Can the 2026 Volvo XC90 B6 Mild Hybrid Handle Your Cottage Towing Needs?

If you've been eyeing the 2026 Volvo XC90 B6 AWD but aren't ready to commit to plug-in hybrid ownership, you're likely asking one crucial question: is the mild hybrid powertrain capable enough for real-world towing? If you're hauling a boat to Georgian Bay or towing a camper for weekend getaways across Ontario, understanding the B6's capabilities matters before you make your purchase decision.

Volvo engineered the XC90 B6 to deliver genuine utility alongside its refined Scandinavian design. With a maximum towing capacity of 2,250 kg (4,961 lbs) and a supercharged-turbocharged powertrain, this mild hybrid SUV is built to handle substantial loads without requiring you to plug in every night.

Understanding the B6 Mild Hybrid Powertrain

The 2026 XC90 B6 AWD uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that pairs both supercharging and turbocharging to maximize power delivery across the rev range. This dual-forced-induction setup produces 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque - a broad torque band that proves useful when accelerating with a trailer attached.

The "mild hybrid" designation refers to the integrated 48-volt starter generator system that adds 10 kW of electric assistance during acceleration. While this electric motor doesn't provide the pure-electric driving capability of the T8 plug-in hybrid, it does smooth out power delivery, reduce turbo lag, and improve fuel efficiency during everyday driving. The system works with the gasoline engine without requiring any charging infrastructure or behaviour changes from the driver.

Power reaches all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission and Volvo's all-wheel-drive system. The B6 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds - quick enough for confident highway merging even when towing - and reaches a top speed of 180 km/h. Combined fuel economy is rated at 10.4 L/100 km under normal driving conditions.

Towing Capacity and Real-World Capability

The XC90 B6 AWD is rated to tow up to 2,250 kg (4,961 lbs) when properly equipped with a trailer brake. This capacity accommodates a wide range of recreational equipment common among Ontario families:

• Mid-sized travel trailers: Most travel trailers in the 20-24 foot range fall comfortably within the B6's towing limits
• Boat and trailer combinations: Typical runabouts and bowriders with aluminum trailers fit well under the maximum capacity
• Utility trailers: Landscape trailers, enclosed cargo trailers, and equipment haulers are easily managed
• Small campers: Teardrop trailers and lightweight camping trailers are minimal load for the XC90

The B6's 223 mm of ground clearance (standard suspension) and 450 mm wading capability provide adequate clearance for boat ramps and cottage access roads. Approach and departure angles of 21.0 degrees ensure the XC90 won't scrape when navigating uneven terrain or steep driveways.

One practical advantage of the B6 over the heavier T8 plug-in hybrid is curb weight. At 2,106 to 2,136 kg depending on configuration, the B6 weighs approximately 200 kg less than the T8 variant. This weight difference translates to better payload capacity for passengers and cargo when towing near the maximum limit.

Comparing B6 Towing Performance

Within the luxury three-row SUV segment, the XC90 B6's 2,250 kg (4,961 lbs) towing capacity positions it competitively. The B6's towing rating matches what most families need for recreational towing without stepping up to body-on-frame SUVs or trucks.

The supercharged-turbocharged engine delivers its peak torque low in the rev range, which helps when pulling away from stops with a loaded trailer. Volvo's all-wheel-drive system continuously monitors traction and distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed. This active management proves valuable when launching on slippery boat ramps or navigating gravel cottage roads with a trailer in tow.

Is the B6 Enough, or Should You Explore the T8?

For most recreational towing scenarios in Ontario, the XC90 B6 provides ample capability. The 2,250 kg (4,961 lbs) rating accommodates the majority of travel trailers, boats, and utility trailers that families actually own and use regularly.

The T8 plug-in hybrid offers identical towing capacity (also 2,250 kg / 4,961 lbs) but adds 160 hp of combined output for a total of 455 hp. This extra power primarily benefits acceleration when towing - the T8 reaches 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds compared to the B6's 6.7 seconds. However, both powertrains deliver sufficient torque for confident towing performance on hills and during highway passing manoeuvres.

The decision between B6 and T8 typically comes down to daily driving patterns rather than towing capability. If you have a short commute and access to home charging, the T8's 53 km of electric range can eliminate gasoline consumption for everyday errands while maintaining full towing capability for weekend trips. If you prioritize simplicity and don't want to manage charging schedules, the B6 delivers the same towing capacity with conventional refuelling.

Preparing Your XC90 B6 for Towing

Before hitching up a trailer, ensure your XC90 is properly equipped and configured:

Weight Distribution: Load the trailer with 10% to 15% of total weight on the tongue to maintain stable handling. Excessive tongue weight can overload the rear suspension, while insufficient weight allows the trailer to sway.

Tire Pressure: Check and adjust tire pressure according to Volvo's specifications for towing. Proper inflation improves handling stability and reduces tire wear when carrying additional load.

Brake Controller: The XC90 includes integrated trailer brake control. Ensure the system is properly calibrated for your specific trailer to maximize stopping performance and reduce wear on the vehicle's brakes.

Mirrors: Add extension mirrors if your trailer is wider than the XC90. Proper visibility of the trailer and surrounding traffic is necessary for safe lane changes and reversing.

The XC90's standard driver assistance technologies continue to function while towing, though some systems adjust their sensitivity or intervention thresholds when a trailer is detected. Adaptive cruise control, for example, increases following distances to account for longer stopping distances when towing.

Your XC90 B6 Awaits at Volvo Cars Oakville

The 2026 Volvo XC90 B6 AWD delivers the towing capability most Ontario families need without requiring plug-in hybrid complexity. With a maximum towing capacity of 2,250 kg (4,961 lbs), this mild-hybrid SUV handles recreational trailers, boats, and utility loads with confidence while maintaining Volvo's signature refinement and safety focus.

Visit Volvo Cars Oakville to discuss your specific towing needs and experience the XC90 B6 in person. Our product specialists can help you configure the right XC90 for your lifestyle and ensure you have the proper equipment for safe, confident towing.