Test Drive: Discover Why The Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid Is Made For Families

Summer was a whirlwind of activities and sports for our family of seven, so we wanted to do something memorable to reconnect before the back-to-school chaos began. We loaded the entire family into the 2026 Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid SUV and headed out on one last adventure, a weekend at Deerhurst Resort in Ontario’s cottage country. It was the perfect way to soak up the last of summer’s beautiful weather together while also testing out how well this SUV could handle our big family and busy lifestyle.

Spoiler alert—it exceeded our expectations in every way.

A Spacious Ride for Seven

If you’ve ever travelled with a large family, you know that packing is a challenge even on the best of days. Between clothes, snacks, bathing suits and sports gear, space fills up fast. What impressed us most about the Volvo XC90 was how effortlessly it accommodated everything we needed for a weekend away.

The generous trunk space and thoughtful interior storage offered plenty of space for suitcases, backpacks and more, and we didn’t feel the slightest bit cramped. Even with three rows filled, no one was bumping elbows or struggling for legroom, including our 15-year-old, who’s already almost 6’3".

One of our favourite surprises was the built-in booster seat, which made things so much easier with younger kids. No more hauling bulky boosters in and out of the car; just pop it up and go. Pair that with the retractable sunshades on the back windows, and suddenly long drives feel a lot more comfortable for everyone—every parent's dream.

Power for the Open Road, Range for Everyday Life

The drive up to Deerhurst was the perfect chance to put the plug-in hybrid’s gas engine to work. It handled the highway beautifully, with smooth acceleration and the kind of power you need for passing and merging with confidence.

Once we were back home, the switch to electric felt seamless. With up to 53 kilometres* of electric range, I was able to handle all my back-to-school errands (grocery runs, supply shopping and trips to and from activities) without relying on gas at all. But I also like that I can count on the gas engine should I need it. It’s the best of both worlds—a gas engine for long drives and fully electric mode for everyday driving.

Safety That Gives You Peace of Mind

As a mom of five, driving can feel like a juggling act, but the Volvo XC90 made every trip easier with Pilot Assist**. On long drives, it kept a smooth, steady pace by adjusting my speed to the flow of traffic while making subtle steering adjustments to keep us in the centre of the lane. In stop-and-go traffic, it follows the car ahead, braking us to a full stop if needed and starting up again when the road clears. Knowing that the system would alert me and even stop when required gave me incredible peace of mind.

For me, it wasn’t just about comfort—it was the confidence that my family and I were protected no matter where the day took us.

Tech That Fits Into Family Life

Another feature I didn’t expect to love as much as I did? Google’s services are integrated directly into the car’s infotainment system.*** It was so easy to say “Hey Google” and get directions or play music or even add reminders for the week ahead while focusing on the road and remaining hands-free. With five kids asking for five different playlists, having everything at our fingertips kept everyone happy and entertained, and the large, clear display and intuitive system made it easy to stay connected without being distracted.

Preparing for Fall

As we pulled back into our driveway after our trip, I felt grateful for the memories we made. The kids were already talking about their favourite parts of the weekend while I was mentally shifting gears toward getting back-to-school ready. It always amazes me how quickly summer turns into September, but having a vehicle that makes both adventures and everyday errands feel easy and seamless is such a game-changer.

Between the space, safety, electric range and thoughtful family-friendly features, the Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid SUV truly fits our life. Whether it’s a road trip to the lake or a quick run for school snacks, it was ready for it all.

Learn more about the 2026 Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid SUV  at volvocars.com. 

The Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid SUV was awarded the Today's Parent Approved seal in October 2024.

*Up to 53 km range: The figures are based upon Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN) approved test cycles. The actual range, the actual energy consumption and the charging times depend on various factors, such as the outside temperature, the current battery temperature, the charging device and other external factors as well as the condition of the batteries and vehicle. See https://fcr-ccc.nrcan-rncan.gc.ca/en for more information.

**Pilot Assist: Driver support functions are not a substitute for the driver’s attention and judgment. Brake intervention is only active at lower speeds. Driver remains responsible for safe driving at all times.

***Infotainment system: Google services are enabled through a digital services package that is included for four years. After this period, new terms and fees will apply if you choose to renew. Google, Google Maps and Google Play are trademarks of Google LLC.TD.