Comparing Volvo XC90 Vs. Defender: Side By Side
The Volvo XC90 vs. Defender SUV comparison may not be a showdown you'd naturally think to have. The Defender model is boxy and rugged, while the Volvo trims are no-nonsense with an air of sophistication. Both options offer three rows of luxury, world-class technology, and premium driver comforts, but set those similarities aside and you've got two very different vehicles at two very different price points.
If you're here because you want an insider's guide to these high-end sport-utes, we've got the specs, safety, and dimensions data you need. By the end of this Defender vs. Volvo XC90 review, you'll be one step closer to your dream SUV. Learn more below, then come see the Volvo XC90 in person at Gunther Volvo Cars Delray Beach. Don't worry, we'll have a set of Volvo test-drive keys waiting.
Volvo XC90 vs. Defender: Interior Design
Slip into both vehicles' cabins in our Volvo XC90 vs. Defender comparison, and you'll notice a marked difference in their overall personality, style, and value for your money. Every Volvo XC90 trim gives you three rows of supple seating, but the Defender SUV's rows and passenger capacity varies from five to eight, depending on the trim.
With three Volvo trims to choose from, you're guaranteed high-end features, even in the Core model. The new Volvo XC90 is ideally suited for drivers who love a minimalist cockpit, a gently contoured interior, and generous upgrade options like a crystal Orrefors® gear selector or a 10-point massaging driver's seat. Here's a look at some highlights from each trim of the Volvo model:
- Volvo XC90 Core: From the start, the Volvo lineup gives you that first-class feel with a panoramic roof, Pilot Assist, a four-zone climate system, tinted rear windows, and heated front seats.
- Volvo XC90 Plus: Choose the Plus trim for a 360-Degree Camera, high-level interior illumination, a heated steering wheel, and walnut accents that make the cabin even more inviting.
- Volvo XC09 Ultimate: For ultimate comfort, take home this top-tier trim, which adds a Head-Up Display, rear-door sun curtains, ventilated Nappa leather upholstery, and a premium Harman Kardon® sound system to your build.
Where the Volvo trims feel warm, inviting, and simple to navigate, the Defender SUV feels cold, interior components like the gear selector aren't ergonomically positioned, and the different trim levels can be confusing to order.
- Defender 90: With seating for five or six and three trim options, the Defender 90 limits your passenger capacity and your styling choices. This body style is, however, the most affordable of the three options.
- Defender 110: This five-seat body style bumps up your engine performance to compete with the Volvo XC90, yet doesn't add much to your interior with its four trim levels.
- Defender 130: Choose this body style – the most expensive option – and one of its five trims to get up to eight seats and standard features like a 3D Surround Camera, a Meridian™ Sound System, and a panoramic glass roof.
Volvo XC90 vs. Defender: Performance & Specs
Next up in this Volvo XC90 vs. Defender guide are specs and performance. Both models give you a choice of two powertrains, though only the Volvo trims give you fuel-efficient mild-hybrid capabilities across the board. Looking for some electrified Volvo power? Take a look at the new Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid, also known as the Volvo XC90 Recharge.
Unfortunately, the Defender engine options toggle between four-, six-, and eight-cylinder and use either gas or diesel fuel – and we all know how expensive either can be in today's economy. Some Defender trims offer mild-hybrid capabilities, while some rely solely on their gas engines. The price of the Volvo XC90 compared to Defender powertrains is also drastically different, with the top-spec Defender motor costing almost double what you'd spend on a Volvo XC90 Ultimate trim with the highest-level engine.
Defender vs. Volvo XC90: Cargo Space and Dimensions
Compare Volvo XC90 vs. Defender dimensions, and you'll quickly notice that the primary difference is wheelbase length. The Volvo XC90 consistently measures 195 inches long and 79.1 inches wide, giving you more than 38 inches of headroom in the first two rows and 40.9 inches of front legroom for driver and passenger comfort.
The Defender SUV's length ranges from 180.5 to 211.7 inches depending on body style but maintains a width of 82.9 inches. On the street, a Defender model seems to have a larger presence than a Volvo XC90, but its interior is decidedly smaller than the Volvo trims, with only 39.1 inches of front leg room. The Volvo model also gives you reclining rear seats, which you won't find in the Defender SUV.
Volvo XC90 vs. Defender: Technology and Safety
Another important side-by-side comparison is Volvo XC90 vs. Defender safety. Most of today's SUVs are packed with high-end technology and top safety ratings, but some automakers still stand above the rest. Volvo cars are known for their reliable safety systems, and the 2024 Volvo XC90 makes that clear with more than 14 standard safety and driver-assistance tools at your disposal, even in its Core trim.
The base-level Defender trims share a few safety features with the Volvo XC90, namely Blind Spot Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and an ISOFIX child seat system, but the Defender SUV can't compete with the Volvo brand's inflatable curtain airbag for full-cabin protection or Whiplash Injury Protection System. Even upper Defender trims don't add much outside of a Rear Traffic Monitor and Wade Sensing technology.
Meet the New Volvo XC90 Today
Volvo XC90 or Defender? That is the question! Have you made up your mind, or do you need a test drive to know for sure? We recommend meeting the Volvo XC90 in person to see how the thoughtful interior comes together to give you a serene driving experience. Visit Gunther Volvo Cars Delray Beach today to find your perfect trim and start a Volvo XC90 lease!