Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GLE: Compare Midsize SUVs in Sarasota

Executive accommodations, engaging performance, and sophisticated style make the Volvo XC90 an attractive option for discerning Sarasota families seeking to upgrade their daily drives. Volvo's flagship SUV is roomy and refined, offers plenty of practicality, and comes generously equipped with an extensive array of standard amenities. And with Volvo's signature Scandinavian craftsmanship of display, the XC90 is one of the segment's most appealing models. Here's a quick look at how it compares to two prominent class competitors, the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GLE.

Audi Q7
Volvo XC 90
Mercedes-Benz GLE

Volvo XC90 vs. Q7Audi

Performance

The Volvo XC90 and Audi Q7 have similar base-model power numbers. However, Bradenton drivers looking to maximize performance and efficiency will better appreciate the XC90 Recharge Extended Range. This turbo and supercharged plug-in hybrid (455 hp, 523 lb-ft) outpaces the Q7's most powerful 55 TFSI powertrain (335 hp, 369 lb-ft). It also achieves an EPA-estimated 66 MPGe and ~35 miles of pure-electric range, which can potentially save drivers thousands of dollars throughout their ownership. Although it's a mild-hybrid, Q7 55 TFSI's estimated 20 mpg leaves much to be desired.

Space and Versatility

While midsize three-row SUVs often have back seats suitable for only smaller children, the XC90 is more accommodating than average. It offers 31.9 inches of legroom and 36.3 inches of headroom in the third row, while the Audi Q7 measures 29.2 and 35.9 inches.

If practicality is a priority in your search for a family-friendly SUV, the XC90 has you covered, offering 16 cubic feet for cargo with all seats in use and up to 86 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Audi Q7 provides 14 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 70 cubic feet.

Safety Features

Both SUVs offer standard safety technologies like forward collision mitigation, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. However, the XC90 list of standard driver aids also includes technologies like Pilot Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane-Centering, Lane-Keep Assist, rear automatic braking, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, and steering-adaptive headlights. The Q7 offers some of these features, but only via a higher tier or optional package. Others aren't available for the Q7 at all.

Volvo XC90 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLE

Accommodations and Practicality

The Volvo XC90 is more accommodating for larger Sarasota families, providing standard three-row seating for up to seven passengers. The Mercedes-Benz GLE only offers a third row as a costly add-on, and it's comparatively cramped.

The XC90 also provides more room to carry your errands and adventures, with 41.8 cubic feet for cargo behind the second row and up to 85.7 cubic feet behind the first. The GLE offers 33.3 cubic feet behind the second row and a maximum of 74.9.

Advanced Driving Aids

While the XC90 and GLE both come standard with advanced safety features like collision mitigation and blind-spot monitoring, Volvo's list of standard features is much more comprehensive. Every XC90 includes technologies Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping Aid, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, and Pilot Assist with Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane-Centering. Some of these features are available on GLE, but their not standard on any trim, and Volvo's semi-automated driving features are more advanced.

Plug-in Hybrid

The Volvo XC90 Recharge Extended Range boasts a twincharged plug-in hybrid powertrain making a prodigious 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. An 18.8-kWh battery helps achieve an EPA-estimated 66 MPGe and ~35 miles of pure-electric range. To get comparable power in the GLE requires the GLE580's twin-turbo V-8, which gets just 19 mpg (EPA-est.).

Test-Drive the New Volvo XC90 near Lakewood Ranch and North Port

Reach out to Volvo Cars Sarasota today to learn more about the Volvo XC90 and its available options, offers, and ordering opportunities. To see how Volvo XC models compare to each other, you can check out our Volvo SUVs overview page. And if you'd like a closer look at any of the models in our new Volvo inventory, we welcome you to visit our Sarasota Volvo dealership for a test drive. We'd love to give you a tour.

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Volvo Cars Sarasota

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Directions Sarasota, FL 34231

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