Volvo XC90

• I like the updated look of the Volvo XC90, which retains its elegance but looks sharper at the same time.

• The angled lines on the grille, sleek LED DRLs, 20-inch alloy wheels and the detailed LED taillights look premium.

• The clean lines and sophisticated design give it an unmatched feel of understated luxury.

• I feel the Mulberry Red exterior colour suits the XC90’s elegant design really well.

• With a straightforward yet elegant design and a rich range of material selection, the XC90’s cabin feels very posh and welcoming.

• The crystal gear knob design, mesh detailing on the speaker covers and tactile feel of the buttons and switches – all feel very rich.

• Three interior trims to choose from: Charcoal, Brown Ash with Charcoal, and Blond with Charcoal.

• The comfort and support of the front seats is great for all frames, especially with the amount of adjustability on offer.

• I found the space in the second row to be ample enough to comfortably seat a 6 footer behind another. Recline and slide adjustability further improves space and comfort.

• There’s also enough width to accommodate three average adults, but for small journeys.

• The third row will be best used by small kids or pets. I like that all three rows have dedicated AC vents.

• Storage spaces are plenty with a sizable glovebox and central armrest, bottle pockets in the doors, and multiple cup holders.

Features

• Volvo XC90’s features list has a high focus on comfort and convenience.

• Both driver and passenger seats are powered with memory, massage, ventilation and heated functionality. I really like the amount of adjustability on offer.

• Both digital screens have crisp graphics and swift response times. There’s wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as well.

• The 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system has superb audio quality.

• The XC90 packs all the safety features you’ll ever want and need, including multiple airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system, and a host of autonomous driving assistance features (ADAS).

• While there’s no safety rating for facelifted XC90, the pre-facelift model did score a full five star rating from the Euro and Australian NCAP.

• Even with all the three rows up, the XC90 can accommodate multiple small cabin trolleys.

• Both the second and third row seats fold flat if you need to store larger bags.

• The Volvo XC90 gets a single 2-litre turbo-petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid tech. It is paired with a 8-speed AT that sends power to all four wheels (all-wheel drive).

• Claimed 0-100kmph time of 7.7 seconds suggests ample performance for all conditions.

• The facelift only gets the lower spec version of the engine, as the outgoing model also had a 300PS version.

The new Volvo XC90 is available in a single variant, called the Ultra.

Is the Volvo XC90 right for you?

If you’re somebody who appreciates understated luxury and want a 7-seater SUV for your family, then the Volvo XC90 might be a good option. The minimalist design, and thoughtful interior tones and materials feel timeless, and its feature and safety package feels more than adequate as well.  

Other cars to consider instead of the Volvo XC90

Audi Q7

Reasons to consider

• More affordable

• More powerful engine

Reasons to not consider

• Cabin doesn’t feel as premium

BMW X5

Reasons to consider

• More powerful petrol engine

• Option of a diesel

Reasons to ignore

• No third row seating

• Feels less family oriented

Mercedes-Benz GLE

Reasons to consider

• More powerful petrol engine

• Option of a diesel

Reasons to ignore

• No third row seating

• Busy cabin styling might put off some people