Audi Q8 vs. Volvo XC90: Complete comparison 2026

The Audi Q8, which you can also find on the market in its sporty derivatives under the SQ8 or RSQ8 designations, represents the pinnacle of the luxury SUV range with a dynamic coupe silhouette and a strong focus on cutting-edge technology and driving characteristics. In contrast, the Volvo XC90, whose sought-after plug-in hybrid variant bears the name Recharge, embodies traditional Scandinavian elegance with an absolute emphasis on safety, generous interior space, and maximum comfort for up to seven passengers. Let's take a detailed look at how these two different approaches to a premium SUV fare in a head-to-head battle and which model represents a more attractive choice for your daily needs.

When looking at the external dimensions of both premium SUVs, focusing on models available on the market as roughly four-year-old used cars, the different philosophies of the two brands are clearly evident. While the Audi Q8 (4M generation) bets on a sporty and wide-stanced posture evoking dynamism, the Volvo XC90 (second generation) sticks to a more traditional, majestic silhouette of a classic family cruiser.

Audi Q8 measures 4986 to 4992 mm in length, slightly exceeding the Volvo XC90 and its 4950 to 4953 mm by about 36 mm. An even more significant difference can be found in the overall width, where the German representative, with its impressive 1995 mm, appears exceptionally dominant on the road. Standard versions of the Swedish Volvo are noticeably narrower at 1923 to 1931 mm (specific T8 versions may have a slightly higher value due to wider arches and mirrors), which in practice represents a huge advantage when maneuvering. You will definitely appreciate the roughly six to seven centimeters less width of the Volvo when parking in tight underground garages or crowded city streets.

Where the Swedish SUV dominates, on the other hand, is the overall height. At 1771 to 1776 mm, it towers over the sportily tuned Audi (1697 to 1705 mm) by an impressive seven centimeters. This height difference has a positive impact not only on a more commanding view from the car but, above all, on more generous headroom for all passengers. The wheelbase is very generous in both cars – the Audi Q8 offers a range of 2995 to 2998 mm, which is slightly more than the 2984 mm of the Volvo XC90. The Audi's longer wheelbase contributes to exemplary directional stability at high highway speeds.

Overall, the physical proportions clearly suggest who the cars are intended for. The Volvo XC90 is the embodiment of a practical family car, which, thanks to its taller and slightly narrower build, better masks its giant dimensions in the city and offers more vertical interior space. The Audi Q8, by contrast, is an uncompromising style icon – its wider, lower, and more aggressive silhouette pleases the eye and enhances its sporty presence on the road, albeit at the cost of slightly more challenging parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.

When choosing a family or luxury car, the size of the luggage compartment often plays a key role. This is especially true if you plan on frequent travel with children, transporting sports equipment, or simply need enough space for large family shopping trips. In this regard, the approach of the two carmakers differs quite significantly. While the second-generation Volvo XC90 was designed from the very beginning as a maximally practical and spacious family SUV, the Audi Q8 (4M generation) bets on a sportier silhouette evoking a coupe. This approach naturally takes a certain toll on the overall transport capacity. Both generations, currently very well represented on the market for roughly four-year-old used cars, thus target a slightly different group of drivers.

In terms of specific numbers, the standard internal combustion version of the Volvo XC90 offers a basic luggage volume of 680 liters, which can be increased to an impressive 1,874 liters after fully folding the rear seats. In contrast, the Audi Q8 has 605 liters as standard and offers a maximum of 1,755 liters after folding the backrests. For both models, however, it is necessary to remember that if you opt for the popular plug-in hybrid powertrains, the available space will decrease due to the installation of traction batteries under the floor. In the Audi Q8 TFSI e, the basic volume drops to 505 liters (maximum 1,625 liters), while the electrified Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge has to settle for a basic volume of 640 liters and a total of 1,816 liters.

In practice, these design differences mean that although the Audi Q8's luggage compartment is more than sufficient for a regular weekend shopping trip or a longer holiday for four, the sharply sloping roofline may limit you when transporting bulkier boxes or tall items. Volvo, on the other hand, thanks to its boxier and more upright body, easily offers space for several extra suitcases, an unfolded stroller, and other family essentials, without the need for complex organization of the loaded cargo.

Comparison of luggage compartment volume

In conclusion, if everyday family practicality and the ability to transport larger cargo are your top priorities, the Swedish representative will be a much more versatile companion. For those who, on the contrary, prefer a dynamic style and can do without the absolute maximum of usable liters, the Audi Q8's trunk represents a sufficiently sized and stylish compromise.

The ability to tow heavy trailers is often a decisive factor when choosing a large premium SUV. Whether you plan to transport a boat, a horse trailer, or a bulky family caravan, both vehicles offer extraordinary utility value on the used car market. However, in absolute numbers and maximum trailer weight values, we find interesting differences.

For used cars approximately four years old (around production years 2021–2022), the Audi Q8 dominates in pure towing power:

• Internal combustion models: Standard versions, such as the popular 50 TDI diesel or 55 TFSI petrol, can easily handle a braked trailer weighing 2800 kg.
• Plug-in hybrid maximum: The top hybrid model, the Audi Q8 60 TFSI e (from 2020–2022), reaches extreme values, managing to tow an impressive 3500 kg.
• Electric alternative: If you were to choose the purely electric Audi Q8 e-tron (GE) models, the capacity drops to 1800 kg, which is a typical technological limitation for heavy electric vehicles.

The competing Volvo XC90 (2nd generation) relies on slightly more modest, but still highly above-average values for most buyers:

• Strongest workhorses: More powerful versions with internal combustion engines, such as the B5 Diesel, T6, or B6, have a towing capacity set at a maximum of 2700 kg.
• Hybrids and petrol versions: For the popular T8 (Recharge) plug-in hybrids and B5 petrol mild-hybrids, the capacity drops to 2350 to 2400 kg (depending on the specific model year).

In practice, these values mean that even with the Volvo, you are guaranteed sufficient towing power for a large twin-axle family caravan, representing an ideal solution for a comfortable and long holiday across Europe. However, the advantage of the Audi Q8, stemming from the ability to hitch a trailer weighing up to 3.5 tonnes, provides owners with invaluable extra margin – whether for professional use, absolute stability of the combination, or safe handling of a huge motor yacht.

Final verdict: While the Volvo XC90 represents a trouble-free and versatile companion that will satisfy the vast majority of family and recreational needs, the Audi Q8, thanks to its more robust construction and towing power, is the clear choice for the most demanding transport tasks.

Engines and Performance

When comparing the engine lineups of these two luxury SUVs, we encounter completely different engineering philosophies that have a fundamental impact on daily operation and the preferences of buyers in the used car market. For roughly four-year-old models, the Audi Q8 relies exclusively on robust three-liter six-cylinder engines, which guarantee silky smooth operation, massive towing power, and excellent dynamics even under full load. The Volvo XC90, on the other hand, bets on modular two-liter four-cylinder engines, cleverly compensating for the smaller displacement with advanced electrification in the form of mild-hybrid and very powerful plug-in hybrid systems. While basic diesel versions like the Audi Q8 45 TDI (170 kW) and Volvo XC90 B5 Diesel (173 kW) aim for maximum range and efficiency on long journeys, the top-tier versions – the Audi 60 TFSI e (340 kW) and Volvo T8 Recharge (up to 335 kW) – offer stunning combined output for drivers who demand quick acceleration and the possibility of locally emission-free driving. From an operational perspective, Audi's unwavering TDI six-cylinder units will appeal more to highway travelers and owners of heavy trailers, while Volvo's four-cylinder hybrids excel with extraordinary efficiency in combined and suburban driving.

Audi Q8

The engine range for the Audi Q8 from around 2022 (4M generation) is built exclusively on proven three-liter V6 engines. These are always precisely matched with intelligent quattro all-wheel drive and a reliable eight-speed Tiptronic transmission. The base for highway drivers is the 45 TDI diesel version (170 kW); however, the more powerful 50 TDI variant (210 kW) is by far the most sought-after and common among used cars. Its massive 600 Nm of torque represents an ideal choice for a sportily-styled SUV weighing over two tons. Petrol proponents can opt for the very refined 55 TFSI unit (250 kW). For drivers looking for a combination of high performance and quiet city driving, Audi also added the 55 TFSI e and the top-of-the-line 60 TFSI e plug-in hybrid models to the range from 2020, with a combined output of up to 340 kW. All standard internal combustion versions of the Q8, without exception, feature a 48V mild-hybrid (MHEV) system that smooths out the operation of the start-stop system and helps save fuel while coasting.

Volvo XC90

Under the hood of the Volvo XC90 from around 2022, you will find exclusively two-liter inline four-cylinder engines, where the Nordic automaker replaced large displacement with sophisticated forced induction and widespread electrification. If you are looking for a roughly four-year-old used car on the market, you will encounter exclusively "B" series mild-hybrid engines (available since 2019/2020). Older classic diesels (D4, D5) and pure internal combustion petrol engines (T5, T6) from the early years of the second generation's production have logically completely disappeared from the listings at this age. The B5 (184 kW) and rarer B6 (220 kW) petrol variants are complemented by the highly sought-after B5 Diesel mild-hybrid with 173 kW and a decent pull of 480 Nm. The brand's technological jewel is the T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid variant (formerly known as Twin Engine). This combines a turbocharged and supercharged internal combustion engine with a powerful electric motor on the rear axle. At the end of 2021, the T8 system underwent an extensive modernization, which increased the combined output to a stunning 335 kW, and an enlarged battery significantly extended the pure electric range. All-wheel drive (AWD) and an eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission are standard across this entire newer model range.

Choosing the right power unit is absolutely critical for long-term satisfaction with heavy premium SUVs. While the Audi Q8 in its current 4M generation relies on traditional, silky-smooth V6 engines with a huge power reserve, Volvo took a very radical step with the second generation of the XC90. Under the Swedish hood, you will find exclusively two-liter four-cylinder engines across all versions, which compensate for their lack of displacement with sophisticated forced induction and massive electrification. The following recommendations for roughly four-year-old used cars are therefore based primarily on real-world fuel consumption, mechanical durability, and everyday user-friendliness confirmed by owners themselves.

For the Audi Q8, we recommend: 50 TDI quattro (210 kW)

In the market for late-model used cars (focusing on model years 2020–2022), the 50 TDI V6 diesel represents the absolute best and most balanced choice from the range at that time. Given that the massive Q8 weighs over 2.2 tons, the robust 600 Nm of torque available from low revs is exactly what the car needs for effortless and confident dynamics.

• Strengths: The engine offers exemplary refinement and cabin quietness. Furthermore, on the highway and during long-distance trips, it can maintain real-world consumption very pleasantly between 8 and 9 liters per 100 km, which is a great result considering the size and all-wheel drive.
• Risks and Maintenance: The biggest and essentially only significant weakness of this engine is the relatively well-known lag of the eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission during sharp starts. If you encounter a car during a test drive that hesitates unpleasantly and for a long time after stepping on the gas at an intersection, this can be partially mitigated by a software update at an authorized service center or by switching the transmission to Sport mode. Also, pay attention to the condition of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) in cars that the previous owner subjected to cold, short city hops.
• Who it's ideal for: While gasoline V6s like the 55 TFSI please with sharper response and better sound, their real-world consumption easily exceeds 11 to 12 liters. The 50 TDI diesel is therefore an unrivaled choice for managers and drivers covering thousands of kilometers on highways who are looking for the ideal balance between dynamics and reasonable operating costs.

For the Volvo XC90, we recommend: B5 Diesel AWD (173 kW)

For a luxury seven-seater family cruiser like the Volvo XC90, despite all the plug-in hybrid trends, the B5 Diesel mild-hybrid (commonly available between 2020–2024) makes the most sense as a trouble-free used car. It is a very mature evolution of the previous D5 engine. Although it is "only" a diesel four-cylinder, thanks to the presence of a 48V electrical system, the engine's operation is smoothed out, and the start-stop system's performance is incomparably smoother and faster than in older versions.

• Strengths: The engine masks its lack of displacement surprisingly well thanks to the unique PowerPulse technology, which blows compressed air from a special tank into the turbocharger, allowing it to spin up instantly and eliminating the dreaded "turbo lag." Furthermore, the fuel consumption of such a huge and boxy SUV easily fits within the range of 7.5 to 8.5 liters per 100 km.
• Risks and Maintenance: When inspecting the car at a dealership with a mechanic, be sure to visually check the PowerPulse system's pressure hose. Especially in older model years, this hose tended to crack or come loose under pressure (this can be heard as a more pronounced hissing under the hood during sharp acceleration). Fortunately, the manufacturer later switched to modified and more durable parts. As with the Audi, it is an absolute necessity to check for carbon buildup in the EGR valve on city-driven cars.
• Who it's ideal for: While the tempting and frequently available T8 plug-in hybrid versions offer massive power, as a four-year-old used car approaching the end of its factory warranty, they represent an unnecessarily large service and financial risk due to their extreme complexity (a combination of a supercharger, turbo, and electric motor). The B5 Diesel is thus an ideal companion for families who value a smooth driving style, maximum safety, and high annual mileage with frequent vacations.

In general, the official fuel consumption figures provided by manufacturers often differ significantly from real-world values in everyday traffic. This is doubly true for heavy and large premium SUVs like the Audi Q8 and Volvo XC90. While these vehicles achieve very optimistic numbers in laboratories, physics and a weight exceeding two tons simply cannot be cheated on the road.

To get the most accurate picture of actual operating costs in the used car market (focusing on models roughly four years old, i.e., around 2021 and 2022), we rely on long-term user data from the independent portal Spritmonitor.de. This source aggregates real-world refueling data from everyday drivers and provides a much more realistic view of how much fuel the cars consume in daily life.

Looking at the real-world data, the interpretation of trends is quite clear. When it comes to long-distance driving, diesel engines remain the unsurpassed choice in this category. An interesting finding is that although the Volvo XC90 exclusively uses smaller two-liter four-cylinder engines, the fuel savings compared to the large three-liter six-cylinder in the Audi are not at all vast on the highway. The heavy Volvo puts more strain on the smaller engine, which is why the advantage of the B5 Diesel variant (8.3 l/100 km) over the more powerful 50 TDI (9.0 l/100 km) is rather marginal. Petrol engines in both models traditionally lag behind; with the powerful Audi Q8 55 TFSI, you must expect consumption regularly exceeding the 11-liter mark. A surprise for many might be the real-world consumption of plug-in hybrids (PHEV) for both models, which on paper promise driving almost "for free". If you don't recharge the battery regularly, the vehicles behave like standard heavy hybrids, and the average usually settles around 7 liters.

What does this mean for the typical user? If you are a driver who spends a lot of time on highways or commutes hundreds of kilometers a week, traditional diesel variants are still the most practical and economical choice for you without the need for any compromises. For families and suburban drivers who have the opportunity to reliably charge the car at home overnight and at work, the plug-in hybrid makes the most sense. With it, you can reduce real fuel costs for shorter daily routes to an absolute minimum. Pure petrol versions are intended more for buyers with lower annual mileage who prioritize absolute refinement of operation.

In conclusion, although the Volvo XC90 achieves slightly better average values than the larger-displacement Audi Q8 thanks to its smaller engines, the differences in costs will not be fatal for buyers in this premium used car price category. Fuel consumption itself is therefore unlikely to be the main deciding factor between these two cars. It is much more important to choose the right type of powertrain based on your personal route profile.

Used Car Prices and Depreciation

The used car market clearly shows the different approaches of both manufacturers and their different target groups. While the Swedish SUV bets on family practicality, the German representative scores with customers through its aggressive style, which is significantly reflected in both purchase prices and residual value.

• Audi Q8: In the luxury SUV segment, Audi holds its price quite confidently. For roughly four-year-old models (most often 2021 and 2022 model years) with the popular 50 TDI diesel engine, prices most often range between €54,000 and €74,000. Versions with the attractive S line exterior package and premium equipment tend to target the upper end of this spectrum. Extremely powerful sports models like the SQ8 and RS Q8 then require a much higher budget, which can easily exceed €103,000.
• Volvo XC90: Volvo is noticeably more affordable on the secondary market, making it an unexpectedly rational and financially interesting choice for used car buyers. Four-year-old examples (2021 and 2022 model years) with the proven B5 AWD mild-hybrid diesel can be found starting from €35,000. Better-equipped models labeled Inscription or the sportier R-Design versions are usually available for up to €49,000. Even the very powerful and technically advanced Recharge T8 plug-in hybrid usually fits comfortably under the €62,000 mark.

When comparing residual value, it is clear that the Volvo XC90 experiences a slightly steeper price drop in its early years than its competitor from Ingolstadt. For a used car buyer, however, this is a clear advantage – they get a luxurious, extremely safe, and immensely spacious SUV for just a fraction of the original purchase price. Audi, on the other hand, skillfully benefits from the more premium image of its muscular SUV-coupe body, and its overall price decline on the used market is more gradual.

Safety is one of the main criteria for those interested in large premium SUVs, and the reassuring news is that both used cars excel in this regard. Both the Audi Q8 and the Volvo XC90 received the maximum five-star rating in independent Euro NCAP tests. However, it is crucial to put these results into the correct temporal context. The Euro NCAP methodology is constantly evolving and significantly tightens its requirements every few years. Percentage scores from different years cannot be directly compared because newer protocols include more demanding frontal crash simulations, more advanced cyclist detection, or emergency braking at intersections.

Audi Q8 (Tested in 2019)

The Audi Q8 underwent crash tests in 2019, thus facing more modern and stricter safety standards. The car easily took home five stars with an excellent score of 93% for adult protection and 87% for child protection. Active safety systems received a solid 73%. Although this percentage may seem lower at first glance compared to older cars, it reflects the application of much tougher scenarios for autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and lane-keeping systems. Even after several years, the Q8 as a used car offers a highly up-to-date protection package that meets the demands of modern traffic.

Volvo XC90 (Tested in 2015)

The second generation of the Volvo XC90 underwent Euro NCAP tests at its launch in 2015. At that time, the car completely shocked the testing committee by earning an absolute 100% for safety assistance systems and a staggering 97% for adult passenger protection. The XC90 rightfully cemented its reputation as one of the safest cars on the planet. However, it is important to know that tests a decade ago did not examine such complex assistance situations (such as complex pedestrian detection at night) as the 2019 protocols, and the validity of the original certificate has already expired according to Euro NCAP standards. In terms of structural strength, however, the XC90 body remains an absolute benchmark.

Results Overview

Both SUVs represent a fantastically safe choice on the used car market for families. The Audi Q8 benefits from newer software assistants tested under stricter conditions, while the Volvo XC90 offers a massive and time-tested construction that completely defined new limits of passive safety in its time.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers more than just basic functions, with both cars taking a completely different approach to added value and the daily driving experience.

Audi Q8: Technological Dominance and Dynamic Style

• Infotainment and connectivity: The MMI touch response system relies on a pair of large touchscreens on the center console with haptic and acoustic feedback. This layout almost eliminates traditional physical buttons and allows for extensive personalization through smart icon dragging, which strongly resembles smartphone operation.
• Chassis and handling: All-wheel steering (rear-axle steering), available as an option, reduces the car's turning radius by up to one meter when maneuvering in the city. At higher speeds, it turns the rear wheels in the same direction as the front ones, significantly increasing stability during quick lane changes.
• Electronics and lighting: Advanced HD Matrix LED headlights are technologically at the very top of their class. Not only can they smoothly and precisely shade oncoming vehicles without needing to turn off the high beams, but they also play an impressive dynamic light animation when unlocking and locking the car.
• Sporty elements and design: The Audi Q8 is visually distinguished by frameless door windows, which give the car the flair of an elegant coupe. For drivers seeking maximum dynamics, high-performance SQ8 and RSQ8 variants are available, equipped with electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS), which effectively suppresses body roll in sharp corners using a 48V system.

Volvo XC90: Scandinavian Luxury and Maximum Protection

• Smart family solutions: A huge advantage for families is the integrated pop-up child booster seat, hidden in the middle seat of the second row. This eliminates the need to handle an external car seat, which is extremely practical for the daily transport of older children.
• Interior and exclusive materials: Volvo emphasizes minimalist luxury, which in higher trims (e.g., Inscription) is highlighted by the iconic automatic gear selector made of genuine crystal from the renowned Swedish glassworks Orrefors. An exceptional alternative to traditional leather is the premium upholstery made from a real wool blend, which is breathable, naturally warm in winter, and does not overheat in summer.
• Advanced electronics and audio: The vertically oriented central display is complemented by one of the highest-quality audio systems in the automotive industry from Bowers & Wilkins. Its unique feature is the "Gothenburg Concert Hall" acoustic mode, which perfectly simulates the surround sound of the famous Swedish concert hall within the car.
• Assistance systems and safety: The brand is synonymous with safety, and the standard City Safety package only confirms this. In addition to detecting pedestrians and cyclists, the system can also identify large animals on the road (e.g., moose or deer) and brake automatically. For smooth highway travel, the car is equipped with the advanced Pilot Assist system, which ensures gentle and reliable semi-autonomous driving.

The Audi Q8 is an ideal choice for drivers looking for a prestigious and dynamic SUV with an emphasis on top-tier technology, premium materials, and driving experience. It perfectly suits used car buyers for whom aggressive styling and the confident performance of six-cylinder engines are more important than maximum carrying capacity.

The Volvo XC90 represents the benchmark of family luxury, excelling in the used car market particularly in safety, space, and interior layout variability. It is the perfect vehicle for larger families who prefer a quiet, highly comfortable ride and a timeless Scandinavian approach to design.

Based on breakdown statistics, authorized service reports, and real-world data regularly provided by our independent car technical condition inspection, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems you should watch out for in roughly four-year-old used examples of these premium SUVs.

Audi Q8

The Audi Q8 is a technologically extremely advanced SUV, which in practice brings certain specific risks, particularly in the area of sophisticated electronics and complicated powertrains.

• Mild-hybrid system (Starter-generator): By far the most well-known and serious problem with the popular six-cylinder engines (especially the 50 TDI version) is the failure of the belt-driven starter-generator (BSG). The fault manifests as a warning about an electrical system failure, followed by a complete battery drain, and often ends with the vehicle being immobilized. The manufacturer has addressed this over the years through warranty replacements and software updates.
• Electronics and MMI infotainment: Owners relatively often complain about freezing, slow starts, or the multimedia system (MMI) displays going completely black. In most cases, uploading new software helps; in more severe cases, entire control modules had to be replaced.
• Air suspension: In vehicles approaching 100,000 km or after four or more years of operation, leaks in the air bellows or a failing compressor may begin to appear. The problem first manifests as a noticeable "sagging" of the car on one wheel after being parked for an extended period.
• Rapid brake system wear: A curb weight well above the 2.2-ton mark takes its toll. Discs and pads disappear significantly faster on the heavy and powerful Q8 than on conventional family cars, which means the thickness must be checked when buying a used one.

Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 in its updated form (model years around 2021/2022) offers substantially better reliability than early versions, yet some recurring faults still occur – especially depending on the chosen engine.

• Plug-in hybrid system (T8 Recharge): In the most powerful T8 hybrid version, a known and expensive problem is a fault in the electric rear axle drive module (ERAD). The fault initially manifests as humming and mechanical noise from the rear, or potentially a complete failure of the rear electric drive.
• Infotainment and software: Models from 2022, which were the first to switch to the new system built on the Android Automotive platform (using Google services), initially suffered from unrefined software. Typical issues include crashing apps, freezing navigation, and loss of internet connection. The older Sensus system (up to 2021) is more stable at this age, albeit slower.
• Suspension and compressor: Similar to the Audi, the Volvo XC90 equipped with the optional air suspension experiences compressor failure or cracking of the lines to the bellows as age and mileage increase.
• Front axle wear parts and engine tightness: High weight affects not only faster brake wear but also earlier wear of the front arm bushings. In diesel and gasoline mild-hybrids (B5/B6), oil seepage around the valve cover or leaks in the intake tract occasionally occur.

When buying a used car, a thorough physical inspection of the used vehicle is absolutely crucial, ideally using a professional service such as CarAudit. Here are some specific points to focus on for these two models to avoid expensive surprises.

When choosing an Audi Q8:

• MMI infotainment behavior: In Q8 models around four years old, the multimedia system can suffer from software bugs, freezing, or failures of the lower climate control display. During the test drive, click through all menus and test the functionality of the 360° cameras. If the displays freeze or take suspiciously long to load, it may indicate a necessary update or an expensive replacement of the control unit.
• Engine and gearbox response: Focus on the so-called "throttle lag" – a significant delay in throttle response when pulling away. Try to accelerate gently from low speeds, or when the car is slowly coasting to an intersection with the start-stop system active. The gearbox should react smoothly without long hesitation followed by a harsh jolt of the entire vehicle.
• Condition of the 48V mild-hybrid system (alternator): This is a well-known weakness of the six-cylinder and eight-cylinder engines. Failure of the starter-generator causes the electrical network to collapse and completely immobilizes the car. Carefully look for records of its replacement in the service history and watch for any error messages regarding the electrical system on the instrument cluster during the test drive.
• Air suspension and compressor: During the vehicle test, try all available ride height levels. Changing up and down should occur smoothly, and the compressor should not make rattling or loud noises. If the car is stationary and noticeably sags on one wheel, it indicates a pressure leak from the air bellow.
• Frameless window seals and leaks: Frameless windows add style to the car, but their seals can loosen over time. At highway speeds (above 110 km/h), listen for any significant aerodynamic whistling entering the cabin. Also, check the dryness of the carpets and the area around the panoramic roof, as any leaks can very quickly corrode the low-mounted onboard electronics.

When choosing a Volvo XC90:

• Condition of the T8 (Recharge) plug-in hybrid and the ERAD system: If you are choosing an electrified version, closely monitor the car's behavior when transitioning from pure electric mode to engaging the internal combustion engine. Any jerking, dull thuds, or vibrations coming from the rear axle often point to a worn electric motor (ERAD system). Furthermore, check the estimated electric range on the trip computer to get an idea of the battery's condition.
• Infotainment responsiveness and stability: Depending on the year of manufacture, the car will be equipped with either the Sensus system or the newer Android Automotive platform. Immediately after starting, test the smoothness of the map, seat heating controls, and phone pairing via Bluetooth. Screen restarts or "freezing" often indicate the need for a software reflash or a fault in the central module.
• Brake wear and steering vibrations: The XC90 is an exceptionally heavy SUV, which puts an enormous strain on the braking system. During the test drive, brake more intensely from a higher speed (e.g., 90 km/h on a safe section). If you feel pulsing in the brake pedal or vibration in the steering wheel itself, the brake discs are warped and an immediate service investment awaits you.
• Hidden interior leaks: Similar to the Audi, the drainage channels of the panoramic roof can become clogged here as well. Firmly press your hand onto the floor carpets in the front for both the driver and passenger. If you discover even a hint of moisture or a musty smell, it's better to walk away from the car – trapped water easily destroys complex wiring harnesses.
• Air suspension and axle noise: If the XC90 has the optional air suspension, check that it doesn't report an error when changing height and that the compressor doesn't wheeze. On poor surfaces, listen for sounds from the front axle. Dull thuds when driving over potholes indicate worn bushings and joints, which wear out faster on heavy family vehicles.

Sources: ADAC, svetmotoru.cz, auto.cz, autotechnik.cz, autojournal.cz, autickaruvblog.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.