Volvo

Volvo XC90 Review, Specs & Performance

The Volvo XC90 is a stylish seven-seater SUV that impresses. There's an excellent interior and lots of space, as well as plenty of equipment to enjoy.

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VOLVO XC90

Overview of the Volvo XC90

Engines and performance for the Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 offers a range of petrol and diesel engines, including mild hybrid alternatives. There's also an excellent all-electric offering in the shape of the XC90 Recharge. All models are mated to an impressive eight-speed automatic gearbox and the entry-level diesel engine delivers economy of 44 mpg. The T6 petrol unit delivers great performance but economy of 31 mpg. The T8 twin-engine has a claimed economy of 113 mpg, while the Recharge model has a 240 mile range.

Volvo XC90

Volvo XC90 in a nutshell

Equipment and handling

The Volvo XC90 was refreshed in 2019 with a number of firsts for the range. Among them was the introduction of an advanced energy recovery braking system for the models with the 'B' badge. These models deliver better economy of up to 15% and lower emissions. The exterior was also subtly tweaked, including new colours and wheels to choose from.

Safety

Volvo is also renowned for the safety equipment on its cars and the XC90 is no exception and features include steering help with blind spot information and city safety that recognises cyclists, pedestrians and large animals. Volvo has also added 'oncoming lane mitigation', which was featured first on the excellent XC60, to help the car automatically avoid any oncoming collision. There's also cross traffic alert and an improved safety cage to boost passive safety technology. The XC90 is an excellent family car and it's one of the safest currently available.

Technology

There's a very good entertainment system featuring smartphone integration with satnav. There's also a powered tailgate, comfortable leather seats and 19-inch alloy wheels.

steering

On the road, the suspension is well balanced and there's little in the way of body lean when cornering at speed, but it really stands out as a comfortable motorway cruiser. It's also a nice car to drive around town and it's surprisingly easy to park, despite the size. The steering itself is light and the car delivers good grip thanks to the automatic gearbox delivering power to all four wheels.

Round up of the Volvo XC90

Standard equipment also features parking sensors, a full leather trim, LED headlights while other models have larger alloy wheels, exterior styling changes and the top range model features the firm's air suspension system for delivering high comfort levels. Essentially, the Volvo XC90 is a large and luxurious family SUV offering and it's one that also offers space for seven people and in a competitive segment, the XC90 offers a value for money vehicle with a lot to like.

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