Review Volvo V90:In today’s automotive market, dominated by crossovers, station wagons like the Volvo V90 offer a unique blend of exclusivity and practicality. This vehicle combines the utility of an SUV with a distinct flair, making it an ideal choice for those seeking something different. The Volvo V90‘s design is so elegant that it would not be out of place in a high-end architectural magazine. Its interior is luxuriously designed and visually appealing. It drives with the comfort of a luxury sedan, can navigate off-road terrains, and has comparable space to many midsize crossovers. Despite its attributes, Volvo sold less than 900 units last year.
The regular V90 models are no longer available in the U.S., with only the V90 Cross Country remaining. This model has received significant upgrades, including a new B6 2.0-liter engine with an integrated mild-hybrid system, replacing the old T6 engine. This new engine offers slightly lower power but increased torque and improved fuel efficiency with minimal performance loss. Additionally, Volvo has significantly upgraded the infotainment system with a new Android-based operating system.
Volvo’s decision to apply the Cross Country design to its wagons, which feature increased ground clearance, all-wheel drive, and a robust body kit, dates back to 1998, inspired by the Subaru Outback. This concept has since become widespread in the more significant wagon segment. While performance wagons like the Audi RS6 Avant exist, the V90’s primary competitors are the Subaru Outback, Audi A6 Allroad, and Mercedes-Benz E450 All-Terrain. The Volvo sits in a sweet spot regarding pricing, positioned between the more affordable Subaru and the luxurious German models without compromising luxury.
From the driver’s seat, the V90’s expansive hood might give the illusion of a larger vehicle, but it’s surprisingly agile for a 4,200-pound station wagon. It handles twisty roads well, quickly absorbs bumps, and accelerates to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds. While Subaru’s Outback boasts a more aggressive all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance, the V90 Cross Country is a competent vehicle for light adventures. Furthermore, the Volvo’s interior is notably more luxurious than the highest-end Outback model.
However, the V90 falls short in cargo space and backseat room compared to some competitors, particularly the Mercedes and the Subaru Outback, which are considered SUVs by Subaru. Despite this, the V90 excels in comfort and includes unique features such as integrated booster seats for children. While its cargo area may not rival the Outback’s, it does offer more space behind the rear seats than the XC60 or Lexus RX. The V90 also boasts an impressive appearance from every angle.
Volvo leads in technology and safety, offering a comprehensive list of standard active-safety technologies and receiving high ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The new infotainment system is a significant improvement, being faster and more comprehensive, though it requires some time to get accustomed to. While the V90 is not the most affordable option, it stands out in a market flooded with crossovers, offering style without sacrificing practicality or capability.
Performance: Volvo V90
The Volvo V90 is now exclusively available as the AWD Cross Country version with a new engine. The B6 engine is a 2.0-liter, turbocharged and supercharged, coupled with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This engine, which it shares with the XC60 and other Volvo models, produces 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This is slightly less horsepower but more torque than last year’s V90 T6 Cross Country, which had a similar engine but lacked the hybrid system. The previous model’s eight-speed automatic transmission is still used.
The 2022 V90 prioritizes comfort and quietness, with little noticeable difference in speed from the previous year. It may not match the agility or speed of competitors like the Audi A6 Allroad or Mercedes E450 All-Terrain. However, it is still capable, handling curves well and accelerating to 60 mph in the mid-six-second range quietly and effortlessly.
The V90 Cross Country lives up to its name, demonstrating impressive off-road capabilities during testing on rough terrain and an off-road course. It performs comparably to the Subaru Outback, though not quite at the level of the Outback’s Wilderness version. While it might not be the most aggressive off-road wagon, it’s still suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fuel Economy: Volvo V90
The V90 Cross Country’s fuel economy is average for its class, but the new powertrain improves efficiency. The B6 engine allows it to achieve 22 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined. This is an improvement in city and combined fuel economy compared to last year, though it drops slightly on the road. Its fuel efficiency is comparable to the Subaru Outback XT and better than the Audi A6 Allroad and Mercedes-Benz E450 All-Terrain, outperforming the less efficient high-performance wagons.
Safety & Driver Assistance Tech:
The IIHS has awarded the V90 a Top Safety Pick+ rating, though the NHTSA hasn’t evaluated it yet. Its platform mates, including the V60, XC60, and XC90, have received five-star ratings from the NHTSA. Standard safety features in the V90 include Volvo’s IntelliSafe suite, which offers adaptive cruise control with lane centering, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and traffic sign recognition. These features are standard, unlike in some other brands (though Subaru is an exception), and are highly effective. Volvo’s adaptive cruise control is exceptionally smooth compared to other gas-powered vehicles.
Comfort & Space: Volvo V90
The V90 comfortably accommodates four large adults for extended periods, offering ample space in both rows. While its roof may feel low compared to SUVs, it does not compromise comfort. The car can easily fit two 6-foot-4 adults, one behind the other. Its supportive and soft seats are ideal for lengthy journeys, ensuring comfort without fatigue.
Compared to its rivals, such as the Outback, the V90’s rear legroom is slightly less on paper, with 35.9 inches against the Subaru’s 39.5 and the Mercedes’ 36.1 inches. This difference is noticeable when switching from the Subaru to the Volvo but doesn’t significantly impact the real-world experience. The rear door openings of the V90 are not the largest, but they accommodate car seats well, and the car includes integrated child boosters in the rear seats.
Infotainment: Volvo V90
The V90 underwent a significant update to its infotainment system in 2022. The interior features a familiar 12.3-inch digital cluster and a 9-inch portrait-style center screen. However, the central screen now runs on a new Android-based operating system, similar to other recent Volvo models, with extensive Google integration and voice command capabilities through Google Assistant.
Although more complex, this new system is more responsive, primarily upon startup. It continues to offer standard features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and in-car Wi-Fi.
Cargo Capacity & Storage:
Although its lower roofline slightly reduces cargo space compared to its competitors, the V90 remains spacious. It offers 19.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 53.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, less than the Outback and E450 but still substantial. The V90’s cargo area is more significant than that of the XC60 and almost matches the Lexus RX midsize crossover in total capacity.
Design: Volvo V90
The V90’s design is universally appealing, featuring long, low, and vast proportions. Its modern Volvo design elements create a sleek and attractive appearance, enhanced by stylish wheels and LED lighting. The car’s overall look remains unaffected by features like fender flares.
The interior matches the exterior in elegance, showcasing meticulous detailing and premium materials in various colors. Despite being less expensive than competitors like the E450 All-Terrain or A6 AllRoad, the V90’s interior does not compromise luxury or quality.
Is the 2022 Volvo V90 Worth it?
Since the standard V90 models are no longer available, the only option is the $57,295 B6 Cross Country version. This model is significantly pricier than the top-tier Subaru Outback Touring XT by nearly $16,000 but more affordable than the Audi A6 Allroad and Mercedes-Benz E450 All Terrain by $10,000 and $12,000, respectively.
The V90 B6 Cross Country starts with rich features, including genuine leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, 19-inch alloy wheels, and comprehensive safety features. Although it’s not the most economical option, it offers luxury and equipment that aligns more closely with its German counterparts than the Subaru, making it a relatively good deal.
Optional upgrades include the $2,800 Lounge package, which brings enhanced climate control, a passenger memory seat, Nappa leather, massage seats, sun shades, and premium dashboard materials. A $1,200 Four-C adaptive air suspension and $950 scuff plates are also available. While these are not essential, they do add a touch of luxury. Larger 20- and 21-inch wheels are also an option, but they may affect the ride quality, mainly off-road.
Cost of Insuring the Volvo V90 Cross-Country
Insurance costs for the V90 are lower than those of its German competitors but higher than those of the Subaru Outback. On average, a 30-year-old female driver with a clean driving record might pay around $2,600 annually for the V90. In contrast, the Audi A6 Allroad and Mercedes E450 All-Terrain have higher premiums at $2,982 and $2,854, respectively, while the Subaru Outback sits at $1,690.
Verdict
The Volvo V90, a rarity among wagons, offers a unique appeal. As the latest iteration of Volvo’s luxurious and spacious wagons, the V90 combines the practicality of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a luxury sedan, all wrapped in a stylish design. Available only in the Cross Country variant, it boasts impressive off-road capability and a level of luxury surpassing the Outback. While it may offer less space than the Mercedes or Subaru, and its price can rise with options, it remains a more economical choice than its German counterparts, standing out distinctively in its segment.
