Does volvo xc90 have captains chairs

To truly understand if the Volvo XC90 has captain’s chairs, you should know that yes, the Volvo XC90 does offer second-row captain’s chairs, but it’s an optional feature that changes the seating configuration from seven passengers to six. This premium option has been available for several model years, including the most recent 2025.5, 2025, 2024, and 2023 models, typically on the higher-end trims like Plus and Ultra. It’s a fantastic choice for folks looking to boost comfort and convenience in their luxury SUV.

Opting for captain’s chairs in your XC90 means you’re trading the standard three-person bench in the second row for two individual, more spacious seats. This setup offers a few really nice perks, like making it much easier for passengers to get into and out of the third row since there’s an open aisle between the second-row seats. Plus, those second-row passengers get more room to stretch out, and often, these seats come with extra adjustability, plush upholstery, and integrated cupholders, making long drives a lot more enjoyable. It’s all about tailoring the experience to focus on everyday luxury, and who doesn’t love that?

Which Volvo XC90 Models and Trims Offer Captain’s Chairs?

If you’re eyeing a Volvo XC90 with those comfy captain’s chairs, you’ll generally find them as an option on specific trims and model years. For instance, the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 offers the six-seat configuration with captain’s chairs on both the Plus and Ultra trims. What’s cool is that for 2025.5, you can get these seats with the B5 powertrain, whereas for earlier 2025 models, you often needed the B6 mild-hybrid or T8 plug-in hybrid powertrains.

Looking back a bit, the 2024 Volvo XC90 Plus and Ultimate trims also featured the option to swap out the bench for captain’s chairs, reducing the seating capacity to six. The 2023 Volvo XC90 likewise had this six-seat option, typically in its Plus trim and higher, including the Ultimate. Even around 2019, the six-seat option started appearing in the US, with some Reddit users confirming their 2020 XC90 T6 Inscription models came with captain’s chairs.

So, if you’re shopping for a new or used XC90, keep an eye out for models with the six-seat configuration, especially in the Plus or Ultimate/Ultra trim levels. These are usually where you’ll find that coveted captain’s chair setup.

The Benefits of Second-Row Captain’s Chairs in the XC90

Choosing captain’s chairs isn’t just about reducing a seat. it’s about upgrading the overall experience. Here are some of the standout advantages:

• Enhanced Comfort: Each passenger in the second row gets their own individual seat, which often means more personal space, better cushioning, and sometimes even additional features like armrests that swivel, individual recline options, and integrated cupholders. It’s like having first-class seating in the middle row. For families, this can mean fewer squabbles over personal space on long trips. Consider adding some car seat organizers to keep things tidy!
• Easier Third-Row Access: This is a huge one, especially if you regularly use the third row. With captain’s chairs, there’s a clear aisle between the two seats, allowing passengers to simply walk through to the back row instead of having to fold, slide, and climb over a bench seat. This is a must for kids and adults alike, making entry and exit much smoother.
• Improved Passenger Flow: That open space between the seats isn’t just for third-row access. it also allows for better movement within the cabin. Kids can pass snacks or toys more easily, and you can tend to passengers in the back without having to pull over.
• Individual Adjustability: Captain’s chairs typically offer more individual adjustment options than a bench seat, letting each passenger tailor their seating position for maximum comfort. This includes reclining, sliding forward or back, and extending armrests.

While it reduces the overall passenger capacity by one, many families find the trade-off worthwhile for the added luxury and practicality.

Comparing XC90 Captain’s Chairs to the Bench Seat

The standard Volvo XC90 interior usually comes with a seven-seat configuration, featuring a second-row bench seat that can accommodate three people. This is a great setup if you absolutely need to carry seven passengers, or if you prefer the versatility of a continuous seating surface for cargo or sleeping kids. The bench seat often includes a fold-down cup holder in the middle, offering some convenience.

However, the captain’s chairs transform the second row into a six-seater, prioritizing individual comfort and ease of access. While the bench seat is practical, the captain’s chairs elevate the feeling of luxury and make the cabin feel more open. It boils down to your family’s needs: do you frequently carry seven people, or do you value the enhanced comfort and accessibility for six?

For those with larger families or who need to transport many passengers, the seven-seat bench might be the go-to. But if you’re often transporting fewer than seven and want to give your middle-row passengers a more premium experience, the captain’s chairs are definitely worth considering. You might also want to invest in some all-weather floor mats to protect that luxurious interior, regardless of your seat choice!

Does the Volvo XC90 Have Massage Seats?

Yes, the Volvo XC90 can indeed come with massage seats! This is another fantastic luxury feature designed to enhance comfort for drivers and front passengers. Typically found on higher trim levels, like the Ultimate, or as part of a specific “Lounge Package” or “Advanced Package” on models such as the Inscription, these massage seats are a real treat.

The massage function is usually in the front seat backrests and uses air cushions to provide different massage programs and settings. You can often control the type of massage, intensity, and speed through the car’s center display or a multifunction control on the side of the seat. Imagine having heated, massaging seats on a cold morning commute—it definitely makes those drives much more pleasant.

This feature really adds to the XC90’s reputation as a supremely comfortable and luxurious SUV, offering a truly relaxing experience, especially on longer journeys. If you’re someone who spends a lot of time behind the wheel, or just enjoys a bit of pampering, actively look for this option when choosing your XC90. You might even want to look into a car lumbar support pillow for extra support on non-massaging seats.

Other SUVs with Second-Row Captain’s Chairs

The Volvo XC90 isn’t the only luxury SUV to offer the convenience and comfort of second-row captain’s chairs. Many manufacturers understand the appeal of this seating configuration. If you’re exploring options beyond the XC90, here are a few other popular SUVs that often come with captain’s chairs:

• Kia Telluride / Hyundai Palisade: These popular mid-size SUVs are known for their upscale cabins and generous features, with captain’s chairs available, often feeling very comfortable.
• Chevrolet Tahoe / Suburban & GMC Yukon / Yukon XL: These full-size SUVs are stalwarts in the segment and offer captain’s chairs which Chevy sometimes calls “second-row bucket seats” as standard on higher trims or as an option on lower ones. They are great for massive cargo space and towing.
• Honda Pilot: Another family-friendly SUV that offers second-row captain’s chairs.
• Toyota Grand Highlander: This larger version of the Highlander is designed with a very adult-friendly third row, complemented by second-row captain’s chairs for easy access and more room.
• Cadillac Escalade / Escalade ESV: As luxury large SUVs, captain’s chairs are a common and expected feature, offering serious power and space.
• Lincoln Navigator / Navigator L & Aviator: Lincoln’s luxury SUVs, both full-size and mid-size, provide captain’s chairs, known for their upscale materials and comfortable ride.
• BMW X7: A top-tier luxury SUV that consistently offers captain’s chairs for a premium experience.
• Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class: This high-end SUV also features captain’s chairs, emphasizing luxury and passenger comfort.
• Mazda CX-90: This newer 3-row SUV from Mazda offers flexible seating options, including optional dual captain’s chairs in the second row.
• Acura MDX: This SUV is known for its spaciousness, and all trims offer a multi-functional second row with a removable middle seat, essentially giving you captain’s chair flexibility.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee L / Wagoneer / Grand Wagoneer: Jeep’s larger offerings provide luxurious interiors and the option for second-row captain’s chairs.
• Kia EV9: This electric SUV is another entry with captain’s chairs available.

When looking at these alternatives, you’ll find that captain’s chairs are generally an optional upgrade or standard on higher trim levels. It’s always a good idea to check the specific configuration and trim of any SUV you’re considering to ensure it has the seating arrangement you desire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Volvo XC90 come standard with captain’s chairs?

No, the Volvo XC90 does not come standard with captain’s chairs. The standard configuration for the XC90 is a seven-seater with a second-row bench seat. Captain’s chairs are an available option that changes the seating to a six-passenger layout.

What are the benefits of having captain’s chairs in the XC90?

The main benefits of captain’s chairs in the XC90 include enhanced comfort and more personal space for second-row passengers, better individual adjustability, and significantly easier access to the third row due to the open aisle between the seats. This setup also generally provides a more luxurious feel to the cabin.

On which Volvo XC90 trims can I find captain’s chairs?

You’ll typically find captain’s chairs as an option on higher trim levels of the Volvo XC90, such as the Plus and Ultra or Ultimate for older models. For example, the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 offers the six-seat configuration with captain’s chairs on its Plus and Ultra trims.

Are captain’s chairs available on all model years of the XC90?

Captain’s chairs have been an available feature on several recent model years of the Volvo XC90, including 2025.5, 2025, 2024, and 2023. It appears this option has been around since at least 2019. However, it’s always best to check the specific model year and trim you are interested in, as availability can vary.

Does opting for captain’s chairs affect the cargo space in the XC90?

While captain’s chairs change the passenger seating capacity from seven to six, they don’t significantly impact the overall cargo space when the seats are folded down. The XC90 is known for its flexible cargo area, with up to 85.7 cubic feet available when both the second and third rows are stowed. The individual captain’s chairs still fold down to create a flat loading surface. Your Ultimate Guide to Sewing Machines for Patch Making

Can I add captain’s chairs to my existing Volvo XC90 if it came with a bench seat?

Generally, converting a second-row bench seat to captain’s chairs in an existing vehicle is a complex and often costly modification that involves more than just swapping seats. It can involve changes to floor mounting points, seatbelt anchors, and potentially even structural elements, which is not usually supported by manufacturers as an aftermarket upgrade. It’s typically recommended to purchase an XC90 already configured with captain’s chairs if that’s your preferred setup.

Do captain’s chairs in the XC90 come with armrests and cupholders?

Yes, the captain’s chairs in the Volvo XC90 usually come with individual armrests that can swivel up and down, and often include built-in cupholders. These thoughtful additions further enhance the comfort and convenience for second-row passengers.