2023 Volvo Trim Levels Explained: Core, Plus & Ultimate Guide

Volvo Trim Levels for the Volvo XC90

If you have your eye on a new three-row SUV, you're probably considering the new Volvo XC90. A Volvo XC90 lease deal seats up to seven and boasts 85.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity while delivering a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.¹ In addition to having the choice between Silver Dawn or Denim Blue paint, you'll have to pick between Volvo XC90 trim levels.

Thankfully, our Volvo trim levels comparison is here to help you decide between the three. The entry equipment level on new Volvo cars and SUVs is the Core trim.

Highlights of the Core trim include leatherette upholstery, a tailored steering wheel, and Iron Ore aluminum decor throughout the cabin. The interiors of Core models also boast mid-level illumination and aluminum tread plates.

When it comes to performance, the Volvo XC90 Core comes equipped with an eight-speed Geartronic™ automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive, and start/stop technology.

The mid-level model is the Plus trim variant, which includes all of the Core features, plus headlamp cleaners for additional visibility and a matte silver front grille with chrome surround. The Iron Ore interior trim is replaced with Linear Walnut decor.

The Volvo Plus also replaces the leatherette upholstery with leather upholstery while adding high-level illumination and illuminated sill molding.

Volvo Trim Differences in the Volvo XC40

Let's look at the Volvo XC40 trim levels and compare the Core and Plus differences. The Volvo XC40 Core exterior has black window trim, color-coordinated door mirrors, and aluminum roof rails. The new XC40 Plus gives you Black Stone door mirror covers, high gloss window trim, glossy black roof rails, and a laminated panoramic moonroof with a power sunshade.

If you're debating between the Plus and the Ultimate trim styles, the Plus trim comes with 18-inch wheels, a high-performance audio system, and cruise control. The Ultimate trim upgrades those features to 19-inch wheels, a Harman Kardon® premium sound system, and adaptive cruise control.

There are also differences between Plus and Ultimate models regarding driver's support features. Volvo Plus models boast a rear park assist camera and front and rear Park Assist, while the Ultimate trims are equipped with a 360-degree camera, Pilot Assist, and Park Assist for the front, rear, and sides.

2023 Volvo Trim Levels Compared to 2022

Now that the 2023 Volvo models are arriving and making their way into our new Volvo specials, you may be wondering what the changes are from 2022 and what the new names mean. Instead of having multiple trim variants, powertrain options, and add-ons, the 2023 lineup of Volvo vehicles favors simplification.

For example, the 2022 Volvo XC60 trim levels were Momentum, Inscription, and R-Design variants. For 2023, your comparable Volvo XC60 model options become Core, Plus, and Ultimate, which are the same names that appear on other vehicles in our new Volvo inventory. The Volvo Plus trim is the mid-range tier and the most popular model, while the Ultimate trim offers the most luxury.

Volvo C40 Recharge Electric Crossover

The new Volvo C40 Recharge also arrives in Core, Plus, and Ultimate equipment levels to give you a menu of options when choosing the best new electric crossover SUV for your commute. The C40 Recharge Core comes with a shift-by-wire single-speed transmission, a sculpted gear selector, and a two-zone climate system.

Stepping up to the Volvo C40 Plus, drivers will enjoy the same Core features, plus a power passenger's seat, power-folding rear head restraints, and fog lights. The top-of-the-line Volvo C40 Recharge Ultimate adds a heat pump, headlamp cleaners, and adaptive cruise control.