If you’re eyeing a Volvo EX90 and wondering, **“Can this thing actually tow a trailer?”**, the short answer is yes. The Volvo EX90 can tow a trailer, and it’s been engineered from day one with towing in mind. But how much can it tow, what kind of trailers make sense, and what happens to range when you hitch up? Let’s walk through what you should know before you put a camper, boat, or utility trailer behind an EX90.
Quick Answer
Can the Volvo EX90 Actually Tow a Trailer?
From the factory, the **Volvo EX90 is a legitimate tow vehicle**, not just an electric people-mover with a token hitch. Volvo publishes a maximum braked towing capacity of 4,850 lb (about 2,200 kg) for both Twin Motor and Twin Motor Performance versions in the U.S. market. That’s in the same ballpark as many three-row gas crossovers and plug‑in hybrids.
That tow rating means the EX90 can comfortably handle a **mid-size camper, a fiberglass fishing boat, or a loaded utility trailer**, as long as you’re realistic about weight and range. It’s not designed to pull a huge toy hauler or a 30‑foot Airstream, but for typical family towing, it’s very capable.
Always Verify Your Specific EX90
Volvo EX90 Towing Specs: Ratings You Need to Know
Volvo EX90 Towing & Payload At a Glance (U.S.)
Here’s how the **core towing numbers** for the Volvo EX90 shake out for U.S. models:
Volvo EX90 Factory Towing & Load Ratings (U.S. Models)
Key factory ratings that matter when you tow with a Volvo EX90. Always double‑check your door‑jamb label and owner’s manual.
| Specification | Twin Motor | Twin Motor Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing capacity (braked) | 4,850 lb | 4,850 lb |
| Typical tongue weight limit | ~10% of tow rating (~485 lb) | ~10% of tow rating (~485 lb) |
| Max towing capacity (unbraked)* | Approx. 1,650 lb (750 kg) | Approx. 1,650 lb (750 kg) |
| Roof load rating | 220 lb | 220 lb |
| Drive | Dual‑motor AWD | Dual‑motor AWD |
| Battery (gross / usable) | 111 / 107 kWh | 111 / 107 kWh |
These values are typical for 2024–2025 U.S. EX90 models and may vary slightly by configuration.
Braked vs. Unbraked Trailers
What Kind of Trailers Can a Volvo EX90 Tow Safely?
Once you know the numbers, the real question is what that looks like in the real world. Within its 4,850 lb braked rating, the EX90 is well‑suited to many everyday trailers, especially if you keep weights conservative and pay attention to aerodynamics.
Common Trailers the Volvo EX90 Can Tow
Assuming proper hitch, brakes where required, and staying within weight and tongue limits.
Boats & Water Toys
- 17–20 ft fiberglass fishing boat on a steel trailer
- Small wake boat or bowrider, carefully loaded
- Pair of jet skis on a dual trailer
Campers & Travel Trailers
- Lightweight 18–22 ft travel trailer
- Pop‑up camper or teardrop trailer
- Small off‑road camping trailer
Utility & Cargo Trailers
- 5×8 or 6×10 utility trailer with landscaping gear
- Home‑renovation debris or lumber
- Small enclosed cargo trailer under ~4,000 lb loaded
Watch Total Weight, Not Just Trailer Rating
- Aim to stay at least 10–15% under the 4,850 lb rating for long trips or mountainous routes.
- Use a weight‑distribution hitch for heavier travel trailers to improve stability and braking.
- Keep tongue weight around 10–12% of trailer weight to reduce sway (within your tongue‑weight limit).
How Far Can a Volvo EX90 Tow on One Charge?
This is where the story changes compared to a gas XC90. On paper, the EX90 offers **up to about 305 miles of EPA‑estimated range** without a trailer. In real‑world highway driving at 70 mph, independent testing has put it closer to the mid‑200‑mile range in normal conditions, still without anything hitched.
Put a trailer behind it and you’re fighting two enemies: **weight** and **aerodynamic drag**. Most owners and testers see something like a **35–55% drop in effective range** when towing a boxy camper at highway speeds. Low, sleek boat trailers usually do a bit better; tall, flat‑fronted campers do worse.
Light Trailer, Gentle Speeds
Think 1,500–2,500 lb pop‑up camper or small boat, with careful packing and moderate speeds (55–60 mph).
- Typical consumption: 30–40 kWh/100 mi
- Usable battery: ~107 kWh
- Ballpark towing range: 160–220 miles per charge
Heavier, Boxy Camper
Think 3,500–4,500 lb travel trailer with a tall, square nose, running 65–70 mph.
- Typical consumption: 45–60 kWh/100 mi (or more)
- Usable battery: ~107 kWh
- Ballpark towing range: 110–160 miles per charge
Plan Around Charging, Not Just Range
Hitch, Tow Package & Wiring: What the EX90 Needs
To tow safely with a Volvo EX90, you’ll want the **factory towing package**, not an improvised aftermarket setup. On U.S. models, the tow package typically adds a **retractable tow hitch**, trailer‑wiring connector, and software that lets the car recognize and manage trailer mode.
Volvo EX90 Towing Equipment Checklist
1. Factory retractable tow hitch
The EX90’s OEM hitch folds out from behind the bumper. It’s engineered to work with the vehicle’s structure, sensor suite, and software. This is the best option if you plan to tow near the top of the rating.
2. Correct ball mount & ball size
Make sure the hitch uses the correct ball size (often 2" for U.S. campers and cargo trailers) and that your ball mount is rated well above your planned trailer weight.
3. Trailer wiring & brake controller
Your EX90 will include a wiring connector; for heavier electric‑braked trailers, you’ll also need a compatible brake controller to meet legal requirements and reduce stopping distances.
4. Proper EV‑ready trailer tires
On the trailer side, use correctly rated tires and keep them properly inflated. Under‑inflated trailer tires are a common cause of sway and blowouts, especially with EV torque on tap.
5. Weight‑distribution hitch when needed
If your tongue weight creeps toward the upper end of the EX90’s rating, a weight‑distribution hitch can help keep the SUV level and improve steering feel and braking.
Don’t DIY Critical Tow Hardware
Driving & Charging Tips When Towing With an EX90
The EX90’s dual‑motor AWD and instant torque actually make it pleasant to tow. The trick is changing your driving and charging habits to match EV realities. Here are practical tips drawn from towing experience with electric SUVs and Volvo’s own guidance.
Smart Towing Habits for EX90 Owners
Small changes in how you drive and plan can make a big difference in safety and range.
Drive Slower Than You Think
- Even dropping from 70 mph to 60 mph can noticeably reduce consumption.
- High speeds + headwinds + boxy trailers are range killers.
- Use smooth throttle inputs to avoid wasting energy.
Plan Charger‑Friendly Routes
- Choose highways with reliable DC fast chargers every 60–100 miles.
- Expect to stop a bit more often but for shorter sessions.
- Check whether you’ll need to briefly unhook the trailer at some stations.
Watch Weather & Elevation
- Cold temps and steep climbs both increase energy use.
- Headwinds hurt more than you think with a trailer.
- Give yourself extra range margin in winter or mountains.
Use Trailer Mode & Aids
- Let the EX90’s driver‑assist systems help, but don’t rely on them blindly.
- Some ADAS features may behave differently or be limited when towing.
- Practice backing and low‑speed maneuvers in an empty lot.
Towing Comfort Is a Strong Suit
Volvo EX90 vs. Other EV Towers
If you’re cross‑shopping EVs for towing, the EX90 lands in the **upper middle of the pack**. It can’t match the brute force of a Rivian R1T or Ford F‑150 Lightning, but it stacks up very well against other three‑row electric SUVs.
How the Volvo EX90 Compares to Other EV Towers
Approximate maximum factory towing capacities for popular electric vehicles.
| Model | Type | Max Tow Rating (braked) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volvo EX90 | 3‑row SUV | 4,850 lb | Strong rating for a luxury family EV |
| Tesla Model X | 3‑row SUV | 5,000 lb | Similar class; slightly higher rating |
| Kia EV9 | 3‑row SUV | 5,000 lb | Comparable size and use case |
| Hyundai IONIQ 5 | 2‑row crossover | 2,300 lb | Better for light trailers only |
| Rivian R1T | Pickup | 11,000 lb | Serious heavy‑duty towing |
| Ford F‑150 Lightning | Pickup | 10,000 lb (max) | Requires specific tow package |
Always check specific model year and configuration before towing; numbers shown are typical published max ratings.
For a buyer who wants **one vehicle that can haul the family, tow a decent‑size trailer, and stay relatively efficient**, the EX90 is a compelling middle ground. It tows more than most compact EV crossovers, while staying more maneuverable and efficient than electric pickups.
Buying a Used Volvo EX90 for Towing: What to Check
If you’re considering a **used Volvo EX90 specifically for towing**, you’ll want to look beyond the usual walk‑around and test drive. Towing puts extra demands on the battery, drivetrain, and brakes, so a bit of due diligence pays off.
Used EX90 Towing Buyer’s Checklist
Confirm it has the factory tow package
Look for the retractable hitch, proper wiring connector, and trailer settings in the infotainment system. Retrofitting the right parts later can be costly.
Review battery health & charging history
Towing isn’t inherently bad for batteries, but frequent DC fast charging and heavy loads can add heat. A <strong>Recharged Score</strong> battery health report can give you objective data on pack condition.
Inspect tires, brakes & suspension
An EX90 that has done a lot of towing may show more wear on rear tires, brake components, and bushings. Uneven tire wear or vibrations under load can signal alignment or suspension issues.
Ask about what it towed
A few summer trips with a 3,000 lb camper is very different from constant max‑weight towing. Ask the previous owner or dealer about real‑world use if you can.
Check software & recalls
Make sure all software updates and recalls are complete, important for towing‑related systems like stability control, brake‑by‑wire, and driver assists.
How Recharged Can Help
Volvo EX90 Towing FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Towing With a Volvo EX90
Bottom Line: Is the Volvo EX90 a Good EV for Towing?
If you want a **family‑friendly, all‑electric SUV that can genuinely tow a trailer**, the Volvo EX90 deserves a hard look. With a 4,850 lb tow rating, dual‑motor traction, and a big 111 kWh battery, it’s more capable than most EV crossovers and right in the hunt with other three‑row electric SUVs.
You’ll need to accept that **range drops sharply with a trailer** and that long‑distance towing requires more planning than with a gasoline XC90. But if your use case is a few camping trips, weekend boat runs, or occasional utility hauling, the EX90 offers a compelling blend of comfort, safety, and towing confidence.
And if you’re shopping used, pairing the EX90’s towing chops with a transparent battery‑health report and EV‑savvy guidance, like you get from Recharged, can help you find the right example for your trailer, your family, and your budget.
