2011 Volvo XC90: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2011 Volvo XC90 is a small power increase for both six-cylinder trims, from 235 to 240 horsepower. This is otherwise a lightly updated carryover year, not a redesign or major refresh.
About the 2011 Volvo XC90
1st generation (U.S. 2003-2014), near the end of this body style and just before the 2012 styling update.
Volvo sold the XC90 as a premium family SUV built around safety, seven-seat flexibility, and understated Scandinavian style. The message was not extreme performance or flashy tech; it was a roomy, comfortable vehicle that could handle daily family use, road trips, and bad weather while offering thoughtful touches such as an integrated second-row booster cushion and flexible cargo space. Against rivals, the XC90’s strongest appeal was its safety reputation, practical cabin, and calm, upscale feel.
The 2011 XC90 is a seven-seat SUV offered in practical 3.2, sportier 3.2 R-Design, and more powerful V8 forms. The mainline 3.2 has leather seating, a moonroof, and an integrated child booster, while the R-Design adds firmer suspension and quicker steering. The V8 pairs 311 horsepower and all-wheel drive with heated front seats and wood cabin trim.
What changed, by category
2011 Volvo XC90 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.4 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.2 Liter | 6-Cyl, 3.2 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd Geartronic w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 14 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 311 hp | 240 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 325 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3300 lb | 3300 lb | 3300 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 85.1 cu-ft | 85.1 cu-ft | 85.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 30.1 in | 30.1 in | 30.1 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Rear Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Massage Front Seat | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2011 Volvo XC90 compared with the 2010 model?
The 2011 XC90’s six-cylinder engine rises from 235 to 240 horsepower, and Bluetooth hands-free calling becomes standard. The base 3.2 also gains analog-style gauges and silver roof rails, but the SUV receives no major redesign.
Is the 2011 Volvo XC90 a redesigned model?
No, the 2011 Volvo XC90 is not a redesign. It remains part of the first generation and receives only a modest power increase and a few equipment updates.
Which 2011 Volvo XC90 trims received more horsepower?
The 2011 XC90 3.2 and 3.2 R-Design both received more power. Their 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine increased from 235 to 240 horsepower, while the V8 remained at 311 horsepower.
How do the 2011 Volvo XC90 trims differ?
The 3.2 is the practical mainline trim, the 3.2 R-Design adds firmer suspension, quicker steering, and sportier trim, and the V8 provides 311 horsepower, all-wheel drive, heated front seats, and wood cabin trim. All three retain seven-seat family utility.
Is the 2011 Volvo XC90 a meaningful upgrade over the 2010 model?
It is a modest upgrade rather than a major one. The strongest reasons to favor the 2011 model are its extra five horsepower on six-cylinder trims and its standard Bluetooth; the basic design and V8 powertrain carry over.