Volvo XC90
Drive-E combustion engine in the T8 plug-in hybrid configuration with twin-charging and rear axle electric motor. Combustion engine alone produces 235 kW; system output is 298–340 kW depending on model year. Eight-speed Geartronic automatic at the front, electric motor at the rear axle for all-wheel drive.
T8 XC90 — 400 hp plug-in
400 hp system output from combustion engine and electric motor: in the XC90 that feels massive. Fast, quiet, spectacular.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The early ERAD rear axle electric motor (2016–2017, Siemens design) suffered clutch pack failure. Metal particles contaminated the differential oil, causing progressive bearing wear. Dealer repair costs exceeded 8,000 €.
Symptoms: Grinding or clicking from the rear axle, judder under acceleration, loss of electric rear-wheel drive
Volvo recalled approximately 73,000 PHEV vehicles (S60, V60, S90, V90, XC60, XC90) in 2021–2022 due to fire risk from defective LG battery cells. Affected owners were advised not to charge until inspection.
Some T8 PHEV owners report range losses of 20% or more in the first year. According to forum reports, Volvo accepted 25% range loss in the first year as 'within specification'. Improvements from 2022 models onward.
Symptoms: Noticeably reduced electric range after 1–2 years, combustion engine cutting in more frequently
The T8 shares its combustion engine with the T6, including the supercharger. At high total mileage (combined ICE and electric use), the same supercharger wear patterns apply as on the T6 Drive-E.
Symptoms: Power loss in combustion mode, check engine light, lean running condition (P0171)
Vehicle Weaknesses 10
Plastic intake manifolds on diesel models from 2015–2017 can overheat and deform, posing a fire risk. Check for recall and ensure replacement by a Volvo dealer.
Recall 2019–2020: the automatic emergency braking system (AEB) does not correctly detect obstacles and does not activate. Check recall status at the Volvo dealer and have the software update applied.
The ERAD (electric rear axle drive) on the XC90 T8 is a known critical weak point. Clutch wear sends metal particles into the differential oil, leading to bearing damage and complete failure. Repair outside warranty can cost up to €9,000.
On the XC90 II B5/B6, plastic turbocharger hoses rupture under boost pressure. Several owners report sudden power loss on the motorway. Volvo responded with reinforced hoses in later model years.
On the XC90 II with optional air suspension (Four-C / Air Suspension) the compressor fails, especially on older vehicles or after moisture ingress. The car drops onto its bumpstops and is no longer driveable normally.
In 2016 around 11,000 XC90 II vehicles were recalled in Germany: the A/C drain hose was defective and let water into the footwell. Damp wiring looms can permanently damage control units.
The optional air suspension on the XC90 II can fail in low ambient temperatures: the vehicle loses ride height, the compressor runs endlessly or reports a fault. Software updates partially help.
The Sensus touchscreen infotainment system of the XC90 II freezes or reboots while driving. Bluetooth connections drop out, navigation shows errors. Regular software updates fix most problems.
The Sensus infotainment system freezes on early XC90 II models or shows only a black screen. Software updates help; in stubborn cases a control unit replacement is needed.
The XC90 II with Sensus suffers from sporadic Bluetooth drop-outs and problems with the Volvo app. Behaviour improves after OTA updates but can return with new software versions.