Volvo XC90

Inside, the Volvo XC90’s cabin looks and feels very luxurious, accentuated by a tailored dashboard and door panels, as well as premium-looking textile floor mats. Its Nappa leather seats provide all occupants with high-quality cushioning and support both on short and long-distance journeys. You have loads of room in the first and second rows. However, its third row lacks adequate headroom and legroom for adult passengers. But, on the plus side, you get a generous cargo space at the back.

Upfront, you are greeted by an 11.2-inch free-standing center infotainment display that offers Google Services, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. Its infotainment is connected to a 19-speaker Bowers and Wilkins Premium Sound system with a surround sound mode for a very immersive riding experience. 

Meanwhile, drivers have access to a high-tech cockpit, which consists of a 12.3-inch driver display, a tailored leather steering wheel with multiple controls, and a classy Crystal Geartronic gearshifter. For more convenience, this SUV also comes with a rear phone storage, an advanced air purifier, and a high level interior illumination. Additionally, ambience themes and a power-operated panoramic sunroof add to the overall interior aesthetics of the cabin. 

For starters, the Volvo XC90 measures 4,953 mm in length, 1,931 mm in width, and 1,771 mm in height and spans a wheelbase of 2,984 mm. This SUV runs on 21-inch 5-multi-spoked black diamond cut alloy wheels, which look very classy and dynamic on the road. 

The Volvo XC90’s exterior appearance strikes a balance between confidence and elegance whenever it passes by. Its front end is illuminated by hypermodern LED headlights, which adopted Volvo’s 15-segment Matrix design for top-notch visibility, along with the brand’s iconic ‘Thor’s Hammer’ LED DRLs. A subtle yet assertive-looking grille that features diagonal intersecting strakes add more depth to its overall demeanor.

On the sides, its silhouette gives off a strong, durable SUV vibe. It features a nice two-toned look accentuated by chrome window trims and side garnishes. Meanwhile, trailing behind this vehicle is definitely enjoyable because of its smoked LED rear combination lamps. And, to enhance its overall look, it gets a power tailgate. 

In terms of suspension, the Volvo XC90 comes with the brand’s active chassis with air suspension. This advanced suspension setup allows this SUV to effortlessly eat up bumps and other road imperfections, while minimizing body rolls among the passengers inside the cabin. For its size, it handles well and has a responsive steering–enhancing the driver’s overall cruising experience. 

The Volvo XC90 runs on the brand’s hybrid system, which combines a 2L, inline-4, turbo charger engine with an electric motor. Its hybrid powertrain has a maximum power output of 462 hp and a maximum torque of 709 Nm. Its electric motor delivers a WLTP pure electric range of up to 77 km. It comes mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission system and an electric all-wheel drivetrain.

Off the line, this luxury SUV is impressively swift and smooth. It makes light work of quick overtakes on free-flowing highways. However, similar to the XC60, its fuel economy tends to drop when you are aggressive on the pedal. Its pure electric range is also a bit limited for long-distance trips out of town. But, at the end of the day, it is still a very feasible transportation for your daily Metro Manila commute if driven sensibly. 

In terms of safety, the Volvo XC90 is equipped with a very long list of advanced safety features. This includes a 360-degree camera with a 3D view, adaptive cruise control, emergency stop assist, front and rear park assist, rain sensor, driver alert system, blind spot information system, front and rear cross traffic alert, rear collision warning and mitigation, pedestrian, cyclist, and scooter steering avoidance, as well as Volvo’s Pilot Assist among others. Its disc brakes are also supported by an anti-lock braking system and electronic stability control.

In my opinion, the Volvo XC90 can be considered a jack-of-all-trades. It excels in the areas that define great family transportation: comfort, usability, practicality, and performance. That said, it definitely deserves more attention from local consumers.