COTY
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Impressive SUV takes Swedes to higher ground.
THERE are no excuses for the new XC90. With a new platform, engines and in-house development from the ground up, this is Gothenburg’s chance to prove that it can produce a genuinely world-class car under its Chinese owner, Geely.
And yes, it really has delivered.
The XC90’s exterior was designed by a German, its interior by a Brit, and the two shining black beauties supplied by Volvo were lauded for their style, both inside and out.
The D5 Inscription, XC90’s mid-spec starting at $96,950, is powered by an all-new 2.0-litre turbo-diesel making 165kW and a solid 470Nm from 1750-2500rpm. The petrol XC90 T6, here in entry-level Momentum trim producing 235kW/400Nm, shares the diesel’s 1969cc capacity and eight-speed automatic gearbox.
The front cabin initially dazzled with its excellent surfacing, tactile materials, crisp digital dash and that ‘Tesla reaction’ 12.3-inch centre touchscreen. Gradually, however, the cabin’s freshness began to wear off, thanks to the presence of the Q7.
On its air suspension (a $3760 option) and 21-inch wheels, the D5 looked even better at a standstill than the steel-sprung T6 on 20s. The larger rim choices are worth noting, as Audi (cleverly) stuck with its standard 19-inch wheels for both Q7s.
Laying on the talent is the characterful diesel – so refined you wouldn’t know which bowser to pull up to – and the gutsy, rev-happy petrol, underlining the competence of Volvo’s new engine family.
Yet the XC90 is a clear win for the Swedes. Its impressive fundamentals provide a rock-solid foundation for Volvos of the future. Plus, it has personality, and that’s a virtue you can’t measure.
