Bob Penkhus Volvo Cars - Which New Volvo SUV Is Right for Colorado Springs, CO Drivers?
Shopping for a new Volvo SUV in Colorado Springs, CO often starts with one practical question: which size, powertrain, and feature mix fits the way you actually drive? Around town, you may want something easy to park near downtown, Old Colorado City, or the UCCS area. On weekends, you may need room for bikes, skis, hiking gear, strollers, dogs, or luggage for a run up toward Woodland Park or a longer drive along I-25. For families, commuters, outdoor enthusiasts, and EV-curious shoppers, the Volvo SUV lineup gives you several smart ways to match your vehicle to your lifestyle.
At Bob Penkhus Volvo Cars in Colorado Springs, we help shoppers compare new Volvo SUVs across gas mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric options. Our new Volvo lineup includes SUVs and crossovers such as the XC40, XC60, XC60 Plug-in Hybrid, XC90, XC90 Plug-in Hybrid, EX30, EX40, and EX90, along with Volvo wagons and sedans. If you are deciding between a compact SUV, a midsize SUV, a three-row family SUV, or an electric model, this guide breaks down the key differences in plain language.
Start With Size: Compact, Midsize, or Three-Row?
Size is usually the easiest place to begin. Colorado Springs drivers who spend lots of time on Academy Boulevard, Nevada Avenue, or downtown streets may appreciate a smaller SUV with a confident seating position and a tighter footprint. Drivers with growing families, frequent passengers, or larger cargo needs may lean toward a midsize or three-row model. Volvo keeps the lineup easy to understand: the XC40 and EX30 are smaller, the XC60 is the balanced midsize choice, and the XC90 and EX90 are the larger family-focused SUVs.
- Volvo XC40: A compact gas mild hybrid SUV with seating for five, a practical shape, available AWD, and up to 57.5 cubic feet of cargo volume with the rear seats folded.
- Volvo XC60: A midsize gas mild hybrid SUV with standard AWD, five seats, up to 63.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, and a refined balance of comfort, efficiency, and everyday utility.
- Volvo XC90: A large gas mild hybrid SUV with six- or seven-seat configurations, up to 85.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, and a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Volvo EX30: A small fully electric SUV with seating for five, quick acceleration, up to an EPA-estimated 261 miles of electric range depending on configuration, and a city-friendly footprint.
- Volvo EX90: A large fully electric luxury SUV with six- or seven-seat configurations, up to 85.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, and up to an EPA-estimated 305 miles of electric range depending on configuration.
Best Volvo SUV for City Driving in Colorado Springs
If your routine includes short errands, parking garages, school drop-offs, and busy local streets, the XC40 and EX30 are especially appealing. The XC40 offers the familiar flexibility of a gas mild hybrid powertrain, a comfortable five-seat cabin, and a compact size that still gives you SUV ride height. Its available B5 AWD powertrain is a strong fit for drivers who want added traction confidence without moving into a larger vehicle.
The EX30 is a compelling choice if you want a small fully electric Volvo SUV. Its up to 261 miles of EPA-estimated electric range in the Single Motor Extended Range configuration can support many local driving routines, while DC fast charging capability helps on longer trips. The EX30 also brings Google built-in, one pedal drive, and a clean Scandinavian cabin layout that feels modern without being overwhelming. For Colorado Springs drivers who can charge at home or have convenient charging access, the EX30 makes electric driving feel approachable.
Best Volvo SUV for Families and Everyday Flexibility
For many local households, the XC60 is the sweet spot. It is larger than the XC40 without feeling oversized, and it brings standard AWD, a composed ride, and a flexible cargo area. The XC60 offers up to 63.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume with the rear seats folded, plus a wide, flat load floor and a through-hatch for longer items such as skis. That combination works well for daily school runs, grocery trips, youth sports gear, and weekend drives toward the mountains.
If you need a third row, the XC90 becomes the natural step up. The XC90 is available with six or seven seats, making it a strong choice for larger families, carpool duty, visiting relatives, or anyone who wants extra passenger flexibility. The available integrated booster cushion in the second row on most seven-seat models is a thoughtful family feature for children who have outgrown a traditional child seat. Add in a wide cargo opening, power-operated tailgate, and up to 85.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, and the XC90 is built for real family life.
Should You Choose Gas Mild Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, or Fully Electric?
Powertrain choice depends on how you drive and where you charge. Volvo gas mild hybrid SUVs such as the XC40, XC60, and XC90 use a 48-volt mild hybrid system that helps support smoother, more efficient driving without requiring you to plug in. This is a simple option for drivers who want everyday convenience and familiar fueling.
Plug-in hybrid Volvo SUVs add electric-first capability for local drives while keeping a gas engine for longer trips. The XC60 Plug-in Hybrid offers up to an EPA-estimated 35 miles of electric range, while the XC90 Plug-in Hybrid offers up to an EPA-estimated 32 miles of electric range. Both pair an electric motor with a high-performance gas engine, giving you quiet local driving potential and confident power when you need it. Charging from 0 to 100 percent can take about five hours using suitable AC charging equipment, though actual charging time varies based on equipment, temperature, battery condition, and other factors.
Fully electric models such as the EX30 and EX90 remove tailpipe emissions from the drive experience and offer smooth, quick response. The EX30 is the small electric SUV for drivers who want efficiency, style, and easy maneuverability. The EX90 is the larger electric option for families seeking three-row flexibility, a quiet cabin, advanced sensing technology, and long-range EV capability. Actual range varies based on conditions, driving style, terrain, temperature, vehicle condition, and other factors, so our team can help you think through your daily miles and charging plan.
Feature Priorities for Colorado Springs Drivers
Volvo SUVs stand out because useful features are integrated in a calm, driver-focused way. Available and standard features vary by model and configuration, but many shoppers ask about visibility, driver assistance, connectivity, cargo access, and cabin comfort. Those priorities matter in Colorado Springs, where daily driving can include everything from I-25 commuting to tight parking lots, neighborhood hills, and weekend gear loading.
- AWD confidence: The XC60 includes standard AWD, while select XC40 configurations offer AWD, and Volvo plug-in hybrid and electric performance configurations can provide additional traction confidence depending on model.
- Helpful visibility: Volvo LED headlights, available Matrix-design LED headlights on XC90 models, automatic high beams, and available 360-degree camera systems can make busy streets and darker roads easier to manage.
- Smart cargo solutions: Power-operated tailgates, flat load floors, underfloor storage, split-folding seats, and available accessories help with bikes, skis, luggage, strollers, and outdoor equipment.
- Connected navigation: Google built-in, Google Maps, Google Assistant, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto help keep directions, calls, music, and apps easy to access.
- Cabin comfort: Available panoramic roofs, premium audio systems, heated features, air purification, four-zone climate systems, ventilated seating, and head-up displays can make daily driving feel more relaxed.
How to Narrow Your Shortlist
If you are still deciding, think in terms of your most common week, not just your biggest road trip. A compact SUV may handle most tasks beautifully if you drive solo or with one passenger most of the time. A midsize SUV may be better if you need cargo flexibility and adult-friendly rear seating. A three-row SUV is often worth it if you regularly carry more than five people or want extra space for family travel.
- Choose the cabin size first: Pick XC40 or EX30 for compact convenience, XC60 for midsize versatility, or XC90 or EX90 for three-row flexibility.
- Decide how you want to power your drive: Choose mild hybrid for no-plug simplicity, plug-in hybrid for electric-first local trips with gas backup, or fully electric for a quiet EV experience.
- Match cargo to your hobbies: Consider folded-seat cargo volume, roof load needs, towing capacity, and accessory options if you carry bikes, skis, camping gear, or sports equipment.
- Prioritize driver support: Look for features like Pilot Assist, BLIS, Cross Traffic Alert, 360-degree camera views, and Park Assist if you want extra support during commuting and parking.
- Schedule a test drive: The right SUV often becomes obvious once you compare seating position, visibility, ride feel, cargo access, and infotainment in person.
Why Shop New Volvo SUVs at Bob Penkhus Volvo Cars?
Bob Penkhus Volvo Cars is located at 1115 Motor City Drive in Colorado Springs, making us convenient for shoppers from Monument, Castle Rock, Pueblo, Woodland Park, Parker, and nearby communities. Our team is here to make car shopping straightforward, with a strong selection of new and pre-owned vehicles, knowledgeable Volvo guidance, and a finance center that can help you compare buying and leasing options without pressure.
We also support you after the sale through our Volvo Service Center. Our Certified Technicians know Volvo vehicles inside and out, use Volvo Genuine Parts, and have access to state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and special tools. We offer service options such as courtesy vehicles, Volvo Valet pickup and delivery, mobile service, rideshare options, and a comfortable lounge with complimentary amenities if you prefer to wait. That ongoing support matters when you are choosing a vehicle for many years of Colorado driving.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which Volvo SUV is best for commuting in Colorado Springs?
The XC40 and EX30 are great choices for commuters who want a smaller SUV, while the XC60 is ideal if you want more space, standard AWD, and a refined midsize feel. Your best match depends on passenger needs, charging access, and cargo requirements.
Which Volvo SUV has three rows?
The XC90 and EX90 offer six- or seven-seat configurations. The XC90 Plug-in Hybrid also offers three-row flexibility with electric-first driving capability for many local trips.
Which Volvo SUV is best for outdoor gear?
The XC60 is a strong all-around choice thanks to its 63.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, flat load floor, and through-hatch for long items. The XC90 and EX90 provide even more space for families and larger gear loads.
Can Bob Penkhus Volvo Cars help me compare lease and finance options?
Yes. Our finance center can walk you through lease and finance options based on your driving habits, ownership goals, and budget preferences. We can also discuss trade-in considerations as part of your shopping process.
Where can I test drive a new Volvo SUV in Colorado Springs?
You can visit Bob Penkhus Volvo Cars at 1115 Motor City Drive in Colorado Springs, CO. Our team can help you compare Volvo SUV sizes, powertrains, seating layouts, and features so you can choose with confidence.