2025 Volvo XC90 vs EX90: Which 7-Seater SUV Handles Family Vacations Better?

Planning a family vacation with seven people? You need the right SUV. The 2025 Volvo XC90 and EX90 both seat seven passengers, but they work very differently. The XC90 runs on both gas and electric power. The EX90 runs only on batteries.

Here's how they compare for your next family adventure.

How Far Can You Drive?

The XC90 plug-in hybrid gives you 53 km on electric power alone, then switches to its gas engine for unlimited range. You can fill up at any gas station and drive anywhere without planning charging stops. It uses 8.9 L/100km overall.

The EX90 electric travels 499 km on one charge. You can recharge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes at fast charging stations. This works great for regular vacation spots with good charging networks, but requires more planning for remote destinations.

The XC90 wins for spontaneous cottage trips or remote camping. The EX90 works well for established routes with reliable charging infrastructure.

Space for Your Family and Gear

Both SUVs have seven real seats where adults can sit comfortably, not just kids squeezed into a back row.

The EX90 gives you almost 300 litres more cargo space for camping gear, sports equipment, and suitcases. Its extra front storage compartment keeps valuables secure and out of sight. Both SUVs fold their rear seats with the push of a button.

Entertainment for Long Drives

The EX90 has a 14.5-inch main screen and 9-inch driver display. You can stream videos when parked, which helps during charging stops. Google apps work directly through the system without connecting your phone. The available Bowers & Wilkins sound system fills the cabin with clear audio.

The XC90 uses an 11.2-inch screen with the same Google integration. You get four years of free data service for navigation and streaming. The available Harman Kardon system delivers quality sound throughout all three rows.

Both systems respond to voice commands for climate control, navigation, and music selection. Your family can access entertainment without cables or complicated setup.

Towing Your Boat or Trailer

Need to pull a boat or travel trailer? The XC90 handles up to 2,250 kg while the EX90 manages 2,200 kg. Both capacities work for most family recreation needs.

The XC90's gas engine provides consistent power for mountain driving with heavy loads. You won't worry about reduced range affecting your travel plans. The EX90's electric motors deliver instant torque for confident acceleration, but towing significantly reduces your driving range.

Available air suspension on both models adjusts ride height automatically for trailer coupling or improved ground clearance on rough cottage roads.

Winter Driving and Weather Performance

Both SUVs include all-wheel drive as standard equipment. They handle snow, ice, and wet conditions confidently. The XC90's gas engine starts reliably in extreme cold. The EX90's battery system functions in winter weather but provides less range when temperatures drop significantly.

Cold weather affects all electric vehicles. Plan for shorter driving distances during winter vacation travel with the EX90.

Safety Features You Get

Both SUVs include cameras and sensors that monitor your surroundings constantly. Automatic emergency braking activates if you don't respond to warnings. Lane keeping assistance gently steers you back if you drift. Blind spot monitoring alerts you to vehicles in adjacent lanes.

The EX90 adds newer technology like driver attention monitoring that watches your eye movements and steering patterns. Occupant sensing can detect if someone remains in the vehicle after you lock the doors.

Making Your Choice

Choose the XC90 if you take long trips to remote areas, want unlimited driving range without planning, or tow heavy loads frequently. The gas engine backup eliminates range anxiety completely.

Choose the EX90 if you usually travel to destinations with good charging infrastructure, want lower daily operating costs, or prefer the latest technology features. The extra cargo space also helps large families.

Your Next Step

Both SUVs handle family vacation duties well, but serve different travel styles. The XC90 offers flexibility and familiar refueling. The EX90 provides more space and lower operating costs.

Visit Volvo Cars Oakville to experience both vehicles back-to-back. Drive them on highway speeds, test the third-row comfort, and see which powertrain approach aligns with your family's vacation habits and comfort level with charging infrastructure.