Compare The Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Vs. Tesla Model X

If you're deciding between plug-in hybrid performance or all-electric attitude in your next luxury three-row SUV, our Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model X comparison is for you. Both models give you electrified power, but which one can offer the reliability, amenities, and specs you need most?

Take a quick spin through our Volvo XC90 PHEV vs. Model X matchup to see how the trim levels, safety features, and prices stack up. When you're ready to explore the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid in person, pop into Principle Volvo Cars for a test drive of your favorite trim.

Tesla Model X vs. Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid: Trim Levels, Safety & Price

Both the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid and Tesla Model X boast automated features and advanced safety systems, but the real pull of the Tesla Model X is its self-driving capabilities, which remain locked behind an extra paywall; you'll need to spend substantially more money to get these add-ons, making the SUV even more expensive. The Volvo XC90 PHEV makes enjoying futuristic and safe driver assistance features easy by embedding them within the trim lineup.

In addition, the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid offers a selection of seven exterior paint colors, while a Stealth Grey Tesla SUV will be your only color option unless you want to pay more to access additional colors.

2025 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid

Choosing your Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid trim level is a fun and easy process: This SUV comes in three trims – Core, Plus, and Ultra – each building upon the last to provide a sophisticated suite of cabin features and technology.

• Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Core: This trim launches you into luxury with heated, Comfort-designed front seats, Linear Walnut decor, and the full Google Built-In suite of navigation and voice-activated systems. Drive confidently with safety features like Pilot Assist, Park Assist (front and rear), Oncoming Lane Mitigation, an Intelligent Driver Information System (IDIS), and a Whiplash Injury Protection System (WHIPS).
• Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Plus: The Plus trim builds upon the Core and adds high-level interior illumination, Remote Key, heated rear seats and steering wheel, and a 360-degree camera. Park Assist is also upgraded to the sides in addition to the front and rear.
• Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Ultra: Slide into the Ultra trim for a crystal Orrefors® gear selector, ventilated Nappa leather upholstery, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon® Premium Sound System, and a Head-Up Display with adaptive brightness.

2025 Tesla Model X

Tesla Motors is unclear about interior perks, which can make it difficult for drivers to get an idea of what's inside virtually. That's a point in favor of the Volvo XC90 PHEV, a vehicle clearly described via its online build tool and official website. That being said, according to Car and Driver,¹ the Tesla Model X comes equipped with a buttonless interface, classic to the brand. Additionally, you can choose between two steering wheel styles, one a classic circular option and the other a rectangular "yoke" style. These features are standard on both trims, while the automaker's Enhanced Autopilot or Full Self-Driving Capability are available but only for a steep additional charge.

• Tesla Model X: This base trim comes with seating for five, but you can purchase seating for six or seven passengers. That optional third row is pretty cramped, though, unlike the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid.
• Tesla Model X Plaid: This high-performance trim is only available with seating for six passengers with a third row.

It's also important to note starting MSRPs across trims. Not only are the prices of the two Tesla Model X trims vastly different from one another, but a top-tier Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Ultra is still less costly than the higher-tier Plaid Tesla Model X SUV.

If you're searching for a cost-accessible SUV, claim one of our Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid deals to snag an electric-hybrid vehicle that can pack a punch while fitting into your desired budget.

Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model X: Performance Specs

Driving a luxury SUV should put a huge smile on your face, not a huge dent in your wallet. As we examine the 2025 specs of the Volvo XC90 PHEV vs. Model X, you'll notice that the Tesla SUV's specs are exciting, but their price tag is not. In contrast, the more reasonably priced Volvo model mixes reliability with its own feisty punch of power.

2025 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid

Each Volvo XC90 PHEV trim is fitted with a dependable 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder within its T8 AWD powertrain. This plug-in hybrid powertrain uses a mixture of gas and electricity to capture an EPA-estimated 58 MPGe (Combined)² and an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 32 miles.² Imagine how much time you'll save at the pump with nearly 60 miles of hybrid driving per refuel!

Volvo SUVs come with a portable charger and can be recharged at home or at any public charging station, giving you access to thousands of recharge options nationwide. The economical Volvo XC90 PHEV engine can also generate 455 horsepower, 523 pound-feet of torque, and a five-second 0-60 acceleration rate to make your daily drives efficient and exciting.

Perhaps most importantly, the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid provides a balance of traditional gas-powered performance and electric technology. Many American families are choosing not to go fully electric at this time, and a plug-in hybrid is an ideal compromise that offers the best of both worlds.

2025 Tesla Model X

The Tesla trims bring thrilling performance, but we wonder how many SUV drivers need this power level when commuting with their families. Choose the base Tesla Model X for a two-motor AWD platform that produces 670 horsepower, a 3.8-second 0-60 mph acceleration rate, and an EPA-estimated 329 miles³ of all-electric range.

Take a significant step up in price to a Tesla Model X Plaid and gain a tri-motor AWD platform that generates 1,020 horsepower, a 2.5-second 0-60 mph acceleration rate, and an EPA-estimated 314 miles³ of electric range. Unfortunately, the Tesla Model X trims do not provide a charger with your purchase, and Tesla SUVs can only plug in and achieve their charge rates at Tesla-brand charging stations.

Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model X: Dimensions

Other key factors you may want to consider in your SUV hunt are exterior and interior dimensions. Examining the new Tesla Model X vs. Volvo XC90 PHEV dimensions reveals that the 2025 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid is a perfect adventure vehicle with seating for six or seven, depending on the trim. Fold the third row and utilize 65.5 cubic feet of cargo space to store four suitcases and a cabin bag, or fold both rear seats for a max cargo capacity of 85.7 cubic feet across this 195-inch-long vehicle.

At 199.1 inches long, a full 4 inches longer than the Volvo SUV, the Tesla Model X will be more difficult to park. In addition, at its medium setting, the Tesla model is nearly 4 inches shorter than the Volvo XC90 PHEV. Turning to cargo space, the Tesla Model X provides 43.5 cubic feet of cargo volume for luggage and essentials or a max cargo volume of 91.6 cubic feet. This maximum number is more than the Volvo XC90 PHEV offers, but you'll need to pay more to get it – and you won't have access to the standard safety features and amenities that Volvo Cars makes standard on this SUV.

Shop for Your Dream Volvo Model at Principle Volvo Cars

Families who need a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective SUV option have likely discovered that the Volvo model reigns victorious in this Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model X comparison. The Volvo PHEV SUV is a great choice for families needing a dependable commuter vehicle with ample power and excitement for weekend adventuring.

Visit Principle Volvo Cars today to explore the new Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid for sale in person or to discover all the new and quality pre-owned cars in our inventory.

What Reddit Users Say About Volvo XC90 Plug-in Hybrid vs. Tesla Model X

If you're not convinced of either model in our Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model X comparison, perhaps firsthand accounts of other drivers may help you make a final choice. One place to get these anecdotes and accounts is a website of forums and threads called Reddit. Many Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model X Reddit threads allow drivers like you to get an understanding of what it's like to own one of these three-row SUVs and see how they measure up.

One original poster of a Reddit thread comparing these two SUVs says he loves the Volvo XC90 for its "creature comforts of the car and ride quality."⁴ This poster goes on to say that they are considering the Tesla Model X only because of the price drop since previous model years.

While we don't think the Tesla Model X price has dropped nearly enough to purchase the Tesla SUV over the luxurious, well-equipped Volvo counterpart, we do think hearing the stories of other drivers can be an excellent aid in your search. Use our guide in tandem with Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model X Reddit threads to get a feel for either model and decide which is best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the safety features offered in the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. the Tesla Model X?

The Tesla Model X vs. Volvo XC90 PHEV safety features are similar. Both have high-tech safety systems that use proximity sensors to avoid other cars, debris, and pedestrians. Plus, both correct any lane drifting and have detection technology to help prevent collisions. However, the Tesla Model X only offers its self-driving feature at an extra cost, making the Volvo SUV the more safe and cost-effective option.

What is the range of the Volvo XC90 PHEV vs. the Tesla Model X?

The Volvo XC90 PHEV has an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 32 miles² or an EPA-estimated hybrid fuel economy of 58 MPGe (Combined).² The Tesla Model X is a fully electric vehicle with a range of 314 to 329 miles,³ depending on the trim. The Volvo XC90 PHEV has the advantage of charging at any public charging station, whereas Tesla models are limited to Tesla chargers.

How does the performance of the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid compare to the Tesla Model X?

The Volvo XC90 PHEV is a plug-in hybrid SUV that uses gas and electricity for supreme flexibility on the road. The Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid also delivers exciting performance specs, including 523 pound-feet of torque. The Tesla Model X does offer higher horsepower and torque, but it requires costly add-ons for its most famous self-driving feature. Families will likely prefer a new Volvo XC90 PHEV.

Expert Opinion

Only one car here can drive as an EV and then switch to gasoline power: the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid. In terms of cabin design, the Volvo model also stands out with Scandinavian elegance and timeless style. Tesla's interior design language is more of a deafening silence, as they leave things so bare that we can count the number of overarching dashboard style lines on one hand. If you'd rather have gimmicks like "Caroake" and "Falcon-Wing doors," then the Model X certainly is great, but for a car that ditches flamboyancy for genuine thoughtfulness and refinement, the Volvo XC90 PHEV is the better choice.

Bryan Barton, General Manager

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¹This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-x

²Estimated range according to the EPA driving cycles. The actual range achieved under real conditions varies depending on driving behavior, driving conditions, how you maintain your vehicle, battery and other external factors. Visit fueleconomy.gov for further information.

³Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov

⁴This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.reddit.com/r/carbuying/comments/14ckli5/volvo_xc90_vs_tesla_model_x/?rdt=33854