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2022 Volvo XC90 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

2022 Volvo XC90 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: Momentum vs Inscription and Recharge
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

What 2022 Volvo XC90 Trim Should You Buy? What is the Difference Between Trims?

Get ready for an extraordinary driving experience - the new 2022 Volvo XC90 comes with a suite of advanced technologies, sophisticated styling and elegant materials that make it stand out. Its spacious cabin offers 37 inches of legroom in the second row and 31.9 inches in the third - perfect for your family's travels! The car is available as either traditional Momentum or Inscription trims, but those looking to go further can opt for its Recharge edition which has two motors giving it extra power over its siblings.

Compare the XC90 Momentum vs Inscription Trims. What is the difference?

The Momentum may be an entry-level trim, but it's far from basic. It has a lot of elegance to it, along with impressive amenities. The Inscription takes things even further, firmly cementing itself into the luxury market as an attractive option.

For drivers requiring a bit more bite under the hood, Volvo offers an upgrade on its Momentum trims with their "T6" powertrain. This supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is capable of generating 316 horsepower, nearly 66 horses than the standard T5 option - translating to a 0-60 mph time that's almost 1½ seconds quicker! Talk about some serious acceleration for those quick getaways without compromising quality or comfort.

Experience true luxury behind the wheel of a Volvo XC90 Momentum and choose from two powerful powertrains to fit your needs, budget, or style. The T5 FWD offers an efficient option with its 30 miles per gallon on highways — saving you up to $2,500 in comparison to other trims. While for those needing extra traction there’s always the all-wheel drive options like Inscription that come standard in higher trim levels equipped with eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmissions that shift perfectly whatever momentum catches you off guard - just how Volvo intended it.

On the Momentum, there are 19-inch wheels, though there's the option to get other types. The front grille has a black insert and a chrome surround. That chrome matches the bright aluminum trim that surrounds the windows as well as the bright roof rails. There are auto-folding and heated side mirrors, and a panoramic moonroof with power sunshade is standard.

The Inscription is a sight to behold at night with its impressive 20-inch wheels boasting ten-spoke designs and door puddle lights. Its grille even has an elegant chrome insert, adding an extra bit of sophistication! Inside their cabins lies plenty for passengers to enjoy.

Cozy front seats that have been ergonomically designed and soft enough for maximum comfort during trips, coupled with power adjustable driver's seat complete with two way lumbar support as well as the same feature on the passenger's side. Should rear visibility become impaired due to blockage from second row head restraints, no worries - they can be folded down using the convenient power folding function.

The driver's seat on both trims even has a memory function. It's pretty cool how it works, as it can remember multiple positions. Those positions can be linked to specific key fobs. When one person unlocks the car and gets in, the seat will automatically adjust to his/her favored position. When the next person drives the car and uses his/her key fob, then the seat will move to that other preferred position.

Further, the Inscription is enhanced with ambient illumination, a tailored dashboard, and illuminated front instep plates that are visible when the front doors are open. The Momentum does has shiny aluminum tread plates in the front, but they don't illuminate. The two trims have four-zone automatic climate control, but only the Inscription has sun curtains integrated into the rear doors to provide some extra shade on hot days.

Whatever trim you choose, Volvo's infotainment system is sure to keep you connected! Both trims boast SiriusXM and smartphone connectivity along with convenient voice control, Bluetooth pairing, wireless charging ability - plus a 12-inch customizable instrument panel that puts speedometer readings at your fingertips. Plus the added advantage of Sensus navigation for easy turn-by-turn guidance as well as an advanced nine inch touchscreen display providing effortless access so all information can be easily accessed in one place.

The Inscription takes its audio to the next level with a 14-speaker Harman Kardon system delivering 600 watts of digital power. This includes an air-ventilated subwoofer, giving your music true punch and clarity in all notes from low bass rumbles to high trebles. While still impressive, the Momentum's 10 speakers supply 220 watts for those who simply want their tunes loud and clear.

Fortunately, every 2022 Volvo XC90 is equipped with several pieces of driver-assist technology. This SUV can warn drivers about vehicles in their blind spots and vehciles that may be crossing behind them when they're in reverse. It has adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, and front and rear parking sensors. It can also gently correct steering if needed to keep itself centered in a lane.

Volvo is renowned for its innovative designs, and the adaptive power steering on some of their trims adds an extra layer of sophistication. This cutting-edge program adjusts how much assistance you get behind the wheel depending on your exact speed - be it bustling city streets or highway cruising. On top of that, there are three levels to choose from so every driver can feel in total control.

Compare the Inscription vs Recharge Trims. What is the difference?

Make a dramatic change and take your driving to the next level with the Recharge. This plug-in hybrid allows you 18 miles of emission free travel all while having access to its powerful All Wheel Drive system, just like in an Inscription. With up to 400 horsepower and 472 lb.-ft torque generated by two electric motors working seamlessly together with a turbocharged 2.0 liter engine - get ready for exhilarating acceleration from 0-60 mph in only 5.3 seconds! Suitable for both performance drivers and eco conscious individuals alike, taking off on this road will be anything but dull.

The Inscription Expression is a luxurious powerhouse of features, including 19-inch wheels and heated leather seats with power lumbar support. But the true embodiment of elegance arrives in its more upgraded counterpart: the Incription. With 20-inch rims and handcrafted crystal gear selector plus Nappa upholstery for an interior treat, you'll take your ride to new heights as soon as you turn on that Harman Kardon sound system - with power cushion extensions, adjustable side supports and dual memory settings making every journey feel like first class.

There is one more level of Volvo XC90 Recharge avaialble, and that's called the R-Design. It has a much sportier and more aggressive aesthetic than the others. This is clear just by looking at this model from the exterior. It has glossy black roof rails and mirror covers, a special grille with a high-gloss black insert, 20-inch black wheels, and more black surrounding the windows.

In its cabin, it has a dark charcoal headliner that contrasts nicely with the metal mesh aluminum decor. Its sport pedals seem seem to be something one would see in a race car, and they have rubber strips to provide more grip.

While the R-Design doesn't have ventilated front seats, Nappa leather upholstery, or the crystal gear selector knob that are all incorporated into the Recharge Inscription, it does have some unique components. The gear selector is wrapped in a tailored leather and has white contrast stitching, and the steering wheel is hand switched with glossy black elements and accent stitching.

The Recharge R-Design's seats have upholstery that uses a variety of materials. They have Nappa leather bolster and inserts along with synthetic material on the side bolsters and Nubuck textile seat panels. Nubuck is a high-tech cloth that's durable and soft. Its a cloth that allows for some air circulation, so people can stay cool and comfortable.

Notably, the Recharge R-Design has some exclusive options. It's available with Park Assist Pilot and four-corner air suspension. The parking assist program can actually take over steering for both parallel and perpendicular parking, and the advanced air suspension system can make thousands of precise adjustments as it drives over varying terrain and adapts to different scenarios.

It can maintain ride height when the back is weight down with cargo, and it can make adjustments to each shock absorber independently. Users can choose from comfort, eco, dynamic, off-road, and individual modes in order to prime the system to meet their expectations. With this type of suspension, the Recharge R-Design can lower itself when passengers are getting in and out of the cabin, only to raise itself when it's time to drive.

Final Thoughts

With prices ranging from $50,000 to over $70,000 for the XC90 trims, you know that each version is sure to offer a luxurious driving experience. However if cost constraints are an issue then prospective buyers may need look no further than either the Momentum or Inscription versions of this sleek and powerful SUV.

The Momentum trim of the SUV offers fantastic value for money, with a range of features rarely seen in its price bracket. From integrated navigation and comfort seating to panoramic moonroofs and advanced safety equipment - nothing has been spared from this model. There is also choice available between two engines (T5 or T6), so drivers can select one that best suits their needs; though it's unlikely customers will need any more than what comes on the affordable Momentum trim itself, making Inscription upgrades unnecessary additional expense.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

2021 Volvo XC90 Trime Levels