2026 Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid delivers luxury, power and fuel savings

With current gas prices soaring, car manufacturers continue to promote their fuel-efficient electric or hybrid models.

This month’s Cars in the City features the 2026 Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid. The Volvo hybrid gets about 58 mpg equivalent when using both electricity and gas for short trips. Once the electric charge is used up, it gets around 27 mpg, so keep plugging it in after each use.

Volvo’s luxury brand consistently ranks in the top 10 lists of luxury vehicles with its unique features. This model offers a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, combined for 455 horsepower. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds, enough to pull a jet ski, fishing boat or small camper.

The Volvo offers third-row seating, although it is a bit snug in the far back row. Passengers are treated to Nappa leather and side vents in the back-row seats.

The front seats, with four-way lumbar support, seat extension and other adjustments, are designed around Scandinavian ergonomic principles and endorsed by the College of Chiropractors. The sink-in seats were comfortable yet supportive.

After a push-button start, camera views pop up on the rearview mirror. I find it dizzying, as the camera view is like an amusement park ride, with cars speeding up from behind. I disabled it and switched to a normal rearview mirror.

When looking in the rearview mirror, sometimes the backseat headrest blocks your view. To improve visibility, just push the headrest button, and it instantly folds forward. Although I did not test it with a passenger sitting there, I hope the feature is disabled when occupied.

The center console shifter is made of real crystal. It is called the “Crystal Eye” and is made by Orrefors, a famous Swedish glass and crystal company known for fine crystal art and glassware. The jewel-like shifter is hand-finished by artisans and illuminated from below.

Volvo’s front grille is curved and sleek in appearance. Look more closely at the headlight design to discover Thor’s Hammer. The horizontal T-shaped LED light inside the headlight resembles the legendary hammer of Thor, the Norse god of thunder from Scandinavian mythology. I guess having a Norwegian god protecting the vehicle is a bonus.

The Bowers & Wilkins stereo sound was top-notch. As I rubbed my hand against the speaker grilles, the texture was rough, similar to a singer’s microphone. The brushed-metal finish includes perforations that allow for better sound. Knowing my luck, I would snag my favorite blouse on it, but at least I would enjoy the thumping bass sound.

Reading the price sticker on a new vehicle often reveals extras that add to the total cost. For the Volvo, a rear camera washer costs $385. Can you not just use your T-shirt to wipe off water spots?

Priced at $92,125, the Volvo is definitely a splurge luxury vehicle. The money saved on today’s gas prices could be significant. Plus, you can rest your hand on a piece of crystal. ♦

Jackie Wilson has written hundreds of articles for CITYVIEW and the Iowa Living magazines. She has covered many ordinary people living extraordinary lives.