The XC90 is a premium SUV with an excellent and unmatched value. The 2022 Volvo XC90 has a starting price of $49,900 for the Momentum Model. Trims with the T6 powertrain start at $57,300 for the Momentum trim and $63,600 for the Inscription. If you want the plug-in hybrid Recharge model of the XC90 with the T8 powertrain, the top-of-the-line Inscription starts at $70,100.

The Inscription trim with the 316-horsepower supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine offers the best value. It has several luxuries features that SUV buyers in the Bay Area would be interested in. Elevated features include 20-inch wheels, a statelier exterior trim, lane-keeping assist, a fully digital gauge cluster, and ventilated front seats with message functions.

The Telluride is also a good choice if you’re looking for a mid-size SUV with 3rd row seating. The MSRP starts at $33,390 for the base trim, the LX. If you opt for the SX, the top-of-the-line trim, the MSRP is $43,290. The SX would be a great choice, as it has flashy features like black painted 20-inch rims, a 10-way power driver's seat, front and rear sunroofs, and a Harman Kardon 10-speaker stereo system. 

Engine and Performance

The Volvo XC90 comes in three versions of a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine. The 250-horsepower turbocharged engine is the only pairing with front-wheel drive but is compatible with all-wheel drive as well, which comes standard in all trims. The T6 model adds supercharging to the turbocharging system, resulting in 316 horsepower. The Recharge T8 Extended Range uses a turbocharged four-cylinder, adding two electric motors and an external charging port for the plug-in hybrid trims. This version exhibits 455 horsepower, perfect for weekday commutes and weekend trips.

All XC90 engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and can tow up to 5,000 pounds. The Volvo has accurate steering responses, and the wheel has an attractive lift that cracks the difference between lightweight and heavyweight.

The Kia Telluride comes with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that emits 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It also features an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive comes as an option. A self-leveling rear air suspension is also available. It has excellent brakes and precise steering with a nice lift to its feel. The Telluride can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

Interior and Cargo Space

The XC90 has an undeniably chic and comfortable interior. It has an attractive interior with high quality materials and ample legroom in both the front and rear seats. It features a wide, solid profile that aids in hauling cargo. It has a spacious cabin with 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 85.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows of seats folded down.

The Telluride has an excellent build, and plenty of desirable features. The SX trim has plenty of features you can add on, including a quality headliner, ventilated and heated rear seats, and Nappa leather upholstery. It has 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 87 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.

Fuel Economy

The XC90 keeps up with most of its six-cylinder competitors. The turbo-only version has an EPA rating of 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The supercharged and turbocharged version rates at 19 mpg and 27 mpg for the city and highway, respectively.

Contrary to many three-row SUVs, the Telluride comes with only a V-6 powertrain. According to EPA ratings, the front-wheel-drive version is the most economical, with 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. All-wheel-drive models drop to 19 mpg and 24 mpg for city and highway, respectively.

Infotainment and Connectivity

All XC90s have a robust but easy-to-operate infotainment system that features a 9-inch touch screen. Also standard on all models is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability. With a Digital services subscription, the new XC90 comes with Google built-in so that drivers can talk to Google and use their favorite apps like Google Maps hands-free. A mobile wireless connection is also optional.

All models of the Kia Telluride have an infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. USB ports, a wireless smartphone charging, and 12-volt power outlets are standard on most trims. Driver Talk is standard on all trims and amplifies the driver's voice for improved communication with back-seat passengers.

Safety Features

Volvo is committed to safety, and its three-row SUV has a host of driver-assistance technology. The XC90 features lane-keeping assistance and run-off road mitigation. It also comes with a semi-autonomous system known as Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with active steering to keep the car within the driving lanes.

Kia also packages a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies on all its Telluride trims. It has several upgraded safety features, including a 360-degree camera system, automatic high beams, and a blind-spot view monitor.

Volvo is famous for making safe and practical vehicles. The Volvo XC90 is an excellent choice if you are looking for a safe, technology-packed, three-row premium SUV in the Bay Area. The Kia Telluride is also a good choice due to its impressive technology, comfort, and add-on packages. No matter which vehicle you choose, visit our dealership in Palo Alto for a test drive before deciding.

If you want to buy a family-friendly SUV, you can trust our team at Volvo Cars Palo Alto. We will guide you through the process of choosing your new Volvo and discuss how it can match your budget and preferences. You can contact us online or give us a call at (650) 353-4700 with any inquiries.