Compare The Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Vs. Tesla Model Y
Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model Y at a Glance
- The Volvo XC90 PHEV uses a gas engine and electrical power, giving you the best of both worlds. The Tesla Model Y is all-electric, leaving you with a lower range and towing capability.
- The Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid has three trim levels to choose from, while the Tesla Model Y only has a single variant.
- Bring the family with seven seats in the Volvo SUV, while the Tesla Model Y can only seat five.
- The Tesla vehicle only offers technology, while the Volvo XC90 PHEV emphasizes unique luxury and graceful design.
- You'll also get a more spacious interior with more cargo capacity in our Volvo three-row SUV.
Choosing to reduce your carbon footprint with luxury appeal has many competitors, but choosing between a Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model Y may be a major turning point in your day-to-day comfort. The Tesla Model Y markets itself with a large glass roof, rear entertainment center, and good range with its electric powertrain, but these new features can't keep up with the years upon years of Scandinavian design uplifting the Volvo XC90 PHEV. These include the 455-horsepower T8 setup, crystal knob by Orrefors®, and massive driving range thanks to the potency of gas engines. Our team at Principle Volvo Cars San Antonio is ready to showcase how adaptable and extraordinary this three-row SUV is compared to the Tesla Model Y, so continue reading our review and schedule an appointment to see it in person today.
Tesla Model Y vs. Volvo XC90 PHEV Trim Levels & Features
The first stop in our Volvo XC90 PHEV vs. Model Y comparison involves what you can shop for. The Tesla Model Y is currently released in a single trim level, the Launch Series. This new design boasts an increased driving range compared to last year, requiring you to take amenities like Supervised Self-Driving1 and the minimalist interior that Tesla loves to emphasize.
Instead, you could choose a three-row SUV with choices to make. The new Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid comes in three unique trim levels. The first, Core, comes with Pilot Assist, a panoramic moonroof, wireless phone charging, and the gorgeous crystal gear knob selector by Orrefors®. The Plus and Ultra levels add superior functionality, from the 360-Degree Camera and heated rear seats on the second level to the Harman Kardon® premium sound system and Head-Up Display available on the Ultra.
Tesla Model Y vs. Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Performance
Volvo XC90 PHEV | |
|---|---|
| Engine: | 2.0L turbo 4-cyl |
| Transmission: | 8-speed auto |
| Total Range: | 530 mi2 |
| Towing Capacity: | 5,000 lbs4 |
| Seating Capacity: | 7 |
| Length: | 195 in |
| Width: | 79.1 in |
| Height: | 69.9 in |
| Max Cargo Capacity: | 85.7 cu ft |
| Interior Highlights: |
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| Safety Highlights: |
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| Complimentary Factory Standard Maintenance? | Yes6 |
| IIHS Award: | Top Safety+7 |
Tesla Model Y | |
|---|---|
| Engine: | Single electric motor |
| Transmission: | Single-speed |
| Total Range: | 327 mi3 |
| Towing Capacity: | 3,500 lbs5 |
| Seating Capacity: | 5 |
| Length: | 188.6 in |
| Width: | 78 in |
| Height: | 63.9 in |
| Max Cargo Capacity: | 76 cu ft |
| Interior Highlights: |
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| Safety Highlights: |
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| Complimentary Factory Standard Maintenance? | No |
| IIHS Award: | None8 |
Taking a look at each model's specs tells a potent story. The Tesla Model Y hides its documentation for horsepower and torque, while the Volvo XC90 PHEV proudly displays a 455-horsepower engine-and-motor setup, using 523 pound-feet of torque to rocket from a standstill to 60 mph in just five seconds. The Tesla Model Y Launch Edition is listed at a 4.1-second 0-60 mph time, yet Tesla conducts these tests from a rolling start, making the actual Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model Y performance comparison more enticing for the Volvo SUV.
Towing capacity is another factor in favor of the Volvo SUV: A 5,000-pound towing capacity behind the Volvo SUV4 outdoes the 3,500-pound capability of the Tesla Model Y,5 showing off the extra strength of the T8 setup – and that's discounting the overall range. As you can see in the chart, thanks to its gas-powered engine, your three-row SUV has 203 miles of range2 over the two-row Tesla SUV.3
In spite of Tesla's best efforts, it cannot stand up to the tried-and-true hybrid setup that lets the Volvo XC90 PHEV provide a smooth, consistent, and reliable performance for hundreds of miles at a time.
Tesla Model Y vs. Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Safety, Dimensions & Cargo
While both models prioritize the safety of you and your family, there's a reason why the Volvo XC90 PHEV has an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Award7 while the Tesla received no similar acclaim.8 While the manufacturers of the Tesla Model Y poured resources into Supervised Self-Driving1 technology, Volvo mechanics carefully designed a three-row vehicle with Adaptive Cruise Control, a Blind-Spot Information System, and Pilot Assist, enveloping your SUV in a shell of sensor technology to actively aid your driving patterns and avoid danger – no waiting for the automated systems to do it for you.
Volvo Cars will also help with your SUV's early maintenance costs with a complimentary factory standard maintenance program.6 Your first three standard maintenance visits – within the first three years or up to 30,000 miles – are covered if you bring your pristine SUV to an official shop. The Tesla Model Y won't compensate you in the same way.
Our Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model Y showcase concludes with a brief run-through of size and dimension specs. The chart shows that the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid offers more length, width, height, and max cargo capacity than the Tesla Model Y, as well as two more seats. This makes the three-row option the correct choice for busy, growing families who need that extra space for picnics, vacations, soccer games, and other activities.
What Reddit Users Say About XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model Y
We're not the only ones taking the right side in the battle between the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model Y. Reddit users have found the Scandinavian design, smooth acceleration, and capable suite of features more alluring than the options on offer with the Tesla model. Check out some of the reviews below!
LegitCattleDrive
"Tesla are currently marked as the least reliable car manufacturer, so others telling you to go with that over other cars for their issues is nonsensical. Also at least with the Volvo, if there’s an issue, you can actually take it somewhere ASAP to be worked on."
Read Morenacardin
"XC90 [PHEV] is hands down the best option. We've had it for a month now. Averages about ~33 mi on battery and covers all our local driving. Took it on a 600 mile family road trip without having to think about charging. The back seats are super comfortable for the kids and overall has a high-end feel. Definitely worth getting the Plus package with the 360 camera, it makes parking a breeze in tight spots."
Read MoreWeldAE
"The Model Y has a VERY stiff suspension. This is easily the biggest negative with this vehicle and the Model Y really needs a dynamic suspension."
Read MoreShop the Winner at Principle Volvo Cars San Antonio
While there are plenty of reasons you may want a Tesla Model Y, the combination of the consistently excellent gas-and-electric setup, premium interior design elements, and larger interior make the Volvo SUV the winner of the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Tesla Model Y battle. If you want to shop for this family-friendly SUV, you've come to the right place! Our array of Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid specials will surely get you into the trim level you deserve.
Expert Opinion
The Tesla Model Y is technically an SUV. Its footprint is more in line with the Volvo S60 sedan. The Volvo XC90 PHEV is a genuine three-row luxury SUV, offering more cargo room, an actual SUV stance, and a higher utility factor than the Tesla. More importantly, the Volvo XC90 PHEV can drive on electric power for the length of a typical commute, then turn the gas engine back on for a 100% reduction in electric range anxiety. Tesla only makes EVs, and in the case of the gizmo-obsessed, appliance-like Model Y, they certainly haven't made a luxury car.
Bryan Barton, General Manager
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the safety features offered in the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. the Tesla Model Y?
The Volvo XC90 PHEV is competitive with Tesla Model Y safety features. Where the Tesla Model Y relies on its Supervised Self-Driving1 technology to keep you safe, the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid provides Pilot Assist alongside innovative features like Adaptive Cruise Control and BLISâ„¢. That's why the Volvo XC90 PHEV earned a Top Safety Pick+ award for 2025,7 while the Tesla Model Y received no award.8
What is the range of the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. the Tesla Model Y?
The Tesla Model Y has great all-electric range, with an estimated 327 miles on a full charge.3 However, because it eschews a gas engine, you lose out on the decades of efficiency that embolden the Volvo XC90 PHEV. With that SUV's T8 powertrain, you unleash up to 530 miles2 on a full gas tank and a full battery, letting you explore much further.
How does the performance of the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid compare to the Tesla Model Y?
Tesla has not posted official specifications for the Model Y, but we do know that the Volvo XC90 PHEV engine provides up to 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain has standard AWD, keeping you in full control during stellar acceleration, emboldened by an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Model Y uses a single-speed motor and reportedly lower horsepower and torque specs.
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Read More Volvo Research In San Antonio, TX:
1This available feature requires active driver supervision and does not make the vehicle autonomous. The activation and use of these features are dependent on achieving reliability far in excess of human drivers as demonstrated by billions of miles of experience, as well as regulatory approval, which may take longer in some jurisdictions. As these self-driving features evolve, your car will be continuously upgraded through over-the-air software updates.
2EPA estimate. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov
3Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov
4When properly equipped.
5When properly equipped with optional Towing Package. Required accessories for towing vary by model. See Owner's Manual for details.
6Volvo Cars recommends that you bring your vehicle in for service at least once a year regardless of mileage. In such cases Volvo will cover the recommended services at 1 per year for the first 3 years.
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/volvo/xc90-plug-in-hybrid-4-door-suv/2025
8Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/tesla/model-y-4-door-suv/2025
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