Volvo XC90 Vs. Toyota Highlander: Battle Of The Three-Row SUVs
When we compare the Volvo XC90 vs. Toyota Highlander, we're setting two strong and spacious three-row SUVs against each other. Both are well-equipped for families with dynamic seating configurations, but the Scandinavian-inspired Volvo XC90 pulls ahead with its strong history of awards, available plug-in hybrid variant, and more spacious cargo area.
As we compare the Volvo XC90 and Toyota Highlander, we'll examine these dynamic SUVs' performance specifications, dimensions, cargo and passenger spaces, safety technologies, and more. We aim to help you determine which of these two SUVs will best serve your family. Read on to review the Volvo Cars Tampa team's Toyota Highlander vs. Volvo XC90 deep dive.
2025 Volvo XC90 vs. 2025 Toyota Highlander at a Glance
- Volvo XC90 SUVs have greater available horsepower output than the Toyota Highlander.
- The Volvo XC90 can be more fuel-efficient than the Highlander, and its PHEV variant blows the Highlander – and Highlander Hybrid – out of the water with an EPA-estimated 32 all-electric miles1 of travel range and an EPA-estimated 58 MPGe (Combined).1
- Load up all the essentials with the Volvo XC90 SUV's 85.7 cubic feet of max cargo space; the Highlander only offers 84.3 cubic feet.
- The 2025 model year marks the sixth consecutive year that the Volvo XC90 receives the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+ award.2 The Highlander has not been awarded this honor since 2023.3
Volvo XC90 vs. Toyota Highlander Performance & Specs
Drivers shopping for a 2025 Toyota Highlander can choose between two engines. The base setup is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard front-wheel drive, though you can opt for an all-wheel-drive powertrain. This setup is strong, if not exciting to drive.
The other engine option for the new Toyota Highlander is a mild-hybrid configuration. It comprises a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a lithium-ion battery, and an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT). New for 2025, all hybrid models come standard with all-wheel drive and three responsive lithium motors – two in the front and one in the rear. This setup produces 243 horsepower, proving hybrid vehicles can be competitive in fuel efficiency and muscle.
This portion of our 2025 Volvo XC90 vs. 2025 Toyota Highlander comparison proves the Volvo SUV is more versatile with its three powertrain options. For the mild-hybrid Volvo XC90, there's the standard B5 AWD setup, which pairs a battery-and-motor system with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to produce 247 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The other available mild-hybrid choice is the B6 AWD powertrain – a supercharged option with road-gripping all-wheel drive – which boosts horsepower to 295 and the pound-footage of torque to 310, allowing this automobile to outpace both the Highlander and Highlander Hybrid.
The final option for the 2025 Volvo XC90 is on the plug-in hybrid variant, the Volvo XC90 PHEV. The T8 AWD powertrain couples a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a muscular plug-in hybrid battery-and-motor system to make an exhilarating combination of 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. Between the Volvo XC90 and the Volvo XC90 PHEV, you're getting the more dynamic engine selection, winning this part of our Volvo XC90 vs. Toyota Highlander matchup.
Toyota Highlander vs. Volvo XC90 Fuel Economy
As we approach gas mileage, we find the Volvo XC90 is the more straightforward and fuel-efficient automobile. The Toyota Highlander fuel efficiency rating varies based on several factors, scoring seven different ratings. For clarity, we'll compare the least and most fuel-efficient Highlander options with the Volvo SUVs' offerings.
With its most bare-bones configuration, a 2025 Toyota Highlander with the 2.4-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 21/28/24 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).4 Hybrid models can boost that rating to a maximum EPA-estimated 35/35/35 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).4
Meanwhile, our 2025 Volvo XC90 is a competition conqueror. Its mild-hybrid B5 AWD powertrain is more fuel-efficient than the Highlander, offering an EPA-estimated 23/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).5 Swapping to the B6 AWD powertrain gives you that sweet boost at the expense of some MPG value, providing an EPA-estimated 20/26/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).6
The Volvo model's gas mileage shines brightest with the Volvo XC90 PHEV, a powerhouse of an SUV that scores an EPA-estimated 58 MPGe (Combined).1 Its plug-in hybrid setup also allows for no-emissions, all-electric driving for up to an EPA-estimated 32 miles,1 meaning you get to run errands all over town without even touching the gas in your tank.
The 2025 Volvo XC90 vs. 2025 Toyota Highlander comparison is clear on this topic. The Volvo XC90 dominates the conversation when comparing its entry-level configurations and top-tier levels. The Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid is the clear star, charging ahead of the Highlander with its EPA-estimated 58 MPGe (Combined)1 and all-electric driving ability. If saving on fuel is a priority for you, the Volvo XC90 PHEV is your best bet by far.
Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid vs. Toyota Highlander Hybrid
We've spoken briefly about the hybrid variants of each model in our clash, but here, we'll examine only those configurations closer. Here are the notable highlights of how the two measure up:
- The Volvo XC90 PHEV is a plug-in hybrid; the Toyota Highland Hybrid is a mild hybrid.
- Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid SUVs must be plugged in to recharge their batteries.
- The Highlander does not need to get plugged in but does not offer all-electric travel or comparable gas mileage.
- Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid models produce 455 horsepower; the Highlander Hybrid gets only 243.
- Both models come standard with all-wheel drive, providing a strong connection to the road.
- The Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid is more fuel-efficient than the Highlander Hybrid when comparing the two at their base levels and top-level trims.
All around, the Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid blows the Toyota Highlander Hybrid out of the water.
Volvo XC90 vs. Toyota Highlander Size, Dimensions & Cargo Space
As three-row models, you can rest assured either the 2025 Volvo XC90 vs. 2025 Toyota Highlander will give you ample room to stretch and bring along essentials. Spaciousness is the name of the game here, but each model approaches it differently. The standard 2025 Highlander is 194.9 inches long, 76 inches wide (without the mirrors), and 68.1 inches tall.
The entry-level Toyota Highlander LE has:
- Headrooom (front/second/third): 41.2 / 39.4 / 36.1 inches
- Legroom (front/second/third): 42 / 38.7 / 28 inches
- Hip room (front/second/third): 57.2 / 57 / 45.6 inches
- Shoulder room without shade (front/second/third): 59 / 58.7 / 55 inches
- Maximum cargo space: 84.3 cubic feet
- Standard seating capacity: Eight
The 2025 Volvo XC90 is longer, wider, and taller than the Toyota Highlander. Every Volvo model measures 195 inches long, 79.1 inches wide (without the mirrors), and 69.9 inches tall.
The new Volvo XC90 has:
- Headrooom (front/second/third): 38.9 / 38.5 / 36.3 inches
- Legroom (front/second/third): 40.9 / 37 / 31.9 inches
- Hip room (front/second/third): 56 / 56.5 / 44.9 inches
- Shoulder room (front/second/third): 57.7 / 56.5 / 46.9 inches
- Maximum cargo space 85.7 cubic feet
- Standard seating capacity: Seven
Let's review the data: the Volvo XC90 has greater third-row headroom and legroom, which is ideal for growing families with school-aged children. It also has one fewer standard seat than the Highlander, which means less squishing together and more personal space. Additionally, the Toyota Highlander only comes as a seven or eight-seater, while the Volvo XC90 sports a seven or six-passenger configuration. This may mean fewer seats, but it also means greater comfort on long drives – and more peace for Mom and Dad in the front row.
The Volvo XC90 also has a higher maximum cargo capacity than the Highlander. With the second and third rows folded down, the Volvo XC90 can store up to 85.7 cubic feet of belongings. The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, has a maximum storage volume of 84.3 cubic feet. With just the third row down, it can handle 48.4 cubic feet to the 66 cubic feet of the Volvo XC90. The Volvo XC90 handily wins this part of our Volvo XC90 vs. Toyota Highlander battle.
Volvo XC90 vs. Toyota Highlander Interior & Features
The cabins of these SUVs are both well-designed and full of creature comforts. Volvo Cars, however, is known to make luxurious vehicles that embrace Scandinavian minimalism and boast unparalleled automotive elegance. We'll see if the Toyota Highlander can keep up.
Every one of the Volvo XC90 trims sports a roomy and well-appointed interior. Standard appointments include:
- Wireless phone charging
- 11.2-inch touchscreen for music and navigation
- Panoramic roof
- Four-zone climate control
- Quilted Nordico upholstery
- Heated front seats
- Crystal gear selector by Orrefors®
The Plus and Ultra models are even more luxurious, with their available features including:
- Ventilated Nappa leather upholstery
- Heated rear seats
- 360-Degree Camera
- Front-seat ventilation
- Premium Harman Kardon® sound system
The Toyota Highlander does not come with standard features that can hold a candle to those of the Volvo XC90. For instance, you won't find Nordico upholstery or a signature crystal gear selector by Orrefors® on any Highlander trim. The SUV does have a standard touchscreen, but it only measures eight inches (a 12.3-inch touchscreen is available). You won't find heated seats or a heated steering wheel until you're looking at top-of-the-line trims.
The Toyota Highlander is, simply put, not a luxury vehicle. If you want to drive yourself and your family around in style and supreme comfort, the new 2025 Volvo XC90 for sale is your best bet. This SUV blends impressive performance with a spacious and luxury-laden interior. Plus, we're about to see how it can keep your family safe on the road to boot. Volvo Cars Tampa can set up your test drive.
Volvo XC90 vs. Toyota Highlander Safety & Reliability
Both the Volvo XC90 and Toyota Highlander have excellent suites of standard safety features to protect the most precious cargo of all on the road: you and your passengers. The two models have different naming conventions for select safety technologies, but here are some significant standard technologies you'll find for both the Highlander and Volvo XC90 in Volvo parlance:
- Road Sign Information
- Oncoming Lane Mitigation
- Blind Spot Information System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Lane Keeping Aid
- Adaptive Cruise Control
Looking to higher-level trims, the two SUVs in our 2025 Volvo XC90 vs. 2025 Toyota Highlander comparison keep pace with each other. As we move up the lineup of each model, we find a 360-Degree Camera that enhances driver awareness. Plus, available on each vehicle is a futuristic Head-Up Display that casts your pertinent driving data against the windshield, reducing the need for you to glance away from the road for information.
As for reliability and safety scores, however, the Volvo XC90 takes the crown yet again. It earned that coveted Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety2 for the 2025 – marking its sixth consecutive year with the award. The Highlander did earn the same award in 2021,7 2022,8 and 20233 – only three consecutive years compared to the Volvo XC90 SUV's six. Additionally, the Highlander hasn't earned this prestigious award since 2023, while the Volvo XC90 is still in the midst of its strong safety streak.
How Does the Volvo XC90 Stack Up?
Here at Volvo Cars Tampa, we want you to have all the details you need to make an informed decision. We've compared specs, fuel economy, safety, reliability, and features. Now, it's time to see if the Volvo XC90 can truly hold its weight when considering higher-tier trims. Just as the Volvo SUV wins out in a matchup against the Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 with its better MPG values and versatile seating options, it packs a punch here against the middle-tier Highlander XSE. See how below:
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| 2025 Volvo XC90 Plus B6 AWD | 2025 Toyota Highlander XSE AWD | |
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| Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl | 2.4L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 295 | 265 |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Max Cargo Space | 85.7 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft |
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2025 Volvo XC90 vs. 2025 Toyota Highlander: Conclusion
Thanks for perusing our Volvo XC90 vs. Toyota Highlander comparison. We have seen that the Volvo XC90 has a better lineup of engines, a more compelling interior, better fuel economy, more luxurious features, and a stronger history of safety awards. If you and your family need a stylish new companion, this is the SUV for you. Start a new Volvo XC90 lease to enjoy this exciting model at an attractive monthly cost.
Whatever your needs, our dealership is your go-to destination for car shopping. We carry the full lineup of Volvo vehicles, ranging from the efficient Volvo XC90 PHEV for sale to pre-owned luxury Volvo sedans and station wagons. Visit us today for a test drive.
FAQ
Which has more cargo size: Toyota Highlander or Volvo XC90?
The 2025 Volvo XC90 has a larger maximum cargo capacity than the 2025 Toyota Highlander. With all of its seats down, the new Volvo XC90 can store 85.7 cubic feet of luggage, groceries, or other cargo. The Toyota Highlander can only fit a maximum of 84.3 cubic feet. Our Volvo Cars Tampa team invites you to visit and tour its spacious trunk area and creature comforts.
Which is more reliable: Toyota Highlander or Volvo XC90?
Both Toyota and Volvo Cars are well-known for making reliable vehicles. Either of these cars could easily break the 150,000-mile mark and reach 200,000 when given proper care. According to RepairPal, both the Volvo XC90 and Toyota Highlander rank Above Average in reliability,9,10 so you can focus on choosing the model with the perks you want most without worrying about performance and longevity.
Which has better fuel economy: Toyota Highlander or Volvo XC90?
There are several fuel economy ratings for the Toyota Highlander and Volvo XC90, depending on the engine and drivetrain. The Volvo vehicle, however, has access to the most efficient setup. The Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid scores an EPA-estimated 58 MPGe Combined)1 and can travel up to 32 miles1 on electric-only power – two things the Highlander can't achieve.
Learn More About Other Volvo Models
1Estimated range according to the EPA driving cycles. The actual range achieved under real conditions varies depending on driving behavior, driving conditions, how you maintain your vehicle, battery and other external factors. Visit fueleconomy.gov for further information.
2Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/volvo/xc90-4-door-suv/2025
3Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Toyota/highlander-4-door-suv/2023
4Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
5EPA estimated range is 23 MPG city/30 MPG highway/26 MPG combined (2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/
6EPA estimated range is 20 MPG city/26 MPG highway/23 MPG combined (2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Toyota/highlander-4-door-suv/2021
8Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Toyota/highlander-4-door-suv/2022
9Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/volvo/xc90
10Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/cars/toyota/highlander/2025