If you're looking at the 2024 volvo suv models, you'll notice they're right in the middle of a pretty big identity shift. Volvo is leaning hard into electricity, but they haven't forgotten the crowd that still prefers a traditional gas engine—or at least a hybrid one. It's an interesting time for the brand because you have these legendary nameplates like the XC90 sitting right next to futuristic newcomers like the EX90.
Navigating the lineup can be a little confusing because of the naming conventions, but once you break it down, it actually makes a lot of sense. You've got your "XC" models, which are the ones we've known and loved for years, and then the new "EX" models, which are built from the ground up to be purely electric. Let's dive into what's actually on the lot this year.
The Small and Snappy XC40
The XC40 has always been the "cool" younger sibling in the Volvo family. For the 2024 model year, it remains a fantastic entry point if you want that premium feel without driving a literal tank. It's boxy, it's upright, and it has a ton of personality.
What I love about the XC40 is that it doesn't try to be a shrunken version of the bigger SUVs. It has its own design language. Inside, it's clever—there are hooks for your takeout bags and a removable trash bin in the center console. It's the little things, right? For 2024, the gas version (the B5) comes with a mild-hybrid system. It's not going to let you drive on pure electricity, but it makes the stop-start system way smoother and helps a bit with fuel efficiency.
Then you have the XC40 Recharge, which is the fully electric version. It's surprisingly fast. Like, "push you back into your seat" fast. For 2024, they actually updated the electric motors and battery tech, so you get a bit more range than previous years, which was always the one thing people complained about.
The Goldilocks Choice: The XC60
If you see a Volvo on the road, there's a very high chance it's an XC60. It's the bestseller for a reason. It hits that "Goldilocks" zone—not too big to park at the grocery store, but big enough to hold a week's worth of camping gear or a stroller and all the bags that come with it.
The 2024 XC60 feels incredibly polished. The ride quality is leaning toward comfort rather than "sporty," which, honestly, is what most people actually want in a daily driver. You've got two main choices here: the B5 mild-hybrid or the T8 plug-in hybrid (often called the XC60 Recharge).
If you have a place to plug in at home, the T8 is the one to get. You get about 35 miles of pure electric range, which covers most people's commutes. You can go weeks without visiting a gas station if you're just running errands around town, but you still have the gas engine for those long weekend road trips. Plus, it has 455 horsepower. Yes, you read that right. It's a sleeper powerhouse.
The Big Boss: The XC90
The XC90 is the elder statesman of the 2024 volvo suv models. It's been around in its current form for a while now, but it still looks better than half the SUVs that came out this year. There's a timelessness to the design that just works.
This is the three-row option. Now, the third row isn't exactly a cavern—it's best for kids or shorter adults—but for a family of four or five, it's perfect. The interior is where the XC90 really shines. The "Orrefors" crystal gear shifter in the higher trims is a total vibe, and the seats are arguably the most comfortable in the entire car industry.
Like the XC60, you can get the XC90 as a mild-hybrid or a plug-in hybrid. Even though the EX90 is technically its successor, Volvo is keeping the XC90 around for a while longer because people simply aren't ready to give it up yet. It's the safe, comfortable, and stylish choice for the suburbs.
The New Kids: EX30 and EX90
This is where things get really exciting. Volvo is introducing two new fully electric SUVs that represent the future of the brand.
First up is the EX30. It's the smallest SUV Volvo has ever made, and it's also one of the fastest. It's meant to be an urban car—minimalist, sustainable, and relatively affordable compared to other luxury EVs. The interior is wild; they've moved almost everything to a single central screen and used a lot of recycled materials like denim and flax. It's a bit of a departure from the "old" Volvo luxury, but it feels fresh and modern.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is the EX90. This is the new flagship. Think of it as the XC90's high-tech, electric cousin. It's packed with sensors, including a LiDAR system sitting right above the windshield that looks like a little taxi sign. This tech is there to make it the safest Volvo ever. It's a big, seven-seat luxury cruiser that's meant to compete with the likes of the Tesla Model X or the Rivian R1S.
Living with the Tech
One thing you'll notice across almost all 2024 volvo suv models is the infotainment system. Volvo moved to a Google-based system a couple of years ago, and for 2024, it's standard across the board.
If you use Google Maps on your phone, you'll feel right at home. It's built into the car, so the navigation is actually good—which is a rarity for car manufacturers. You can sign into your Google account, and your saved places show up right there. It also handles voice commands better than most. Just say "Hey Google, I'm cold," and it actually adjusts the climate control without you having to menu-dive while driving.
However, it's worth noting that Volvo has moved a lot of the physical buttons onto the screen. I know, I know—some people hate that. I miss having a physical knob for the volume sometimes, but you do get used to the steering wheel controls pretty quickly.
Safety Isn't Just a Buzzword
We can't talk about Volvo without mentioning safety. It's their whole thing. In the 2024 models, the safety tech has become less intrusive and more helpful. The Pilot Assist system—which is their version of adaptive cruise control with lane centering—is one of the smoothest on the market. It doesn't ping-pong you between the lines; it just feels like a very focused co-pilot.
They've also improved their collision avoidance systems. The cars are now better at detecting cyclists and pedestrians, even in low light. It's that peace of mind that really sells these cars. You feel like the car is looking out for you, even when you're a little distracted by the kids in the back or a podcast.
Which One Should You Actually Buy?
Choosing between the 2024 volvo suv models really comes down to your lifestyle and how ready you are to go electric.
- If you're a city dweller or a young professional, the XC40 or the new EX30 are the way to go. They're easy to park and have a lot of style.
- If you have a small family, the XC60 is the sweet spot. I'd personally recommend the Recharge (PHEV) version if your budget allows; it's the best of both worlds.
- If you need the space, the XC90 is still a gold standard for luxury family hauling.
- If you're ready to ditch gas entirely and want the latest and greatest, wait for the EX90.
Volvo has managed to keep their soul while changing their heart. The cars still feel Swedish—they're calm, they're functional, and they don't feel the need to shout. Whether you're going for the classic gas-sipping mild hybrids or the silent electric future, the 2024 lineup has something that feels just right.