The 2021 XC90 plug-in (Volvo Recharge/T8 Twin Engine lineage) pairs a 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and an 8-speed automatic; the heavy battery sits under the floor so interior space is good but kerb weight is high. Real-world economy depends heavily on charging habits — if you regularly top up the battery you’ll see excellent running costs, but uncharged use returns higher-than-expected petrol consumption. Servicing can be pricier than mainstream makes and software/firmware updates from a Volvo dealer are common, so check for those.

• Hybrid battery state-of-health report (capacity % and any cell imbalance) and verify charging port, on-board charger and cables work
• Evidence of hybrid-system servicing / inverter checks and any Volvo dealer software recalls or updates applied
• Automatic transmission service history (fluid change intervals) and smoothness of gear shifts at different temperatures
• Condition and operation of the optional third-row seats (mechanisms, latches) and inspect rear suspension for sag if the car carried loads/people regularly
• Brake discs/pads and tyres for uneven wear (heavy regenerative braking patterns can hide corrosion or unusual pad wear)