Video Review
Volvo's transition to an all-electric lineup takes a significant step forward with the introduction of the new flagship SUV, the EX90. This signals the dawn of a new era for Volvo's vehicles, highlighting the pinnacle of current safety and sustainability technology and indicating the company's future trajectory. But the question remains: does it justify its price tag?
Performance
The available powertrain features Twin Motor All-Wheel Drive, offering two output options. Standard models deliver 402bhp, while 'Performance' variants boost that to 510bhp. This propulsion architecture is newly introduced and is expected to be shared with the recently unveiled Polestar 3. According to Volvo, the Twin Motor model is anticipated to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, while the Twin Motor Performance variant should achieve this in 4.9 seconds.
Range and Charging
Onboard is a 111-kWh battery pack that Volvo says should deliver around 600 km per charge for the Twin Motor model.
The battery can be charged at 250kW, allowing for a 10-80% charge in about half an hour. Since you'll likely utilise various public chargers, the brand has developed a multi-high-speed charging system, facilitating seamless switching between 800-volt and 400-volt outputs.
Volvo assures that its app will provide owners with access to an array of services, including access to public charging stations and intelligent home charging management. The latter will assist owners with a home ‘powerbox’ connected to both the car and rooftop solar panels. Additionally, the EX90 will facilitate plug-in charging for public charging points, automatically initiating the charging process and handling payments when connected to a compatible charger.
Design and Interior
As anticipated, the EX90 incorporates well-known Volvo EV design elements but on a larger and more refined scale. Up front, you'll notice the iconic Thor’s Hammer headlight design framing the grille-less front end. At the rear, there are prominent C-shaped taillights, accompanied by additional lighting near the rear window. The overall look is sleek, minimalist, and exceptionally contemporary.
Inside, the Scandinavian minimalist design continues, featuring a prominent 14.5-inch portrait-orientated touchscreen at the dashboard’s centre and minimal physical buttons. You’ll find a host of integrated Google features, and your phone will serve as a key for unlocking and starting the car.
As cool as all of that is, what really stands out is the practicality. The EX90 is one of few EVs on the market with 7 seats, and even with all of these in use, you’ll still have 310 litres of boot space. However, fold away the third row and you’ll get a generous 650 litres, making it ideal for family getaways or doing the weekly shop.
Cost Considerations
Upon its launch, the Volvo EX90 is available in one high-specification trim called Ultra. Boasting 22-inch alloy wheels, a four-zone climate system, active air suspension, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, panoramic roof, and an extensive suite of safety options. Which, all sounds pretty impressive, but will come at a price point of €117,910, along with an additional €5,000 if you opt for the Twin Motor Performance powertrain.
To help with the big price tag, Volvo offers a well-rounded warranty package on its new cars, including an extended battery warranty valid for eight years or 160,000km. During the warranty, they’ll guarantee 70% state-of-health, meaning a high level of performance for your EV is guaranteed.
Conclusion
The EX90 stands as a spacious full-battery EV Crossover, signalling Volvo's stride into a new era, we can only hope the company will be just as good at doing that at more affordable price points than this: the EX90's near six-figure asking price will put it out of reach of the mainstream market. Nonetheless, for those seeking a seven-seater full-EV without resorting to a People Carrier, your options are scarce. In this Volvo, they'll find that unique selling point packaged up in a very complete package.