The all-new Volvo XC90 represents a huge step forward for the Swedish manufacturer in the 4x4 market. Andrew Frankel takes one for a spin
Volvo XC90 2.0 D5 Inscription
This model from £50,185
The new XC90 catapulted Volvo from near the back of the full-sized SUV class to the very front row, where it stands proud even among competition as hot as the Range Rover Sport. This is a new car from end-to-end, offering all of Volvo’s usual safety credentials – and the famed integral central child seat – but with a level of quality and design flair never visited upon a Volvo until now. The cabin is not just Volvo’s most spacious to date, it’s the most attractive too, offering a navigation map you can zoom in and out of by stretching your fingers across the touchscreen, just as you might on your favourite smartphone.
All XC90s come with 2-litre, four-cylinder engines, making for a refined drive, whether you’re touring or towing. But the diesel is clearly the smart choice for anyone keeping an eye on costs. It’s not the smoothest motor but it offers strong performance with impressive fuel consumption, too.
Performance
- Engine: 1969cc, 225bhp
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Top speed: 137mph
- 0-60mph acceleration: 7.8sec
Costs
- Claimed economy: 48.7mpg
- VED: Group G
