2022 Volvo XC90
The current generation of Volvo’s lineup began with the reimagining of the XC90. The luxury mid-size three-row SUV grew to its flagship status by being stately while keeping within Volvo’s brand values.
However, the XC90 has been challenged by newer entries into its size and price class. Because of its loyal customers, this SUV remains relevant even as it is getting on in years.
Do you think the Volvo XC90 is still relevant in your eyes?
It is easy to dismiss the boxy appearance of the XC90. One needs to look very closely to see that there are curves, textures and other visual tricks that entertain the eye from the protection blade in the lower fascia to the oddly shaped tall taillight assembly.
Actually, the look of the XC90 is absolutely luxurious. You know an XC90 when you face its massive scalloped grille and the “Thor” hammer headlamps. The glass space is generous with great vision along the sides and out back.
Volvo had always been known for logical and neat interior spaces. Most of it has been dictated by their own stringent safety standards that are ahead of this industry. There is also a marriage of form and function starting with the customizable and dynamic digital instrument binnacle. The instrument panel itself is a work of design precision, offering both luxurious touches and ergonomic simplicity. That also includes the infotainment screen that dominates the center stack. The switchgear for the XC90 is accessible offering great touch, feel, and logic.
The Momentum's leatherette seating offers both comfort and support with various settings to choose from. On top of power-assisted adjustments for height, rake, and recline, there are also bolster, lumbar, and cushion extension adjustments available for both the driver and front passenger.
Second-row occupants can adjust their seats for recline and rake. Third-row seating is easily accessible with a quick flip-move of the second-row outboard seat. There is also up to 85.7 cubic feet of expandable space available, once you fold down the second and third row of seats.
Powering our T5 Momentum tester is a 250-horsepower 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine. This engine is mated to an 8-speed transmission driving only the front wheels. An all-wheel drive system is available with this engine. Our tester’s driveline delivered smooth and strong power that defies the vehicle’s 4,387 pounds. Acceleration was superb overall.
For fuel economy, we were unable to get an average in our brief drive. The Environment Protection Agency rates the XC90 T5 with front-drive at 21 MPG in the city, 30 MPG on the highway.
While this T5 engine works very well with the XC90, there are two other performance levels to choose from. The T6 adds a supercharger on top of the T5 engine, while the T8 adds a plug-in electric motor and battery pack on top of the T6 engine. All three of these engines do a great job propelling the XC90 with ease.
Overall, we found the suspension working hard to absorb everything in its way to make the ride very smooth and enjoyable over long stretches. It handles very well, but there is some lean and roll over its limits. In Dynamic, cornering is superb with its lowered drive height and concentrated dampening.
Steering the XC90 might not induce the tightest turning radius in its class, but it is very maneuverable. The steering action is excellent, just the right amount of effort for the job. On-center feel is good. We also found the brakes to be superb with great stopping power and sure response in both normal and panic modes.
Pricing for the 2022 Volvo XC90 starts from $49,900 and is available in Momentum and Inscription trim levels. It is also available with three different drivelines, including a plug-in hybrid. Our Momentum T5 front-drive tester came with a sticker price of $54,550.
The XC90 remains a favorite amongst its loyal customers. However, it has plenty of competition that keeps it in the game. Its rivals include the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Jaguar F-Pace, Lexus RX L, Infiniti QX60, Genesis GV80, Cadillac XT6, and Lincoln Aviator.
Even though it has been around for a few years, the Volvo XC90 remains one of the winners in the luxury SUV market. It offers Swedish design and safety technology in a very practical package.
Story Credits: CarSoup Editors
