For over 20 years, Volvo has been defining what an exceptional SUV means. Since the launch of the XC90 in 2002, Volvo’s line of SUVs has expanded considerably, now catering to a greater audience and use cases, including the introduction of hybrid and electric models to meet modern environmental regulations.

Volvo has utilised an intuitive naming system for their SUVs that we’ll break down and explain so that you can decide which Volvo SUV is right for you.

Volvo SUV range explained

Volvo’s SUV line is split into two main sections, the XC line and the EX line. XC stands for Cross Country, with the EX line being the electric counterpart of the XC line. Volvo has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by applying the same level of design, engineering and comfort to its all-electric line, offering drivers the choice between a mild-hybrid vehicle or an all-electric car without compromise.

  • XC40: The smallest in the XC line, this mild-hybrid starts at just over £35,000 and offers an excellent entry point into Volvo SUVs.
  • XC60: A step up in size and performance from the XC40, the XC60 is the middle sibling of the XC line, offering some of the benefits of a larger SUV without some of the drawbacks.
  • XC90: A modern take on the car that started Volvo’s foray into SUVs. The XC90 is the largest in the line, offering the most space, the most power, and the largest road presence.
  • EX30: The EX30 offers exceptional electric performance in a small package. The smallest car in Volvo’s line of SUVs, but still packed with technology and storage space.
  • EX40: The all-electric equivalent of the XC40, the EX40 delivers all of the thrills of the compact XC40 with none of the tailpipe emissions.
  • EX90: The most powerful, most luxurious electric SUV that Volvo offers, the EX90 sits at the peak of the EX line with 7 seats and plenty of space for a growing family.

Understanding the Volvo SUV models

All Volvo SUVs come with fantastic design and attention to detail, but there are slight differences in their trim levels, with the larger vehicles coming with more kit as standard.

XC40

The XC40 comes with 5 seats, a combined fuel economy of 42.8mpg, a max towing capacity of 2,000kg, and a boot capacity of 443 litres which can be boosted up to 1,319 by folding the rear seats down. Packed full of technology such as a large touch screen with Google Assistant installed alongside premium sound systems as optional extras, the XC40 is a fantastic offering in such a relatively small car. The XC40 starts at £ 35,254 for the Core model.

XC60

A slight jump in size from the XC40 with increased boot space, more power and towing capacity, the XC60 serves as a great option for small families looking to make use of their car for staycations, jumping on a ferry, or maybe just doing the school run in the comfort of active air suspension. Safety and technology are also beautifully implemented in the XC60, offering Blind Spot Information, Pedestrian Recognition and Cross-Traffic Alert as standard. The XC60 starts at £46,245 for the Core model.

XC90

Being the biggest in the line, you’d expect the most storage, the most power and the highest towing capacity, and you wouldn’t be wrong. The XC90 also offers 7 seats for growing families. The Ultra trim level delivers front seat ventilation and massage alongside Bowers and Wilkins High Fidelity audio system with wireless phone charging and Google Assistant included for 4 years. The XC90 is ideal for those who want the ultimate luxury Volvo SUV.

EX30

The smallest in the Volvo SUV line, the EX30 is also the nippiest with an impressive 0-60 speed of just 3.6 seconds, rivalling sports cars! The EX30 boasts a range of up to 295.8 miles with 10-80% charging taking just 28 minutes, getting you back on the road to enjoy CO2-free driving. The EX30 drops the Core trim level in favour of the two more luxurious Plus and Ultra trim levels delivering more luxury as standard.

EX40

The slightly larger EX40 gives a jump up in size and range, with extra boot space and more leg room for passengers. Inside you can expect the same premium feel that comes with all Volvo SUVs alongside convenient cargo spaces that can only be found on the EX line. The interior is beautifully designed with sustainable materials to match the EX40’s commitment to a green future.

EX90

The big brother of the EX40, the EX90 offers the most cargo space and longest range of the all-electric line, offering uncompromising luxury and comfort while delivering this. The EX90’s Ultra trim level offers advanced air purification so that you can breathe easy during your morning commute. A 360 camera provides an extra blanket of comfort helping you to fit snuggly into parking spaces or avoid potential accidents.

How to choose the right Volvo SUV for you

When selecting a new Volvo SUV, you should consider how you plan to use your shiny new car. If you are a large family who frequently ventures longer distances, then you might opt for the XC90 or EX90 because of their large cargo capacity and option for 7 seats.

If you use your car purely for the school run and the odd trip to the shops, the compact EX30 might be your best option because of its fantastic capabilities for town driving.

Premium features are available with all Volvo SUVs thanks to their range of trim levels, so this is only a consideration if you’re looking for a specific feature like Harman Kardon speakers.

Whichever Volvo SUV you set your heart on, Brindley will be there to offer a helping hand, using their years of experience to provide you with premium service that goes hand-in-hand with a premium SUV.

Book a test drive today with Brindley to see which Volvo meets your needs.