Comparison: Ground clearance Volvo XC90 vs. competitors 2025

The XC90's stomping shoes have indeed varied over the generations. The first-gen models flirted with the ground so much that exact figures seem whispered away in some Nordic myth. However, by the time the second facelift arrived in 2006, it lifted its skirts to a respectable 218mm. By the time the second generation thundered onto the scene in 2015, the XC90 had hoisted itself up to an impressive 267 millimeters—taller than the fur hat on a Buckingham Palace guard.

Volvos are often more grounded than a teenager after a bad report card. However, within the Volvo family stable, the XC90 stands out with a lofty stature. It looms above its siblings like a Nordic giant, from the V60's and S60's paltry 128-147mm up to the almost respectable 216-223mm range of the XC60 and moneyed cousin, the XC90 Recharge Plug-in Hybrid. But none within the Volvo kin, not the V60 Cross Country nor the somewhat rugged XC40, can tip-toe over puddles as high as the majestic XC90.

When lined up against its rivals, the XC90 surveys the land with a kingly gaze. From the runt of the Hyundai Bayon to the regal Mercedes-Benz GLS, Volvo's proud entry stands taller than most—bar the mighty Mercedes GL-Klasse that might as well have its own weather system up there at a cloud-brushing 307mm. The refined Audi Q7 and BMW X7 dares near with their own respectable standings—and let's tip our hats off to the Lamborghini Urus, a raging bull, that decides to prance just shy of the XC90 with a striking 248mm clearance. However, our svelte Swedish SUV stands unparalleled when balanced against the likes of the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Audi Q8 e-tron, stalwart members of the under 200mm club. And the daintier rivals like the Infiniti EX and Mercedes-Benz EQC? Please, let's not even pretend they're playing the same game.