5 SUVs in 1: A Guide to the Volvo XC90 Plug-in Hybrid's Five Distinct Drive Modes

The 2026 Volvo XC90 Plug-in Hybrid transforms its character at the touch of a screen, offering five distinct drive modes that adapt to your driving needs. Each mode changes how the vehicle handles, accelerates, and uses power, making this flagship SUV as comfortable running errands in Thornhill as tackling cottage country roads.

Understanding these drive modes helps you optimize performance, efficiency, and comfort for every situation. Your XC90 can switch from silent electric operation for early morning departures to maximum power for highway merging, all through simple touchscreen selection.

Hybrid Mode: The Smart Default Choice

Hybrid mode serves as the XC90's intelligent baseline, automatically balancing the 312 hp turbocharged engine with the 143 hp electric motor for optimal efficiency. The system seamlessly switches between electric and gasoline power based on driving conditions and battery charge level.

This mode prioritizes electric motor usage when possible, reducing fuel consumption during city driving and suburban commutes. When additional power is needed for highway acceleration or hill climbing, the gasoline engine activates smoothly to provide the necessary performance.

Best for Thornhill drivers: Daily commutes along Highway 7 or Don Mills Road, where mixed city and highway driving benefits from intelligent power management.

Pure Mode: Silent Electric Operation

Pure mode maximizes electric-only driving, eliminating tailpipe emissions and engine noise when battery charge allows. The XC90 can travel up to 53 km on electric power alone, covering many daily trips around the Greater Toronto Area without using gasoline.

The system automatically switches to hybrid operation if the battery charge drops too low or if you demand maximum acceleration. If you turn off the vehicle while in Pure mode, it remembers this setting and returns to electric operation when you restart.

Best for Thornhill drivers: Early morning school runs through residential neighbourhoods, shopping trips to Promenade Mall, or visiting family in nearby areas where quiet operation matters.

Power Mode: Maximum Performance

Power mode combines the full output of both powertrains, delivering 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque for dynamic acceleration and responsive highway performance. This setting also sharpens steering response and adjusts transmission shift points for more engaging driving.

The suspension becomes firmer in Power mode, reducing body roll during cornering while maintaining ride comfort. Gear shifts become more pronounced, providing clearer feedback of the drivetrain's operation.

Best for Thornhill drivers: Highway 401 merging during rush hour, passing slower traffic on Highway 407, or weekend drives through the scenic hills of the Kawarthas where responsive performance enhances the experience.

All-Wheel Drive Mode: Enhanced Traction

All-Wheel Drive mode optimizes power distribution between front and rear wheels for improved traction in challenging conditions. While the XC90 features standard AWD in all modes, this specific setting prioritizes grip over efficiency.

The system continuously monitors wheel slip and road conditions, adjusting power delivery to maintain control on wet pavement, gravel roads, or light snow. Throttle response becomes more measured to prevent wheel spin.

Best for Thornhill drivers: Spring trips to cottage country on gravel roads, rainy autumn commutes, or winter driving when road conditions become unpredictable around the GTA.

Off-Road Mode: Serious Capability

Off-Road mode transforms the XC90 into a capable trail vehicle, raising the air suspension for 223 mm of ground clearance at speeds below 25 km/h. Hill Descent Control activates automatically, maintaining controlled speeds on steep downhill sections.

This mode adjusts throttle response for precise low-speed control and modifies the AWD system's operation for maximum traction on uneven surfaces. The system automatically disables Off-Road mode at higher speeds but maintains Hill Descent Control up to 40 km/h.

Best for Thornhill drivers: Accessing remote camping spots in Algonquin Park, navigating rough cottage driveways, or exploring conservation areas where paved roads end.

Drive Mode Comparison

Using Drive Modes Effectively

Access drive modes through the center display by selecting the vehicle symbol, then Settings > Driving > Drive Modes. The system remembers Pure mode between drive cycles but defaults to Hybrid for all other modes.

Consider switching modes proactively based on your route and conditions. Use Pure for residential areas, Hybrid for mixed driving, Power for highway travel, AWD for weather challenges, and Off-Road when leaving paved surfaces.

Experience how the 2026 XC90 Plug-in Hybrid's five drive modes adapt to your Ontario lifestyle by visiting Volvo Cars Villa in Thornhill and discovering the versatility that makes one SUV feel like five different vehicles.