VOLVO XC90 (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 49 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
90%
Total Tests (2024)
49
Avg Mileage
40,659 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,772
Is the 2021 VOLVO XC90 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 8 points above the national average of 82%.
At 3 years old, 90% of VOLVO XC90s from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 49 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 40,659 miles.
How does the 2021 VOLVO XC90 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 VOLVO XC90 has 40,659 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
Best year to buy a VOLVO XC90?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 72%. The 2021 sits between the two at 90%.
How much does a 2021 VOLVO XC90 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VOLVO XC90 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 90% | 49 | 40,659 mi |
| 2020 | 91% | 1,309 | 41,321 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 9,154 | 50,386 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 11,631 | 61,269 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 10,316 | 72,733 mi |
| 2016 | 86% | 10,879 | 84,251 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 5,492 | 89,253 mi |
| 2014 | 81% | 4,171 | 99,216 mi |
| 2013 | 81% | 4,585 | 108,019 mi |
| 2012 | 82% | 5,327 | 114,883 mi |
| 2011 | 78% | 8,160 | 124,635 mi |
| 2010 | 77% | 11,184 | 130,904 mi |
| 2009 | 78% | 6,349 | 136,576 mi |
| 2008 | 76% | 3,096 | 141,628 mi |
| 2007 | 73% | 5,149 | 147,081 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 5,088 | 150,799 mi |
| 2005 | 73% | 6,336 | 159,047 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 4,432 | 161,221 mi |
| 2003 | 72% | 1,520 | 152,528 mi |
Checking a specific VOLVO XC90?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2021 VOLVO XC90
The 2021 VOLVO XC90 is a premium with a 1969cc petrol engine. 49 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 78% of 2021 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 40,659 miles at 3 years old, VOLVO XC90 owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2021 VOLVO XC90 Fuel Costs
The 1969cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2021 VOLVO XC90?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,772 (£148/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 90% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
VOLVO XC90 Reliability Trend
Newer VOLVO XC90s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 11 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2021 VOLVO XC90
At 3 years old, this is still relatively fresh. You may find examples with remaining manufacturer warranty. Depreciation is slowing but hasn't bottomed out yet. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 91%. Note: with only 49 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2021 VOLVO XC90
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SPORT R-DYN SE D A (2020) 90% pass rate (same) from 5,505 tests
- BMW 520D M SPORT MHEV AUTO (2021) 89% pass rate (-1%) from 3,423 tests
- BMW 320D M SPORT MHEV AUTO (2021) 91% pass rate (+1%) from 3,336 tests
- VOLVO XC90 R-DESIGN B5 MHEV AWD AUTO (2021) 90% pass rate (same) from 2,911 tests