The Volvo XC90 is a mid-size luxury SUV that has been in production since 2002. It is one of the most popular and acclaimed models from the Swedish automaker, known for its elegant design, spacious interior, advanced safety features, and versatile powertrain options. In this essay, I will provide an overview of the XC90’s history, specifications, performance, and reviews.
History
The first generation of the XC90 was launched in 2002, as Volvo’s first entry into the SUV market. It was based on the Volvo P2 platform, which also underpinned the S80 sedan and the V70 wagon. The XC90 offered a choice of five or seven seats, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and various engines, including a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-five, a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six, and a 4.4-liter V8. The XC90 was well received by critics and customers alike, winning several awards such as the North American Car of the Year in 2003 and the Motor Trend SUV of the Year in 2003 and 2006. The XC90 also earned a reputation for being one of the safest vehicles on the road, thanks to its high-strength steel structure, multiple airbags, and innovative technologies such as Roll Stability Control and Blind Spot Information System. The first generation XC90 underwent a facelift in 2007, with minor changes to the exterior, interior, and engine lineup.
The second generation of the XC90 was introduced in 2014, as a completely redesigned model. It was the first Volvo to use the new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), which also supports other models such as the S90, the V90, and the XC60. The second generation XC90 featured a more modern and refined design, with a prominent grille, LED headlights, and a sleeker profile. The interior was also upgraded, with a minimalist dashboard, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and high-quality materials. The second generation XC90 also offered a range of new powertrain options, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged inline-four, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, and a plug-in hybrid variant called the T8, which combined the 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged engine with an electric motor. The second generation XC90 continued to impress with its safety features, adding new systems such as City Safety, Run-off Road Protection, and Pilot Assist. The second generation XC90 received many accolades, such as the World Car of the Year in 2016 and the Auto Express Car of the Year in 2015 and 2016. The second generation XC90 was updated in 2019, with minor cosmetic and technical changes.
Specifications
The 2024 Volvo XC90 is the latest model year of the second generation XC90. It is available in three trim levels: Core, Plus, and Ultimate. It also offers three powertrain options: the B5, the B6, and the Recharge. The B5 is a mild hybrid that uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that produces 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The B6 is another mild hybrid that uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged inline-four engine that delivers 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The Recharge is a plug-in hybrid that combines the 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged engine with an electric motor that generates 385 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. All versions are equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The B5 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, the B6 in 6.7 seconds, and the Recharge in 5.4 seconds. The B5 has a fuel economy rating of 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, the B6 has 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, and the Recharge has 188 mpg equivalent in combined driving and an electric range of 36 miles.
The 2024 Volvo XC90 has a length of 195 inches, a width of 79.1 inches, a height of 69.9 inches, and a wheelbase of 117.5 inches. It has a curb weight of 4,627 pounds for the B5, 4,729 pounds for the B6, and 5,105 pounds for the Recharge. It has a ground clearance of 9.4 inches and a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. It has a cargo volume of 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 41.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and 85.7 cubic feet behind the first row. It has a seating capacity of seven passengers, or six if the second-row captain’s chairs are chosen.
The 2024 Volvo XC90 comes with a variety of standard and optional features, depending on the trim level. Some of the standard features include LED headlights and taillights, 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 10-speaker sound system, a wireless charging pad, a Wi-Fi hotspot, four-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry and start, a power tailgate, and a rearview camera. Some of the optional features include 20-inch or 22-inch alloy wheels, a head-up display, ventilated and massaging front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a 14-speaker or 19-speaker sound system, a rear-seat entertainment system, a 360-degree camera, a park assist system, and a hands-free tailgate.
The 2024 Volvo XC90 also comes with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features, as part of the standard Pilot Assist system. Some of these features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, road sign recognition, driver attention monitor, and automatic high beams. Some of the optional features include rear-collision warning, rear automatic braking, and a semi-autonomous driving mode.
Performance
The 2024 Volvo XC90 offers a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension, precise steering, and strong brakes. It also handles well, with minimal body roll and good grip. The XC90 is not a sporty SUV, but it is agile and responsive enough for most drivers. The XC90 is also quiet and refined, with little wind or road noise entering the cabin. The XC90’s powertrain options are adequate for most situations, but they are not very exciting or engaging. The B5 and B6 engines are smooth and efficient, but they lack the punch and character of some rivals. The Recharge engine is more powerful and quicker, but it is also heavier and more complex. The Recharge also suffers from some lag and inconsistency in its power delivery, due to the switching between the gas and electric modes. The transmission is smooth and smart, but it can be slow to downshift at times. The XC90’s plug-in hybrid system allows for some electric-only driving, which can save fuel and reduce emissions, but it also requires frequent charging and reduces the cargo space.
Reviews
The 2024 Volvo XC90 has received mostly positive reviews from critics and customers. Here are some excerpts from different sources:
Car and Driver: "Despite its age, the Volvo XC90 continues to impress with its attractive design, high-quality insides, and versatile interior."Ad1
Top Gear: "The best family SUV out there. Which, given the usage of most modern SUVs, makes this the pick of the bunch."2
What Car?: "The Volvo XC90 is one of the best large SUVs, combining a high-quality, spacious and versatile interior with plenty of kit and good driving manners."3
Conclusion
The Volvo XC90 is a great choice for anyone looking for a mid-size luxury SUV that offers style, space, safety, and versatility. It is a well-rounded and refined vehicle that can accommodate up to seven passengers and their luggage, while providing a smooth and comfortable ride. It also has a range of powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid that can save fuel and lower emissions. The XC90 is not a cheap or exciting SUV, but it is a reliable and elegant one that can satisfy most needs and preferences. The XC90 is a testament to Volvo’s reputation for making quality and innovative vehicles that stand the test of time.
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