The 2026 Volvo XC90 is available in three powertrain configurations. The base B5 mild hybrid produces 247 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with AWD standard. The B6 mild hybrid steps up to 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, with towing capacity reaching 5,000 pounds. The T8 Recharge plug-in hybrid produces 455 combined horsepower with up to 35 miles of all-electric range, achieving 63 MPGe combined in hybrid mode. All XC90 trims include AWD as standard.

The 2026 Land Rover Range Rover Sport base P360 uses a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six producing 355 horsepower. Upper trims include a turbocharged V8 producing significantly more power. The Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a genuinely capable and refined vehicle with strong performance credentials and legitimate off-road capability. However, it carries a substantially higher entry point than the XC90, its reliability record is weaker according to consumer data, and its fuel economy trails the XC90 across comparable configurations. The Land Rover Range Rover Sport does offer a compelling plug-in hybrid option with strong performance.

The Volvo XC90 received an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation for the 2025 model year, the highest available rating. Standard safety equipment on every 2026 Volvo XC90 trim includes automatic emergency braking, Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, blind spot information, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping aid, and oncoming lane mitigation. The XC90 also includes Volvo's unique Whiplash Injury Protection seats in the first and second row, designed to reduce neck injury risk in rear impacts.

Google Built-In is standard on the 2026 XC90 across all trims, providing Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store through a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Harman Kardon premium audio and a Bowers and Wilkins premium audio option are available on upper trims. The Land Rover Range Rover Sport's Pivi Pro infotainment is well-regarded, and the Sport includes a capable suite of driver assistance systems. However, Land Rover's reliability has consistently rated below Volvo in consumer surveys, and the more complex mechanical systems in the Land Rover Range Rover Sport contribute to higher long-term ownership costs.

The 2026 Volvo XC90 offers seating for up to seven passengers across three rows, with 36.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and a maximum of 85.7 cubic feet with all rows folded. Front row legroom is 40.9 inches, outpacing the Land Rover Range Rover Sport's 40.0 inches. The XC90 also includes underfloor storage and a flat, wide load floor that makes loading easier than the Land Rover Range Rover Sport's higher load lip. The Land Rover Range Rover Sport does not offer a usable third row in the traditional sense.

The XC90's Scandinavian interior design is consistently praised for its clean, intuitive layout and premium material quality. Four-zone climate control is standard on all XC90 trims above Core. The Land Rover Range Rover Sport's interior is genuinely luxurious, with high-quality materials and a commanding presence. Buyers who prioritize maximum interior opulence and the status of the Range Rover badge will find the Sport compelling, but the XC90 delivers comparable or superior space and comfort at a meaningfully lower ownership cost.