Faced with the electrification imposed by Europe – ban on the sale of thermal cars in 2035 – certain manufacturers have taken the lead, even announcing that they are anticipating all-electric vehicles. Only, from the cup to the lips there is a world. And as sales of “wattures” are stagnating almost everywhere on the continent, some are putting their foot down on the abandonment of thermal versions. Thus Volvo has decided to extend the Volvo XC90 born in 2014. Already retouched in 2019, the Volvo XC90 now benefits from an updated face, with a new hood, revised fenders as well as the headlights, grille, and shield. The unchanged profile and the stern barely revised (the optics adopt black contours) confirm, however, that the large SUV retains its fundamentals. The evolution is the same on board, with, as a main course, a welcome update to the telematics system.
Telematics more intuitive than before
Beyond the screen enlarged from 9 to 11.2 inches now enclosed between vents with vertical grilles (instead of horizontal), it’s the new interface that makes life easier. Inspired by what the EX30 and EX90 offer, the panel is both more intuitive and responsive than before, with Google applications still available – without forgetting Apple CarPlay for Apple fans. It still requires too many “taps” on the screen to access the air conditioning functions, driving aids or driving modes. But, at least, the organization is simplified, while an elegant white line at the bottom of the screen serves as a “back” key. More physical buttons would not have displeased us, especially since those on the steering wheel are not well enough marked to be used with your eyes closed. But this stripped-down side contributes to the Scandinavian atmosphere that reigns on board. The ash and light upholstery of our Ultra finish are a hit, especially since the high level of production quality is a pleasure to see. With attention to beautiful detail, like the knob of the mini gear lever in Swedish crystal from Orrefors.
Plenty of space and 2 extra seats
Among other developments, we note that the induction charger has migrated under the central screen and that the armrest between the front seats is evolving. On the other hand, the front seats don’t change and that’s good! They are still as welcoming and comfortable, knowing that the customer now has the choice between upholstery made from recycled materials (such as pine oil from local forests) or, as here, a classic nappa leather (€2,200). In addition to this cream color, the seats are available in gray and anthracite, the latter being the least dirty for this family-oriented Volvo XC90. In France, this is only offered in a 7-seater version, knowing that you are best seated at the front. Indeed, if there is no shortage of space in the second row, where you benefit from three independent and sliding seats, the seats lack thickness for adults. Narrower than the others, the central seat is dedicated to children, which incorporates a booster seat in its seat. We are, however, better received there than in the 3rd row where the space is disappointing given the 4.95 m long and 2.98 m wheelbase of the Volvo XC90. Those over 1.75 m will have their heads touching the roof, while the short seats too close to the ground will only amuse toddlers. Furthermore, at this price – €97,700 in Start finish or €105,000 here in Ultra – we would have appreciated if the seat operations were done electrically rather than using the force of the wrist… As for the trunk, if it is reduced to its bare minimum with seven seats on board (262 dm3 announced), it is giant once the bottom folding seats are folded into the floor (640 dm3).
Perfect for cutting the road
On the other hand, the technical part only evolves marginally. Soundproofing has been reinforced with the addition of foam in the uprights, complementing the optional laminated glazing (€1,080). On the suspension side, the Volvo XC90 is now equipped with FSD technology as standard (Frequency Selective Damping), that is to say passive shock absorbers with two laws… which have hardly convinced us elsewhere (BMW, Mercedes, etc.). But it’s impossible to try them today because our Volvo XC90 on test offers the already known optional air suspension (€2,450). This varies the ride height from -2 cm to +4 cm depending on the driving mode, knowing that a button in the trunk allows the car to be lowered to facilitate loading. Very good at absorbing large deformations and speed bumps, this damping has a little more difficulty filtering all the beats coming from the huge 22-inch wheels present (21-inch as standard). Still, serenity is required on board, especially since The Volvo XC90 does not drown its driver with a slew of settings. Simply select from Hybrid, Dynamic, Pure (100% electric) and AWD driving modes and the suspension, steering and throttle response adapt.
A nice alternative to the Volvo EX90
Smoothness and ease of driving are on the program for this SUV weighing 2,297 kg in running order in this plug-in hybrid T8 variant, the only one available in France. This combines a 310 hp 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine with a 145 hp electric unit for a cumulative output of 455 hp. More than enough to move this large Volvo vigorously, with 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. But more than sportiness, we will talk about quiet strength for this Volvo XC90, whose chassis is more calibrated for the highway than for mountain bends. The useful 14.7 kWh battery officially offers 68 to 87 km of electric range depending on use, knowing that the car only offers a regeneration mode. By switching to B via the gear lever, the Volvo XC90 offers enough slowdown to go to a stop without touching the brakes.
This is an attractive proposition for fans of large Volvos not yet ready to succumb to the 100% electric EX90, knowing that the latter, in Ultra version like the Volvo XC90, is priced at the same premium price of €105,000.
