With its Scandinavian design and peerless safety, the 2023 Volvo XC90 sets itself apart. Its sleek bodywork and elegant interior make it appealing and comfortable. And its high-strength unibody and driver’s assistance technology make every drive feel more secure.

But when you’re ready to buy an XC90, which trim offers the best value and features? Let’s look at the 2023 Volvo XC90 configurations to find out.

2023 Volvo XC90 trims and specs

No matter the trim, the 2023 Volvo XC90 is a premium SUV. Here’s the rundown of configurations and what’s included.

The $57,095 Core trim’s features include:

• Panoramic moonroof

•All-wheel drive

• 19-inch wheels

• Hill descent control

• B5 mild-hybrid powertrain (247 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque)

Moving up to the $60,995 Plus trim adds:

• 360-degree camera

• Heated steering wheel

• Leather upholstery

• 20-inch alloy wheels

• B5 mild-hybrid powertrain (247 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque)

And the top-of-the-line $70,295 Volvo XC90 Ultimate trim brings:

• Premium Audio by Harmon Kardon

• Head-up display

• Front seat ventilation

• 21-inch alloy wheels

• B6 mild-hybrid powertrain (295 hp, 310 lb-ft of torque)

Core and Plus buyers can also opt for the B6 powertrain for an additional $3,500.

Which trim is best?

In their review of the Volvo XC90 for 2023, MotorTrend recommends the Core trim for its mix of features and value.

While the $57,095 Core trim doesn’t have the lavish add-ons of the Plus and Ultimate trims, it has the same refined styling, solid driving dynamics, and world-class safety. And it costs thousands less than both.

The XC90 Core is an especially comfortable ride, with heated front seats, four-zone climate control, and ambient lighting. Those features can make long trips more bearable and even enjoyable when you want to go exploring.

The B5 powertrain uses a turbo 2.0-liter inline-four and a 48V hybrid system for seamless acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency. An eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission handles shifts. That equates to a 0-60 mph time of 7.3 seconds and 28 mpg highway. Not bad for a three-row SUV.

And, like all Volvos, the XC90 has safety features that go above and beyond.

Volvo infuses ultra-high-strength boron steel in the XC90’s unibody, providing exceptional occupant protection. The Pilot Assist system uses cameras and radar sensors to maintain lane position and following distance. And inflatable curtain airbags prevent injuries in roll-overs or side collisions.

Additional specs of the 2023 Volvo xc90

No matter the trim, the 2023 Volvo XC90 is a unique design. While other SUVs do the job, this Swedish sport utility brings innovation and performance.

While the standard B5 powertrain provides ample power and efficiency, some may want even more off-the-line acceleration. On Core and Plus trims, opting for the B6 powertrain costs $3,900 but adds 48 hp and 52 lb-ft of torque. That results in an even quicker 0-60 mph time of 6.4 seconds. And fuel efficiency is still a respectable 26 mpg highway.

You face hazards like oncoming traffic, adverse road conditions, and weather events wherever you drive. The XC90 can handle them all. Standard driver’s assistance features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. And since the 2023 XC90 received top safety scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), you know you’re protected in a collision.

And for those who enjoy the latest and greatest technology, the 2023 XC90 delivers with its Google-based infotainment system. Drivers can stay focused on the road with Google Assistant’s voice recognition technology, and Apple CarPlay allows easy connectivity. An optional 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system provides crystal-clear audio for listening to your favorite tunes.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 is an appealing choice compared to more average SUVs. Not only do you get class-leading safety, but also innovative powertrains. And with the Core trim’s reasonable price, a worthwhile value.