The Volvo XC90 offers two powertrain configurations and three trim levels, although the entry-level B5 model is only available with the two lower trim levels. Core is the basic trim level's name, but it is anything but basic.
Standard equipment includes a panoramic sunroof with a power sunshade, 19-inch alloy wheels, leatherette-upholstered heated and powered front seats with memory function for the driver, ambient lighting, aluminum interior decor, keyless entry, four-zone climate control, a 12-inch digital gauge cluster, a nine-inch central infotainment display, a ten-speaker audio system, a rearview camera and parking sensors on both ends, and Pilot Assist, which combines lane-keeping assistance with adaptive cruise control. All trims also receive blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and rear-collision mitigation.
The mid-level trim is named Plus, which adds a heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, a 360-degree camera, headlamp cleaners, 20-inch alloy wheels, improved ambient lighting, walnut interior trimmings, and heated rear seats. At the top of the range, the Ultimate builds on the features of the Plus trim with rear door sunshades, a head-up display, 21-inch wheels, Nappa leather upholstery, a tailored dashtop and upper door cards, front-seat ventilation and memory for the front passenger seat, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.
On top of these choices, buyers can also specify Base exterior treatment (the only one available on the B5 and B6 at the Core trim level), Dark exterior (standard on the Plus trim level), and Bright (available only on the B6), roughly corresponding to the outgoing XC90's Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription trim levels
Despite being absolutely jam-packed with features, a few key packages exist to sweeten the deal further. A Climate package adds a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and headlight cleaners to the B5 or B6 Core for $750, while the Protection Package Premier adds wheel locks, a stainless-steel bumper cover, a first-aid kit, and protective mats for $820. The Plus comes as standard with the Climate package, so it has access only to the Protection Package Premier. Both Core and Plus are eligible for the 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system for $800. The Ultimate already has the Harman Kardon system but can be upgraded with a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system at $3,200. It's also the only trim with access to the $1,700 Lounge Package, adding a massaging function for the front seats and a Nubuck headlining. Running boards can be added to any trim for $2,400 and other standalone options on trims that don't already have them fitted include a head-up display for $800, several storage solutions, and a $1,580 tow hitch.