The
previous generation XC90 was our favorite luxury 4x4. It wasn’t as sharp to
drive as a BMW X5 and the interior wasn’t classy like an Audi Q7 but it had a
charm that was hard to ignore. Now the newer XC90 really does have a lot to
live up to; not only in terms of helping Volvo stay afloat but also stamping
it’s mark in the ever crowded ever serious luxury 4x4 segment. Tough gig!
Volvo
does start off on the right notes with the new XC90 because both the exterior
and interior looks are absolutely stunning; both help the XC90 leap light years
ahead of the previous generation. Dare we say the XC90 is the most handsome 4x4
in this segment? But how does this all translate onto the road?
The
sole engine choice for now is a 2-liter turbocharged and supercharged
four-cylinder pumping out a hearty 315hp with standard all-wheel-drive. You
might think that a tiny four-cylinder isn’t up to the job in the XC90 but
you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how flexible the engine really is. We haven’t
tested the XC90 fully laden but we are pretty sure that it won’t struggle
thanks to a maximum tow rating of 5,000lbs.
Our
tester car came equipped with air suspension and 20-inch alloys and the ride
quality is actually good. Large bumps won’t even send shutters into the cabin. Handling
is okay it won’t defy logic like a BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne but it holds its
own well. Steering is smooth and offers excellent feedback. Refinement is good in
the XC90, when at relaxed speeds you can barely hear a peep out of the engine
and road noise is virtually unheard of. There is a bit of wind noise around the
side mirrors but it’s far from intrusive or annoying.
Volvo
has the best seats in the auto industry hands down. These seats provide enough
comfort for drivers of all sizes. The infotainment system is actually quite
easy to use and of course you get a full nine-inch display which adds a bit of
class to the overall look and feel. All the controls are within easy reach and
your view forwards and backwards is good. Boot space is okay with the third row
seat in place. Fold the third row seat down and you’ve got even more space,
fold down both rows and you have so much space that you would need a transit
van if you find the space lacking.
The
third row seat is actually quite roomy for adults, even though most will only
tolerate it for short journeys. The second row space is generous too, in fact
this is one of the few seven-seat 4x4s we’ve ever driven where the balance
between utility and people carrier is so good that we have to give it a
standing ovation.
T6-AWD
gets navigation system, rain sensing windshield wipers and lane departure
warning. T6 R-design adds integrated body-kit with 20-inch alloys and full-LED
headlights. T6 AWD Inscription adds Nappa leather seating, ventilated seating
surfaces and keyless entry with hands-free tailgate opening system. The amount
of kit you get standard for the money is actually much more generous then what
you would typically get standard on a BMW X5 and Mercedes ML.
We
challenge you to find a BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne with the same equipment for
similar money and what you’ll find is all the reasons why the XC90 is the
better buy. It may not have the resale value of both brands yet but this XC90
looks promising and we do predict that the value will hold very well. Running costs
are similar to that of the BMW and Porsche and even though Volvo doesn’t offer
a diesel engine it will eventually offer a plug-in hybrid option which is
predicted to be one of the greenest seven-seat 4x4s on sale until the Tesla
Model-X arrives of course.
Interior
quality is superb and many of the plastics feel classy and upmarket; a far
departure from the previous generation. Volvo has scored above-average in
reliability and we do see this being a new trend for years to come. If Volvo had
a middle name it would be safety and everything that you could ever possibly want
in terms of safety kit Volvo has it. The most notable of these systems is the
city braking which works at speeds up to 30mph, by slowing you down and bring
you to a complete stop if the driver so happens to take his or her eyes off the
road.
When
you think of luxury 4x4s most will venture to the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne because
well both are good in their own right. However, the XC90 is better than both in
its own way. It may not be as sharp to drive or defy logic, but it is a
comfortable cruiser with an outstanding interior and can really fit seven
people aboard. Plus it is one of the most handsome looking 4x4s we have ever
seen in a while. Volvo really did tick all the right buttons and play all the
right notes with the new XC90. Hopefully the new looks and well equipped
trim-levels will lure buyers in because passing one up without giving it a real
gander is a real shame because this 4x4 is a gem.
Devon’s
pick: T6 AWD R-design is where our money would go. It feels like you get a lot
of car for your money and still somehow you undercut the X5 and you’re still
way below what you would have to pay if you picked the Cayenne. It’s classy and
stylish plus we just love those LED headlights.
Like:
The XC90 is the most handsome 4x4 in the segment and that style carries inside
too. Infotainment system is easy to use and those seats are the best. It can
really fit seven people aboard and somehow manages to undercut the heavy
hitters in kit and price.
Dislikes:
The auto gearbox is a little sluggish to react.
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