Volvo XC90 Recharge

How it looks on the street: The form language of Volvo’s largest vehicle, this midsize SUV, expresses itself as a conduit for leisure and ease suited for a party of seven. Its steady the course for the 2024 model year, building off the second generation introduced in 2016. News wheels are among the small tweaks in recent times.

How it makes you feel when you get in: XC90 has spa vibes on the interior that is very much powered by Google tech on the 12.3 digital dash. As this interface evolves, it becomes more intutitive for users of Google, which is a good thing. The optional Bowers and Wilkens premium sound system enhances the warm cabin experience. Power-everything seats with side support and condition extensions. Niceties such heated rear and front seats, and heated steering wheel add to the creature comforts. It has accessible USB-C port in front and back. Our vehicle had Nappa leather, but sustainable cloth seats are offered.

How it drives: XC90 in both gas and plug-in hybrid form is a smooth sailor that earns 27 mile per gallon (MPG) and 58 MPG on EV miles for a total 36 miles of electric range, which is enough for the average daily commute and recaptures some its range through regenerative braking. The plug-in hybrid model we drove — earmarked as Recharge — had standard all-wheel drive and produced 455-horsepower.

Space for people and things:  Ample interior space  in first two rows. Typical of vehicles in this class, the third row is a little snug. It’s got a decent trunk, but interior compartments aren't as cavernous as in some competitors.

What should you compare it to: Audi Q7, BMW X5, Acura MDX, and Mercedes-Benz GLE.

How much does it cost: Our test vehicle was $85,495.