Things we like
- Sharp exterior styling
- Excellent packaging & impeccable safety credentials
- Grippy dynamics
Not so much
- No top tether points in third row
- PHEV drops rear climate controls
- Small 9.0-inch centre touchscreen
The Volvo XC90 has consistently been celebrated as an emblem of luxury and safety within the large SUV segment.
The 2024 XC90 Ultimate upholds this esteemed tradition, delivering a polished and elegant driving experience. As Volvo's premier SUV, the XC90 melds the company's dedication to safety with unmatched luxury and comfort.
With Volvo's aim to transition to all-electric vehicles by 2030, the journey begins with a series of mild-hybrid powertrains in the XC90.
And almost 10 years after it launched, the amount of finesse in the vehicle continues to carry on the Volvo legacy. The XC90 even won our 2023 Best Large Luxury SUVs comparison.
Pricing and Features
The Volvo XC90 Ultimate is a luxury 7-seater SUV available in two grades – Plus and Ultimate . The range-topping Ultimate is priced from $108,990 before on-road costs.
There's a substantial 220kW and 420Nm available via the 'B6' 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo is aided by an electric supercharger and a 48-volt sub-system.
A less powerful 'B6' mild-hybrid engine is available for the Ultimate variant.
The minimalist cabin's design echoes that of an upscale Scandinavian furniture boutique, radiating luxury and demonstrating impeccable construction quality.
The sole feature that hints at the Volvo's age is the 9-inch, portrait-style touchscreen. While smaller than many of its rivals, its functionality remains top-notch.
The Ultimate is available in two styles: Bright and Dark.
Features that are standard on the Plus variant include:
20-inch alloy wheels | Heated front seats |
360-degree camera | Leather accented seats |
9-inch infotainment screen | LED headlights |
Apple Carplay and Android Auto (wireless) | Power adjustable front seats |
Auto dimming rear view mirrors | Power hands-free tailgate |
Blind spot monitor | Rain sensing wipers |
Dual-zone climate control | Retractable door mirrors |
Front and rear parking sensors | Wireless charger |
Heads up display |
Moving up to the Ultimate Bright adds:
21-inch alloy wheels | Heated rear seats |
Body-coloured door handles | Heated steering wheel |
Crystal gear knob | Tailored dashboard and door top panels |
Front grille in Matte silver with chrome frame |
The Dark option offers 22-inch alloys, gloss black accents throughout and more for an extra $2140.
Safety
The XC90 is currently not ANCAP rated but did receive 5-stars when the same generation was assessed back in 2015.
However safety inclusion are evident in the XC90, with some of Volvo's latest suite of safety technologies and driver aids.
This includes advanced features like Pilot Assist, a 360-degree camera, and numerous active safety systems designed to protect passengers and pedestrians alike.
Standard on all XC90 grades are safety features such as blind spot monitors and rear cross traffic alert.
Key Rivals
The XC90 competes against other 5 and 7-seater luxury large SUVS including:
Should I Put It On My Shortlist?
The 2023 Volvo XC90 Ultimate shone through our best luxury SUV test as a vehicle full of poise and luxurious merit.
Its focus on advanced safety features, along with a luxurious and spacious interior, makes it an ideal vehicle for families and those looking for Scandanavian style.
If you're in the market for a premium SUV that offers more than just status, the XC90 Ultimate is certainly worth considering.
Things we like
- Sharp exterior styling
- Excellent packaging & impeccable safety credentials
- Grippy dynamics
Not so much
- No top tether points in third row
- PHEV drops rear climate controls
- Small 9.0-inch centre touchscreen
COMMENTS