The undersigned went to Copenhagen for a test drive.
The XC90 has been successful for the brand. (Photo: Volvo Cars)Many small streams
The updates to the Volvo XC90 are far from revolutionary, but they ensure that the model remains relevant for a number of years to come.
The XC90 has been a great success for Volvo and marked a clear move towards a more luxurious segment, not least in the home market Sweden where its status as a people’s car has long been cemented.
On the exterior, the XC90 has received new air intakes, a modified hood, updated bumpers as well as new rims and darker taillights. It is very tastefully done and the XC90 remains as elegant as before.
Under the shell we find new dampers that adapt to frequency instead of speed, which contributes to noticeably improved comfort both at low and high speeds.
The updates are not revolutionary. (Photo: Volvo Cars)
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Improved interior and infotainment
On the inside, Volvo has invested in new materials, improved sound insulation and an 11.2-inch infotainment screen. The screen, which houses Google’s system, is exemplary small and a good complement to the interior, although the ease of use leaves some room for improvement.
There are also some cosmetic features taken from the Volvo EX90.
The feeling of quality is still high, and the controls provide a satisfying tactile feel. In addition, the sound system is still one of the best in the class.
The interior of the XC90 is decidedly cozy. (Photo: Volvo Cars)
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Comfort in focus
Our test car, a Volvo XC90 T8 with 22-inch rims and winter tires, delivered a pleasant driving experience even though the road conditions were not very wintry. The XC90 is clearly designed with comfort in mind rather than sportiness, and the car feels both safe and relaxed to drive.
The steering is very light, which makes the car feel smaller than it is. The front and rear seats are comfortable, while the third row of seats is best suited for children.
The new XC90 has comfort as its trump card. (Photo: Volvo Cars)
Only as a plug-in hybrid
In Sweden, the XC90 is only offered as a plug-in hybrid, and the electric range is around five miles in actual driving. The transition between electric and petrol operation is barely noticeable, except during strong acceleration when the interaction can sometimes take a while.
The four-wheel drive is handled by the combustion engine at the front and the electric motor at the rear. There is also a mode for permanent four-wheel drive, but this is dependent on the battery’s charge level.
The XC90 is one of the few seven-seat plug-in hybrids on the market. (Photo: Volvo Cars)
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A continued family favourite
With this update, Volvo has succeeded in refining an already successful concept. The comfort level is high, the design still measures up and it is noticeable that every detail has received great care. For example, the belts in the middle row are height adjustable, which is an important safety detail.
As a seven-seat plug-in hybrid, the XC90 is relatively unique, but has cheaper competitors in the form of the Kia Sorento PHEV.
Having said that, the XC90 stands out as one of the most complete SUVs in its class. A high price tag and limited electric range are drawbacks, but the car’s comfort, luxury and elegance make it a strong choice in the segment.
A more extensive test at home will show how well it stacks up against the competition.
The new XC90 enters a tough segment. (Photo: Volvo XC90)First impressions of the Volvo XC90: 4/5
Engine: 2-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, electric motor, 455 horsepower, 709 newton meters
Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel drive
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 5.4 seconds
Top speed: 180 km/h
Electrical range: 69 km
Weight: 2,297 kg
Dimensions (length/width/height): 4953/2140/1767 mm
Price: From SEK 994,000