV, and 2025-2026 EX40 and 2025 S90 PHEV vehicles. In certain driving scenarios while coasting down a hill and using "B" mode or "One Pedal Drive," the vehicle may lose brake function.
- Risk
- A loss of brake function increases the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Owners are advised not to use "B" Mode (for plug-in hybrid vehicles) or "One Pedal Drive" (for pure electric vehicles) until the repair has been completed. The brake module software will be updated over-the-air (OTA) or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2025. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10329.
Back Over Prevention › Software · May 8, 2025
NHTSA campaign 25V282000 · 413,151 vehicles
- Problem
- Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2021-2025 XC40, 2022 V90, 2022-2025 S90, V90CC, C40, XC60, 2023-2025 S60, V60, V60CC, XC90, and 2025 EC40 and EX40 vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Risk
- A rearview camera image that does not display reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- The software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 27, 2025. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10320.
Seat Belts › Critical Fasteners · Dec 7, 2023
NHTSA campaign 23V827000 · 2,911 vehicles
- Problem
- Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2015-2024 XC90 vehicles. The second-row seat belt buckle and lower belt anchor bolts may not be tightened properly.
- Risk
- An improperly tightened seat belt buckle may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing their risk of injury during a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect and tighten the second-row seat belt buckle anchorage bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 19, 2024. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10259.
Electrical System · Mar 22, 2023
NHTSA campaign 23V188000 · 393 vehicles
- Problem
- Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 S60, V60CC, XC60, XC90, XC40, and C40 vehicles. A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) may be falsely detected for the emergency call system (e-call) and display "e-Call Service Required" in the driver information module (DIM).
- Risk
- The false warning message could prevent the detection of an actual e-call system failure, which could delay an emergency response during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Fix
- Dealers will update the telematics and connectivity antenna module (TCAM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10225.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · Jan 19, 2023
NHTSA campaign 23V012000 · 27,457 vehicles
- Problem
- Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2023 S60, V60, V60CC, V90CC, XC60, XC90, XC40, and C40 vehicles. A diagnostic error in the Brake Control Module 2 (BCM2) may cause a loss of Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and traction control.
- Risk
- A reduction in brake support functions can increase the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Volvo will release an over-the-air (OTA) BCM2 software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 15, 2023. Owners may contact Volvo Car customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10217.
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Engine Control Module (Ecu/Ecm) · Oct 20, 2022
NHTSA campaign 22V793000 · 15,674 vehicles
- Problem
- Volvo Car USA, LLC (Volvo Car) is recalling certain 2022-2023 S60, V60, S90L, XC60, and XC90 vehicles. An electronic control module (ECM) software error may prevent the combustion engine from starting, causing a loss of drive power.
- Risk
- The vehicle may lose drive power as the high voltage battery is depleted, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will update the ECM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 8, 2022. Owners may contact Volvo Car's customer service at 1-800-458-1552. Volvo Car's number for this recall is R10198.
Not every 2023 Volvo XC90 is affected — only a VIN check confirms your car.
Owner-reported problems
41Complaints to NHTSA since 2015
0Involved a crash
0Involved a fire
2Injuries reported
28,000 miTypical mileage at failure
Unverified owner reports; best-sellers collect more.
Used 2023 Volvo XC90 buyer's checklist
- Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 7 recalls this year — ask for proof of repairs.
- Electrical System — 8 owner reports. Test every window, lock, light, screen and USB port; check the battery age.
- Back Over Prevention › Rearview System Braking — 7 owner reports. Make sure driver-assist systems and the backup camera work without error messages.
- Fuel/Propulsion System — 5 owner reports. Smell for fuel around the car and in the cabin, check that it starts easily when warm, and look at the oil dipstick for a fuel smell or rising level.
- Mileage to watch. Owners typically reported problems around 28,000 miles; ask what was repaired near that point.
- Hybrid system. Check for hybrid-system warning lights and ask whether the high-voltage battery has been replaced or is still under warranty.
- Before you pay: service records, a history report and an independent inspection.
Generated by DecodedCars from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 2023 Volvo XC90. Not a substitute for a professional inspection.
Other XC90 years
Compare all years →| Year | MPG (best) | Length | Overall | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 XC90 | 25 | – | Not rated | 0 | 0 |
| 2026 XC90 | 27 | 195.7 in | Not rated | 1 | 8 |
| 2025 XC90 | 27 | 194.9 in | Not rated | 3 | 29 |
| 2024 XC90 | 27 | 194.9 in | Not rated | 4 | 37 |
| 2022 XC90 | 27 | 194.9 in | Not rated | 5 | 31 |
| 2021 XC90 | 27 | 194.9 in | Not rated | 7 | 42 |
| 2020 XC90 | 27 | 194.9 in | Not rated | 9 | 34 |
| 2019 XC90 | 25 | 194.9 in | Not rated | 6 | 42 |
| 2018 XC90 | 27 | 194.9 in | Not rated | 3 | 52 |
| 2017 XC90 | 25 | 194.9 in | Not rated | 7 | 82 |
| 2016 XC90 | 25 | 194.9 in | Not rated | 8 | 198 |
| 2014 XC90 | 19 | 189 in | Not rated | 0 | 4 |
Sources: EPA, NHTSA, Transport Canada, Wikimedia Commons. Not affiliated with NHTSA, the EPA or Volvo. How we calculate this →