Volvo XC90 T8 review: why the hybrid SUV still matters in the age of electric cars

As Volvo prepares to launch the EX60, the long-running XC90 T8 shows why hybrids still make commercial sense

The XC90 T8 Hybrid is a top-drawer SUV with seven seats, something which is quite rare. 

VOLVO XC90 T8
Rating	★★★★☆
Price	From €95,995 to €111,645 as tested
Engine	A 2ltr PHEV with 455bhp
The Spec	Truly outstanding — it almost has to be seen to be believed
Verdict	May be about to be outshone by Volvo’s new electric but shows the company at the top of its game

IN A week during which Volvo unveiled the new EX60 — a new, all-electric mid-size SUV that changes the game in the largest electric market segment in terms of range, charging speed, performance, and price — we’re actually looking back in time at an older, more traditional car from the Swedish firm.

The XC90 T8 hybrid is actually a car that might never have seen the light of day had it not been for initial market resistance to the blossoming new world of EVs... but it is with us and is a fine example of a car maker being extremely sensible with regard to its bottom line.