Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 is a flagship luxury SUV that has made a name for itself globally, especially for its unparalleled safety and sophisticated Scandinavian design. For Indian families looking for a premium, spacious, and safe vehicle, the XC90 often stands out as a top contender. Let's explore what makes this SUV a truly special offering in the Indian market.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

In India, the Volvo XC90 is primarily offered with a mild-hybrid petrol engine. This setup combines traditional power with modern efficiency.

• Engine Type: 2.0-litre Turbocharged Petrol with Mild-Hybrid System (B6)
• Max Power: Around 300 hp
• Max Torque: Around 420 Nm
• Transmission: 8-speed Automatic
• Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Design Overview

The XC90's design is a perfect example of Volvo's 'less is more' philosophy, focusing on elegance, simplicity, and functionality.

Exterior

The XC90 boasts a commanding road presence with its signature 'Thor's Hammer' LED headlights and a prominent grille featuring the iconic Volvo iron mark. The clean lines, sculpted sides, and subtle chrome accents give it a sophisticated and timeless appeal. It's a design that doesn't shout for attention but effortlessly commands respect.

Interior

Step inside, and you are greeted by a cabin that feels like a Swedish sanctuary. The interior is minimalistic yet incredibly luxurious, using high-quality materials like Nappa leather, open-pore wood, and crystal accents (from Orrefors). The large portrait-oriented infotainment screen dominates the center console, reducing button clutter. The seats are exceptionally comfortable, designed for long journeys, and the overall ambiance is one of calm and elegance.

Key Features

The XC90 is packed with features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and connectivity.

• Large 9-inch Portrait-Style Touchscreen Infotainment System (with Google built-in services)
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Panoramic Sunroof
• 360-degree Surround View Camera
• Wireless Smartphone Charging
• Four-zone Climate Control
• Premium Bowers & Wilkins Sound System (optional)
• Heated and Ventilated Front Seats
• Air Suspension (optional, offers adjustable ride height)
• Head-up Display

Ground Clearance

The Volvo XC90 offers a practical ground clearance, which is important for Indian roads and occasional rough patches.

• Ground Clearance: Approximately 238 mm (with air suspension, it can vary)

Boot Space

As a large SUV, the XC90 provides versatile boot space for all your luggage needs.

• Boot Space: Around 680 litres (with third row folded)
• Can expand significantly by folding down the second row.

Dimensions

Understanding the car's size helps you gauge its presence and parking convenience.

• Length: Approximately 4953 mm
• Width: Approximately 1931 mm (excluding mirrors)
• Height: Approximately 1776 mm
• Wheelbase: Approximately 2984 mm

Powertrain Options

Currently, the main powertrain option available for the Volvo XC90 in India is the B6 mild-hybrid petrol engine. While globally there are Plug-in Hybrid (Recharge T8) options, the B6 is the primary choice for Indian buyers, offering a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency for its segment.

Safety Features

Volvo and safety are almost synonymous. The XC90 is a testament to this commitment, loaded with active and passive safety systems.

• Multiple Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain)
• City Safety (Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian, cyclist, and large animal detection)
• Lane Keeping Aid
• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Pilot Assist (Semi-autonomous driving assistance)
• Road Sign Information
• Run-off Road Mitigation
• Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS)

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is a core value for Volvo, and the XC90 consistently performs exceptionally well in crash tests.

NCAP Body	Rating	Year
Euro NCAP	5 Stars	2015 (still applicable due to high initial standards and continuous updates)
Bharat NCAP	Not yet rated	N/A

The XC90's 5-star Euro NCAP rating reflects its robust build and comprehensive safety suite.

Rivals of Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 competes in the highly competitive luxury SUV segment in India. Its main rivals include:

• BMW X5
• Audi Q7
• Mercedes-Benz GLE
• Land Rover Discovery
• Lexus RX

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros

• Unmatched Safety: Volvo's reputation for safety is well-deserved, and the XC90 is a fortress on wheels with advanced ADAS features.
• Luxurious and Comfortable Cabin: The interior quality, comfort, and serene atmosphere are top-notch, ideal for long journeys.
• Elegant and Timeless Design: Both exterior and interior design are sophisticated and unlikely to age quickly.
• Refined Mild-Hybrid Engine: The B6 engine offers smooth performance with decent efficiency for its size.
• Good Features List: Packed with modern tech and convenience features that truly enhance the driving experience.
• Spacious for Five: While it's a 7-seater, the first two rows offer excellent space and comfort.

Cons

• Third Row Space: The last row is best suited for children or for short journeys for adults, not ideal for extended trips.
• Premium Pricing: As a luxury SUV, it comes with a significant price tag, which might be a barrier for some.
• Limited Engine Options: In India, the XC90 is primarily available with one petrol mild-hybrid engine, unlike some rivals that offer diesel or more powerful petrol variants.
• Ride Quality: While generally comfortable, without the optional air suspension, larger potholes might be felt a bit more.

Conclusion

The new Volvo XC90 is more than just a luxury SUV; it's a statement of sophistication, safety, and conscious luxury. If your priorities are top-tier safety for your family, a supremely comfortable and elegantly designed cabin, and a refined driving experience, the XC90 stands out. While it has a premium price and the third row isn't adult-friendly for long hauls, its advantages in safety, design, and interior quality make it a very compelling choice for discerning Indian car buyers. It truly offers a unique blend of Scandinavian luxury and robust engineering, making it an excellent long-term investment for your family's travel needs.