Is Volvo A Good SUV? (Explained!)

SUV’s have become more popular over the years, especially for larger families who need more space but don’t like the look of a minivan. Many people are searching for more luxurious, sharper looking, and higher quality vehicles that don’t add to the already-thick cloud of fuel emissions. One brand of SUV that can meet all these needs is Volvo.

Volvo makes higher-end SUVs with hybrid and all-electric models, preventing additional toxic emissions. Most models received the highest safety ratings from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. However, there are reports of power and transmission problems in the Volvo XC90.

There are several Volvo models that meet the high standards many buyers are looking for these days, each one exhibiting their own features concerning safety, comfort, fuel, and more. Before purchasing a Volvo of your own, there may be some issues you want to be aware of, as well as models that might be better fit for you and your family’s desires for travel.

Volvo XC40 & Recharge

A great basic SUV is the Volvo XC40. The variety of safety features included in this vehicle catches the attention of many buyers. With their BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), the driver isn’t the only one looking for potential dangers on the road. The Volvo XC40 has a 360-degree camera view, making driving and parking less stressful.

This vehicle also protects you and your passengers with slow down, stop, and go alerts. Additionally, the Volvo XC40 includes an automatic braking system that activates when you get too close to another vehicle and haven’t braked yet. These features will keep you a safe distance from other vehicles on the road, therefore, preventing accidents from occurring.

The Volvo XC40 has All Wheel Drive, providing you with extra power when you need it most. The panoramic sunroof, touch screen display, and advanced temperature control systems. With the Volvo app, you can preheat–or precool–your SUV from anywhere.

It was also awarded the Top Safety Pick+ safety rating from IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) for the 2021 and 2019 models, while the 2020 model received the next highest rating of Top Safety Pick.

There are different styles and pricing available for XC40, including the Momentum which starts at $35,195, the Inscription starting at $40,945, and the R-Design which starts at $40,445. You can design your own Volvo vehicle online, to make the perfect match for you!

Volvo XC40 Recharge

With the Recharge model of the XC40, you don’t have to feel guilty about fuel emissions from your trips. It’s a full-electric SUV with a 223-mile electric driving range. It takes 37 minutes (in ideal conditions) to fully charge.

It comes with all the best safe driving assistance features including a 360-degree camera view, and received the Top Safety Pick+ award for the 2021 model. The Volvo XC40 Recharge includes hands-free Google systems including Maps, which can lead you to the nearest charging station when you’re in a pinch.

This vehicle features a wireless phone charger and a Harman Kardon audio installation. The interior of the vehicle was made with recycled materials, ensuring the entire vehicle contributes to a healthier climate. Pricing starts at $55,300.

Volvo XC60 & Recharge

The Volvo XC60 is a step up from the XC40 and uses the same safety features, such as BLIS, safe driving assistance, and the automatic braking system. It received the Top Safety Pick+ award for the 2021, and 2017-2013 models, and the Top Safety Pick for the 2018, and 2012-2010 models, which is very impressive.

Many other features include the hands-free built-in Google system, a 360 degree camera, high quality audio system, and a cabin air cleaning system. This air cleaning system guarantees 95% cleaner air.

The Momentum Style pricing begins at $43,745, while the Inscription begins at $51,245, and the R-Design at $49,895.

Volvo XC60 Recharge

The XC60 Recharge is, again, the plug-in hybrid version of the original, and gives off zero fuel emissions while in pure electric mode. The XC60 has an all-electric range of 19 miles. Included again is the air cleaning system, all the same safety driving features, the built-in Google system, and the ability to preheat and precool through the app.

Volvo XC90 & Recharge

The Volvo XC90 is perfect for larger families since it can seat 7 passengers, has All Wheel Drive, safe driving assistance, auto braking, and again, a 360-degree camera. With these safety features, the XC90 received the Top Safety Pick+ for the 2021, 2020, 2016, and 2013 models, while the 2019, 2017-2014, and 2012-2007 models received the Top Safety Pick.

With their safety designs, the Volvo XC60 Recharge was awarded the Top Safety Pick+ for the 2021 model. Pricing for the Inscription style begins at $55,345, the R-Design starts at $61,495, and the Polestar Engineered at $70,595.

It has all the same comfort and luxury interior features such as the panoramic sun roof and high quality sound system. The Momentum style’s pricing begins at $50,995, while the Inscription starts at $64,695.

Volvo XC90 Recharge

The plug-in hybrid Volvo XC90 Recharge has an 18 mile all electric driving range, and offers Pure Drive mode for zero fuel emissions, as well as 95% cleaner air inside with the air filtering system.

Safety features include a 360-degree camera, auto braking system, safety driving assistance, and speed adaptions for a steady and safe driving experience. IIHS awarded the 2021 model with the Top Safety Pick+ rating.

Pricing for the Inscription Style begins at $64,895, and the R-Design starts at $70,595.

Issues

The only SUV from Volvo that has had repeated issues or complaints is the XC90. Owners of the various XC90 models reported electrical problems.

Drivers of the 2014 model reported that the dashboard lights and gauges occasionally shut down. The 2006 model also seemed to have repeated electric issues, such as a drained battery even after charging, and it had trouble starting. The 2004 was reported to have a sudden loss of power, even while driving.

There have been other reported complaints about the auto braking system, which was recalled in some models. Other issues include transmission issues at a low odometer reading, which is of course very expensive to fix, as well as some premature tire wear which can cause bigger issues down the road.