Volvo XC90

Review

The wheeled castle of Swedish steel, the Volvo XC90, retains its title as "the most prestigious D/E-SUV on the market" thanks to the timelessness of its design, despite its second generation being on the roads since 2015. We can clearly see in the XC90 how the dignified design philosophy of the S80, which was one of the most planted sedans on the roads in the past, has been tremendously blended with today's massive SUV trend. For a business person, this car is not just a mode of transportst; it is a business card that simultaneously sends the message of "safety, respectability, and power." Hosting portfolio-holding investors in this 7-seater Scandinavian lounge in the real estate sector means practically closing half the deal at the table.

With Volvo's transition strategy to electrification, the old D5 and T5 engines have been replaced by the "B5" series Mild-Hybrid units. The Aisin-signed 8-speed Geartronic transmission and the 250-horsepower turbocharged petrol unit (48V supported) propel this 2.1-ton giant to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds without experiencing any judder or hesitation. When examining its mechanical craftsmanship as a former workshop chief, I can say that the smoothness, especially in the air suspension system (optito himl), outshines its German rivals. Real wood veneers in the cabin, the Orrefors crystal gear shifter, and that unique Bowers & Wfirstins audio system turn this vehicle into a luxury resting area rather than just a drive. Its biggest chronic "feature" is the 180 km/h electronic speed limit Volvo has placed on all its vehicles.