2025 Volvo XC90 Ultra T8 Review

The luxury mid-to-large SUV market has been heating up in Malaysia in recent years, with an increasing demand from family users and business professionals for a balance of space, features, and energy efficiency. Volvo, known for its safety and luxury, introduces its 2025 XC90 Ultra T8 as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) to this segment, with key highlights including a combined power of 462PS, 77km of pure electric range, and standard comprehensive safety features. This test drive focuses on evaluating its performance, space practicality, and daily driving comfort, providing potential buyers with an informed reference.

In terms of appearance, the 2025 XC90 Ultra T8 continues Volvo's classic Scandinavian design language with clean and understated lines. The front features a vertical chrome grille paired with "Thor's Hammer" LED daytime running lights, offering a highly recognizable aesthetic; the side profile showcases a straight beltline running from the front fender to the rear, complemented by 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels and 275/45 R20 tires, enhancing the vehicle's imposing presence. At the rear, the horizontally extended "Viking Axe" LED taillights echo the design of the front, while the hidden exhaust layout on the lower bumper emphasizes the understated nature of the hybrid model. The lighting system features LED technology across the board, with automatic headlights and rear fog lights as standard, adding practicality to the mix.

Inside, the interior predominantly features light tones, with generous use of soft leather and wood trim enhancing the luxurious feel. The center console layout is minimalist, with an 11.2-inch vertically oriented touchscreen integrating navigation, multimedia, and vehicle settings functions, all designed with a clear operational logic. The 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster provides rich information and can work in tandem with the head-up display (HUD) to minimize driver distraction. In terms of configuration, the front seats support electric adjustment, the second row adopts a 40:20:40 split-folding design, and the third row offers a 50:50 split-folding option. Combined with a base trunk capacity of 650 liters, the loading capacity is highly versatile. All seven seats are equipped with seatbelt reminders, and details such as independent rear air conditioning and USB ports address the needs of family users.

For powertrain, the XC90 Ultra T8 is equipped with a combination of a 2.0T turbocharged engine and a permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivering a combined output of 462PS and a total torque of 709N·m. In pure electric mode, the 77km range is sufficient for daily commutes, with the motor providing responsive acceleration and smooth performance at low speeds. Switching to hybrid mode, the engine engages seamlessly, delivering strong acceleration in the mid-to-high range; the official 0-100km/h acceleration time of 5.3 seconds instills confidence during overtaking. The 8-speed automatic transmission exhibits clear shifting logic, with barely noticeable jerks.

The handling and chassis performance are commendable, with front and rear air suspension that can adjust firmness based on road conditions. When passing over speed bumps or rough roads, the suspension effectively filters out vibrations and maintains body stability. During high-speed cornering, the suspension provides sufficient support with well-controlled body roll. The all-wheel drive system performs well on slippery roads, enhancing driving safety. In specialized tests, the pure electric mode showed a consumption of approximately 26.7kWh/100km, aligning closely with the official data, while the hybrid mode delivered a combined fuel consumption of about 1.8L/100km, demonstrating excellent fuel economy. Charging times of 3 hours for fast charging and 5 hours for slow charging can meet daily recharging needs.

In terms of ride comfort, the interior sound insulation is excellent, with wind noise and tire noise kept at low levels during high-speed driving. The energy recovery system offers three adjustable levels, and the drag sensation when letting off the accelerator in the highest level is not obvious, providing a driving experience similar to that of a fuel-powered car. The seats are softly cushioned yet supportive, making it less tiring for prolonged seating. While the third-row space is not as spacious as the first two rows, it is still acceptable for short trips, making it suitable for family outings.

Overall, the core advantage of the 2025 Volvo XC90 Ultra T8 lies in its well-balanced product capabilities: powerful performance, flexible 7-seater space, fully standard safety features, and the low energy consumption benefits of a PHEV model. Compared to competitors in the same class, such as the BMW X5 xDrive45e, the XC90 Ultra T8 offers more comprehensive safety features and more flexible space performance at a similar price point, making it ideal for users who value family practicality, pursue luxurious quality, and are sensitive to energy consumption. Whether for daily commutes or long-distance trips, it can meet needs very well.

In summary, the XC90 Ultra T8 is a luxurious 7-seater SUV that balances power, comfort, and environmental friendliness. It is particularly suitable for mid-to-high-end consumers who often need to accommodate family members and value safety and features. If you are looking for a well-rounded executive-level SUV without any significant shortcomings, it is worth considering.