2026 Volvo XC90 vs. 2026 BMW X5: Specs, Size, Price & Safety
2026 Volvo XC90 vs. 2026 BMW X5 Overview
- In our 2026 Volvo XC90 vs. 2026 BMW X5 comparison, you will find both are top-class midsize luxury SUVs with plenty in common
- Comparable perks, such as extensive warranty plans, underscore the high quality of each model
- While the BMW X5 has more power output, the Volvo XC90 boasts better fuel efficiency
- Both the BMW X5 and Volvo XC90 are equipped with advanced safety features, but the Volvo SUV comes standard with more
- Furthermore, the Volvo XC90 offers 85.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, 13.4 more cubic feet than you will find in the BMW X5
- The Volvo XC90, for sale now at Volvo Cars of Marietta, arguably provides better value for its lower MSRP than the BMW X5
2026 Volvo XC90 vs. 2026 BMW X5 Specs
When it comes to the 2026 Volvo XC90 vs. 2026 BMW X5, both SUVs offer graceful, powerful performance. While the BMW X5 may have stronger engine options, the Volvo XC90 achieves better fuel economy. For context, it renders up to an EPA-estimated 23/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),1 while the BMW X5 earns a maximum EPA-estimated 23/27/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 It comes down to your priorities. Do you prefer an SUV with better gas mileage for more time cruising the streets in and around Marietta, GA, or does the splashy horsepower of the BMW X5 speak to you?
2026 Volvo XC90 vs. 2026 BMW X5 Safety
Of course, you'll find exceptional safety packages in both of these luxury models. As the Volvo brand is known for advanced safety, it should come as no surprise that this midsize SUV offers a bit more. For instance, it comes standard with Road Sign Information, Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Collision Mitigation Support, three features not standard in the BMW X5.
2026 Volvo XC90 vs. 2026 BMW X5 Space & Dimensions
These SUVs have very similar exterior measurements (for instance, the Volvo XC90 is 195 inches long and the BMW X5 is 194.3 inches long), and their cabins are more or less the same – except for seating capacity and cargo space. The Volvo XC90 interior features a standard third row and more cargo volume, up to 85.7 cubic feet, compared to the maximum 72.3 cubic feet available in the standard five-passenger BMW X5. The 2026 Volvo XC60 offers seating for six or seven.
2026 Volvo XC90 vs. 2026 BMW X5 Price
The 2026 BMW X5 is more expensive than the 2026 Volvo XC90 without much to show for it. When you consider that the Volvo XC90 offers a higher fuel economy, more advanced driver-assistance systems, more seating, and a larger cargo capacity, the difference of thousands of dollars makes even less sense. We recommend the Volvo XC90 for its sheer value.
What Reddit Thinks About the Volvo XC90 vs. BMW X5
The high number of Reddit forums discussing the 2026 Volvo XC90 vs. 2026 BMW X5 really goes to show how close the race is. Many Redditors prefer the standard three rows of the Volvo XC90, and others also mention the sleek and understated design of the Volvo XC90 as a benefit. Find out more below.
EverydayRobot
"The XC90 definitely has more space than the X5. Spacewise, the X5 was very similar to my Audi and I was shocked at how often I found myself running out of room during road trips, Costco runs, group outings to the beach, etc. So I wanted my next car to be a bit bigger, but not something massive."
Read MoreZifnab2k
"The main reasons I went with the XC90 over the x5 was the overall interior space, safety, and 3rd row. I’m 6’4” and have wide shoulders. Volvo seats are among the most comfortable I’ve sat in. The X5 feels slightly cramped and even my 5 year old struggled to fit behind me. I’d only consider the X5 when I no longer have to tote around children, or they add more leg room to the back seat."
Read MoreIn conclusion, we would say the winner of our 2026 Volvo XC90 vs. 2026 BMW X5 comparison is the new Volvo XC90 for sale.
If you're ready to check out this luxurious, safe, and capable SUV, visit Volvo Cars of Marietta, your nearby Atlanta, GA, Volvo Dealer, for a test drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2026 Volvo XC90 bigger than the 2026 BMW X5?
The Volvo XC90 is slightly bigger at 195 inches long, 69.9 inches tall, and 79.1 inches wide. The BMW X5 is 194.3 inches long, 69.1 inches tall, and 78.9 inches wide. The outer dimensions are nearly identical, even under close scrutiny, yet the Volvo XC90 offers a maximum of 85.7 cubic feet of cargo room vs. the 72.3 cubic feet in the X5.
Does the 2026 Volvo XC90 have a higher safety rating than the 2026 BMW X5?
The 2026 Volvo XC90 earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick+;3 the 2026 BMW X5 has yet to be rated at the time of this writing.4 Additionally, the 2026 Volvo XC90 receives an NHTSA five-star rating,5 which continues its reputation of excellence from the previous year. Meanwhile, the 2026 BMW X5 is given four stars by the NHTSA,6 falling short of the Volvo SUV.
Between the 2026 Volvo XC90 and 2026 BMW X5, which has the better warranty coverage?
Between the 2026 Volvo XC90 and the 2026 BMW X5, the warranty plans are essentially equal. Both models boast a four-year or 50,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty,7 covering critical components for the duration. The other plans are equivalent, too, including up to 12 years of unlimited rust protection7 and complimentary scheduled maintenance for a designated period8 to ensure the vehicles are operating at their fullest potential.
1EPA estimated range is 23 MPG city/30 MPG highway/26 MPG combined (B5 AWD), and 20 MPG city/26 MPG highway/23 MPG combined (B6 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
2Preliminary EPA-estimated figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on speed, driving habits, trip length and driving conditions; actual mileage may be lower.
3Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/volvo/xc90-4-door-suv/2026.
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/bmw/x5-4-door-suv/2026.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2026/VOLVO/XC90%252520MHEV/SUV/AWD.
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2026/BMW/X5/SUV/AWD.
7Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
8The complimentary maintenance services listed on this web page are for informational purposes and shall not be solely relied upon. These services may have specific conditions, limitations, and exclusions, and not all vehicles may qualify for complimentary maintenance. For detailed coverage specifics, including what is included in the complimentary maintenance and any potential costs, please contact our dealership.