The best used Volvo SUV depends on how many people you carry and how much space you need. The XC40 is the compact, easy-to-park choice. The XC60 is the five-seat all-rounder with the most cargo room of the two-row models. The XC90 is the three-row family SUV with seating for up to seven.
Pick the XC40 if you mostly drive solo or as a couple and want the easiest SUV to park. Pick the XC60 if you need a true five-passenger family vehicle with generous cargo space. Pick the XC90 if you regularly carry more than five people or need the most cargo room.
All three share Volvo's focus on safety and offer all-wheel drive on many versions. Each current generation has been on sale long enough that there is a wide range of model years, mileages, and prices on the used market.
Current-generation models. Cargo is measured in cubic feet.
| Feature | Volvo XC40 | Volvo XC60 | Volvo XC90 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size class | Subcompact luxury SUV | Midsize (compact luxury) SUV | Three-row midsize luxury SUV |
| Current generation since | 2019 model year | 2018 model year | 2016 model year |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 7 (6 with optional second-row captain's chairs) |
| Overall length | About 174 in. | About 185 in. | About 195 in. |
| Rear legroom | 36.1 in. | 38.0 in. | 37.0 in. (2nd row) / 31.9 in. (3rd row) |
| Cargo behind rear seats | 20.7 | 22.4 | 15.8 behind 3rd row / 41.8 behind 2nd row |
| Max cargo | 47.2 | 63.3 | 85.7 |
| Gas and hybrid powertrains | T4, T5; mild-hybrid B-series from 2023 | T5, T6, T8 plug-in hybrid; mild-hybrid B5/B6 from 2022 | T5, T6, T8 plug-in hybrid; mild-hybrid B5/B6 from 2023 |
| Best for | City and suburban driving | Everyday family use | Large families and carpools |
Figures are typical published specifications and may vary slightly by model year. This guide covers gas, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models; the fully electric XC40 variants are not included.
The XC40 arrived in the U.S. for the 2019 model year. Early models use T4 or T5 turbocharged engines; starting with 2023, Volvo moved to mild-hybrid B-series engines. It suits drivers who value maneuverability over maximum space.
Shop used XC40The second-generation XC60 launched for 2018. The 2022 update brought B5 and B6 mild-hybrid engines and Google-based infotainment, while the T8 plug-in hybrid continued. It offers the most rear legroom of the three.
Shop used XC60The second-generation XC90 debuted for 2016. Mild-hybrid B5 and B6 engines replaced the T5 and T6 for 2023, and the T8 plug-in hybrid remains available. The third row is best suited to children or shorter trips for adults.
Shop used XC90A Certified by Volvo SUV costs more than a comparable non-certified used SUV, but it comes with inspection standards and factory-backed coverage.
According to Volvo, each Certified by Volvo vehicle must have fewer than 80,000 miles, pass a 170+ point inspection and road test, and come with a CARFAX Vehicle History Report with Buyback Guarantee.
The Certified by Volvo limited warranty provides 12 months of unlimited-mileage coverage after the 4-year/50,000-mile new-vehicle warranty expires, or 12 months from your certified purchase date, whichever is later. Coverage can be upgraded, and covered warranty visits carry no deductible.
Compare the trade-offs in our used vs. Certified by Volvo guide.
| Check | How to Verify | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Open recalls | Enter the VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls | Confirms safety recalls have been completed. |
| Service history | Review records and the vehicle history report | Volvo recommends gas-powered models be serviced at least once a year. |
| Remaining warranty | Ask for the original in-service date | Coverage is calculated from that date, not your purchase date. |
| Tires and brakes | Measure tread depth; inspect pads and rotors | These can add cost soon after purchase. |
| 12-volt battery | Ask for a battery test result | A weak battery can trigger warnings and hard starts. |
| Plug-in hybrid (T8) | Confirm the charging cable is included; test electric-only driving; check remaining high-voltage battery coverage | New Volvo plug-in hybrids carry an 8-year/100,000-mile high-voltage battery warranty, and remaining coverage continues on Certified by Volvo vehicles. |
| Infotainment and software | Test the screen, phone pairing, and camera | Confirms electronics and updates are working. |
Trading in your current vehicle? Get a trade-in estimate before you shop.
For a family of four or five, the XC60 offers the best balance of rear legroom (38.0 inches) and cargo space (63.3 cu. ft. maximum). If you need more than five seats, the XC90 seats up to seven and offers up to 85.7 cu. ft. of cargo space.
It seats five, but it is the smallest of the three, with 36.1 inches of rear legroom and 20.7 cu. ft. of cargo behind the rear seats. It works well for small families with modest cargo needs and for drivers who prioritize easy parking.
Major changes include the second-generation XC90 for 2016, the second-generation XC60 for 2018, the XC40's U.S. debut for 2019, and the switch to mild-hybrid B-series engines (2022 for XC60, 2023 for XC40 and XC90).
Volvo describes it as a 12-month, unlimited-mileage limited warranty that begins after the 4-year/50,000-mile new-vehicle warranty expires, or 12 months from your certified purchase date, whichever is later. It can be upgraded, and covered warranty visits have no deductible.
Check for open recalls by VIN, review the service history, confirm the original in-service date, inspect tires and brakes, test the 12-volt battery, and test all electronics. For plug-in hybrids, confirm the charging cable is included.
Sit in an XC40, XC60, and XC90 back to back to see which fits your family and your garage. Our team can share vehicle history reports and in-service dates for any vehicle you are considering.
Last verified: October 21, 2026
Certified by Volvo terms reflect Volvo Car USA's program pages. Dimensions and cargo figures reflect published specifications for current-generation models.