6years..volvo still looks damn classy. ages very well

A month ago I was faced with this choise: XC90 vs X5 and also vs VW Touareg. I took XC 90 and do not regret it a second. As a driver's pleasure the BMW or VW are much, much better, and their multimedia are much prettier too, but as a safe, stable and comfortable family SUV Volvo is king.

I already prefer the xc90, but the coming upgrades will definitely tip the scales.

In past 15 years I have owned so far two M Benz ML's since new , later two X5's since new E70 and F15 both for over 5 years .Traded in my 2015 X5 30D for XC90 T8 R design , pneumatic suspension , all the options possible and love the car. X5's are more sport car like tuned driving machines , well family SUV's are usually driven with family but Volvo handles very well .Bit of a torque steer like Golf GTi due to having more power at front, just need to get used to. Operating system of BMW is easier to use for sure . I love this Volvovery much , no regrets , so quiet comparing to diesel X5 .In few moths I have barely used any petrol as can do 40 km on battery what is enough for city driving . Bloody quick with my Polestar tuning does 100km/h in 5 sec .... I was afraid will not like the XC 90 after BM and BMW as I am a German car person , the opposite has happened , can not wait to jump into my Volvo and drive it ....and the B&W sound system is just mind blowing ,and in price ...

I prefer the XC 90, especially now with plugin hybrid Recharge extended range and 455 HP. Contrary to what the CarGuru believes, I think the BMW is older looking than the current take of the XC90 second generation.

This model xc90 was lauched 5 years ago’ while bmw is a much younger model ! Means that volvo it is still a very good car.

Entertaining to watch - but the rear seat comparison didn’t seem very fair given the front seats didn’t seem adjusted for uniformity. The Volvo has much more rear seat leg room in reality from my experience, while the BMW is much more technology-packed.

Got an XC90 almost 6 years ago when the new model came out, and still have it. Going to try X5 this year to diversify the driving experience.

I have owned XC90 T8 for a couple of months now. I also tested the BMW X5. I picked XC90 because I wanted a 7 seater. BMW's interior, infotainment system, suspension and quiteness are noticeably better. But XC90 infotainment is pretty easy to use. Really, I never felt touch screen is a problem. But BMW infotainment is a notch better, more premium. In terms of power, BMW certainly has plenty. But XC90 is not bad. None of them is as good as a Model S but these are huge SUVs. One negative about BMW is the second-row leg room is a bit limited, you can't move it or recline. Plus, to me XC90 is such a good-looking car. I wish the electric range is 50 miles, then 80% of my driving will be pure electric.

Xc90 all day. I have an old xc90 and a new xc40 and there have been no recorded fatalities in the UK when a Volvo XC model has been in an accident.

The blue one is by far the best, forget the rest.

Volvo for me. Even with all of the apparent advantages of the BMW, just couldn't put up with the front styling. Volvo styling much better resolved for me.

X5 charging is slow, very slow. But it has the advantage of mechanical controls for the heating system. The early XC90’s infotainment was very laggy. X5 is a mechanical AWD. The XC90 is eAWD - electric motor drives the rear wheels.

Having driven both long distance... I bought the XC90.... steering on the BMW needed much more annoying attention to keep it straight... I suggest getting the 19inch rims if you like a softer ride... I have 20" prefer the 19".... but the truck definitely doesn't handle like a truck... more car like... as for versatility .... I prefer the XC90 big time... I ski a lot and the middle fold down seat is really nice to throw the skis in there and still have room for passengers.... my lease is up at the end of this year and I'm excited to see what the new 2023 is gonna look like...

Impressive result for the Volvo considering its age!

While I agree that the BMW is somewhat quieter and definitely sharper that doesn't translate to more relaxing. There's a more Zen-like quality to the Volvo and a slightly more aggressiveness about the BMW. While car reviewers love to point that out, some buyers will prefer than kind of Zen-like feeling the Volvo gives. They're just different. Volvo is an "old" design now and I look forward to the next-gen. Volvo just doesn't feel like showing it yet.

Good review.I especially like how she matched her dress to BMW brake calipers (10:29)

I just bought a 2023 volvo xc90 and I'm impressed with what electric range it has. on a full charge, i can move 40+ km which is more than enough for me to work and back. the fuel tank is also impressive, measuring in at over 70 L it can easily last 900+ km. I think if BMW has a similar model within 6 years I will trade the volvo for a bmw and do my own comparison

Great video we went with the X5 plug-in hybrid Better non haldex awd system and we live on a farm and the split gate make so much sense for exactly the reason she said in the video. Also I can NOT dress enough the different awd systems, we have a friend with the xc90 and they got stuck on the land, cus the front wheels spun but the back wheels stayed stationary as the it overheated the clutch packs. The bmw on the other hand has a traditional always on awd rear biased system it makes such a big difference. Also many friends have consistently sent their xc90 to the service center since purchasing so that pushed away. Sad too cus we have owned so many older Volvo xc products.

Have an XC40 so do like the XC90 a lot. But the current X5 is pretty good...

On my 3rd new shape XC90, it’s just a lovely place to be, so for me it would be the Volvo all day long

Wow; beautiful presentation. Just amazing!

Ordered X5 45e, Couldn't stand Volo infotainment screen and BMW was just much more fun to drive. Can't believe how fun it is to drive X5 for the weight.

Why were safety ratings not compared? After all, safety is a significant aspect when deciding on where to spend hard earned dollars.

Really good video :) I've seen her for years and she's a great presenter.

One thing everyone mentions is the infotainment system and if there fiddly, but most of the settings are set and forget so I never see an issue with this stuff.

Why don’t the new x5 plug in hybrids come in 7 seaters!!?? Only the hybrids come in 7 seats but it’s not plug in hybrid

X5 for me, except the Volvo has doors that cover the sills, while BMW's don't, and those M sill extensions transfer mud to the back of your legs when you get out. Still, select the X-Line model that comes without the M sills and problem solved.

Like the look of the Volvo best.

For me it will always be the Volvo. When I think of X5 I think more of police car than Family SUV

Comparing the boot space just by volume is only half the story. Things like length of boot floor when the back row of seats are upright, vertical height of boot opening and width of boot floor at the narrowest point are also essential factors.. Would appreciate if you speak about these briefly in your future videos… thanks

Very good review

can we get an update between the 2022 extended range against the bmw 45e

I guess I’m too late in saying welcome back Rebecca!

Can someone tell me what the music is? Starts at 06:03 and is absolutely enchanting. Could someone please help??

BMW x5 45e. The best selling SUV on a market. In NA long line to order and they are going like hot cakes even very expensive.

Does the volvo xc90 recharge have booster seats standard

It seems very unbiased review.

Top class presenter, and editing.

My Volvo XC90 Inscription is perfect for me.

I prefer the XC90 due to the 7 seats. We already have a BMW X1 so wanted something different. The XC90 feels and is more luxurious in comparison.

Hey. I like the Volvo XC90. Do you export CIF to Kampala, Uganda ?

Absolute class! The cars are not too bad either.

Gotta remember an all new electric XC90 coming out next year

"The BMW is more pointier and more assured..." Translated as your 'A typical' BMW driver will be even closer to the rear bumper. Surprised BMW haven't included an automatic main-beam headlamp flash when the distance to the car in front is less that 6 feet! Sorry, but it's The XC90 every time for me. 414 BHP in my 2017 T8 Polestar Hybrid plug in. Oh, and regularly achieving 100+ MPG filling on average once per month half a tank costing just £30 on average. And for the electric cost, Bulb (supported by gov bail out) have given me 4.95pence / Kwh on their EV tarif costing me c. £15 / month charge cost via Pod Point home charging station. Nuff said...

The bmw x5 is for the driving experience and the Volvo is mainly for a more eco friendly fast charging car

Found myself drifting toward the background music during the Volvo segment. Forgive me Rebecca.

One big disadvantage of the Volvo is that when the battery is empty, you end up with a front wheel drive car with a lot of torque steering and traction control to prevent wheel spin.

I would choose the BMW X5 as the better car, sweeter ride, smoother, and quieter ride.

How does a split tailgate make it easier to load?! Your 12 inches away from the boot!

the volvo does not come with electric powered steering column ??

Bought the Volvo T8. It is safer for the family and has a bigger interior and boot space. The infotainment is easy to use and the minimalistic design doesn't get out of fashion. Zero emissions for the daily use. Good looking exterior. If I want sporty feel i put it in Sport mode. The Air suspension works great. An excellent family car.

Volvo xc90👍

There are some points about on both cars that make most of comparison not accurate, like BMW X5 category is much more close to Volvo XC 60 than XC 90 (in other hand this model is mode like BMW X7). On my point view this was something missing on the video.

The Volvo interior looks indeed at least 4 years older (more like 8 years tbh with that display), I understand that the PHEV cars are compared because of the range and engines, but it would be more logic to compare the BMW to premium brands (especially in terms of interior). That said, I understand you would pick the Volvo if you need 7 seats

Way better than watching Mat Watson. (Nice cars, by the way.)

How could it be so good weather 1 month ago?

X5... I have a mitsubishi phev.. Is good but it feels a bit short on the electric miles

Xc90 all day long. Its way more comfortable than the X5 if I wanted a handling drivers car don't buy an SUV. The Diesel electric hybrid engine suits these cars so much better.

This video was biased toward the BMW hence the music that plays before she drives it. And BMW quality doesn’t hold a candle to Volvo safety, and chances are if your looking for a 7 seat SUV then you’ve got little ones that will be onboard as well. What better quality is a vehicle that keeps your most precious cargo safe. I own three Volvo’s, nothing new but we all live within our own financial reach, some greater than others. Id choose the XC-90 any day, and by the previous comments here many will agree. My XC-90 is a 2006, my S80 is an 05, and my S70 is a 2000. All are turbo charged and the S80 is twin turbo. I still keep a lifted 2004 F150, and my favorite is my 1984 Z28 Camaro. For more speed than I can handle I hop on my 2007 ZX-6R by Kawasaki.

Gotta go with the XC90!!

Great video 😉

I would choose the Volvo V90 as its better to drive, better on fuel and far better looking then both of these suvs and it also has a massive boot.

Was there any cars at all?

At 181 cm, I can fit fine in the back seat of the XC90 T8, when the front and middle seats are set so that I fit there, too. Not many SUVs allow that. Quality is good. The battery is a tax gimmick. If the Tesla X didn't have the falcon doors, for me it would be preferable to both. As it is, none of them is really desirable, for the price + costs vs. practical use vs. driving experience. For me, a small EV + a big diesel is still the winner, for similar total price. Let's see for how long.

If you want, or need 7 seats, the Volvo is the only 7 seat PHEV on sale. Advantage for the BMW is the mechanical AWD. The electric rear axle is not great in despise uk snow.

x5 is a better suv .nice review rebecca.

Best? x3 or Lexus. Volvo touch screen with the climate control goes totally against their commitment to safety

Price?

Great review. As a company car driver the X5 is by far the better choice for me - 7% benefit in kind tax. It’s in a league of its own in this regard.

Amazing😍😍👌👌💯💯

I will take the VOLVO thank you!☺😁😁👌👌👌 much more stylish

It cost me $1450.00 to change the passenger side mirror at the Volvo dealership. It charged 3 hrs of labor cost. I will go back to MB next car.

Seems you didn't try the xc90 with air suspension and I can't see how you would say that the infont system was fidley its infact very easy to use one screen to do it all, not having to use a dile and information screen to select your options Seems more distracting,l have quite fat fingers and find it easy to use and I wear glasses to read I don't need to use them when selecting option on the infont screen on the volvo maybe you need to visit spec savers ,also a 3ltr engine you will obviously get a quicker response at take off, don't get me wrong the BMW is fantastic but please when comparing please make them like for like or as close as possible

Volvo, 👍👍👍

What a beautiful dress!

I love the delusion that a hybrid vehicle is more environmentally friendly than a modern internal combustion engine; I guess we're just ignoring the open-pit mining for cobalt, lithium and all the other components required of modern high density batteries then?

the smile on her face while driving bmw, gives the review of which is better car!

Anytime I watch one of these reviews she makes me think English is the best sounding language

the x5 is in mind the more dynamic, so i take The X5 hybrid

Had both. X5 every day. Though I do like the Volvos seats. BMW X5 tuned had the same 400 BHP but 570 lbsft vs 295 lbsft in the T8 Volvo. Huge difference.

which you like to own better for about 5 years - Volvo $90,000 or $110,000 X5 @full specs(?)

Yeh I'd take Rebecca over the two SUVs all day. The X5 is the better car though no doubt.

We bought the BMW X5. The Volvo is a lovely car but starting to show its age. The BMW feels like a considerable step-up in quality over the Volvo and the engine is a sweet sounding 6-cylinder rather than the gruff, noisy 4-cylinder found in the Volvo. I think it’s the engine that really lets the Volvo down - it cheapens the whole experience. However, if seven seats are a must then your only choice is the Volvo. The battery on the X5 is excellent and we regularly get 55-miles out of it before it’s flat. I hear that 22-miles is a more realistic range with the Volvo. Fuel consumption on the X5 is around 35 mpg when running on fuel alone, which for a 2.5 tonne car isn’t bad. I would highly recommend the surround view camera system as the BMW is a wide car and can be difficult to park and drive around tight drive-thru access roads like you find at McDonalds and Costa coffee. I agree the front-end doesn’t please everyone but our car is black with the black M Sport pro pack so all of the grill is black too so it doesn’t stand out that much. The rear tail gate split hatch is great for putting wellies on etc but be warned, if you on the small side, it’s a struggle to reach the back of the boot with the lower tailgate down as it sticks about about 300mm. Ultimately, if it’s a company car, as ours is, the BMW is the only option due the company car tax benefits over the Volvo, although this might change with the new Volvo battery due to be released shortly.

Madness to go for one of these over a V90 or 5 series touring.

I drive xc90. Spacious. In R Design its very close to BMW in driving experience

The XC90 but with BMW's IDRIVE and proper temperature dials.

BMW for me. Bought the newest yesterday.

Can’t beat a polished BMW…thanks Rebecca!!!

Great review Rebecca X5 all the way

I own 2019 v90 cross country. Quality of center console is bad, made from cheap plastic covered with nice looking materials. At first i was very sceptical about climat controle, but volvos voice control do the job good, but it doesent make infotainment system any better, it is still low end unpolished system.

I respect Volvo but I love BMW! Great review!

X5 vs. XC90 vs. Rebecca = Rebecca!

I have had an Audi Q7 for four perfect years and I would rate the car better than either the Volvo or BMW on quality and driving experience. However I ordered Volvo XC90 as its replacement. The reason I wanted a plug in hybrid with a good electric only range. This is where the Audi hasn't kept up. My Audi is 7 seats and the XC90 is seven seats and I dont need them but what I do need is a very big boot because my wife is disabled and her wheel chair has to go in before the luggage. The BMW and yes the Discovery are simply too small when in 5 seat configuration. The BMW boot is woeful especially when you cant adjust the position of the rear seats. Dont look at how many litres of space there is in a boot . Its very misleading. Use a tape measure and your own eyes. Land rover measure to the roof! The BMW is a beautiful car and so good in so many ways but as a practical family car its too compromised. I love the X7 but no plug in hybrid.

I'm fan of xc90

XC90 for me!!

Drive them both every day………..both are good, BMW has an annoying feature of shutting down if you get out, even for a second……. But if I had to actually buy one, it would be the BMW because it’s a nicer office to spend time in and is a little more fun to drive.

So disappointing that you didn't say "bananas"!

X5 all day every day

I would have the BMW but the Volvo is a very close second so price would be the decider . Hoo Ra lol.