MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Volvo Xc90 B5 Safety

NHTSA safety across every Volvo Xc90 B5 model year we cover.

Across the 3 model years of the Volvo Xc90 B5 we cover (2023 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2023 at 96 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2025 at 94. No recalls are on record across those years.

THE MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial ◆ Reviewed against NHTSA data ◆ 2026-10-01

The Volvo XC90 B5 is a three-row luxury SUV that has anchored Volvo's lineup for years, targeting affluent families who want premium comfort without compromising on protection. In its mild-hybrid B5 configuration, it competes squarely against the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Audi Q7. Safety has always been the XC90's loudest selling point, and the federal data backs that reputation up convincingly.

The 2023-2025 Volvo XC90 B5 presents an unusually clean safety record. Zero recalls have been issued across all three model years, a rare outcome given current industry trends. It earns a best NHTSA Safety Index of 96 out of 100, placing it in the Exceptional band. Crash-test results show five stars in both frontal and side impact categories. The four-star rollover rating is common for SUVs and does not detract from its overall strength. Owner complaints total 94, with 7 involving reported crashes and 3 involving reported injuries. No fatalities have been reported. While NHTSA notes these are unverified allegations, their low volume across the fleet's early life cycle is notable. The XC90 B5 offers robust crash protection and regulatory compliance.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the XC90 as one of the most thoughtfully engineered luxury SUVs on the market, praising its refined interior, composed ride, and comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technology. Most consider it a benchmark for how safety and premium design can coexist, though some note that its powertrain options feel modest relative to more performance-oriented rivals in the segment.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • The XC90 B5 holds a 96 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index for the 2023 model year, placing it in the Exceptional band and making it one of the top-rated vehicles in our covered range.
  • It has recorded zero recalls across the 2023, 2024, and 2025 model years, an unusually clean regulatory record that sets it apart from most competitors in the three-row luxury SUV segment.
  • Crash-test scores reach the maximum five stars in both frontal and side impact categories, with a four-star rollover rating that is typical for vehicles of this height and weight class.
  • Ninety-four owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA across the covered years, including 7 reported crashes and 3 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, but shoppers should review the complaint database for any emerging patterns before purchase.

Safety Index by year

BY YEARXc90 B5 by model year

Other Volvo models