The old Volvo XC90 wasn’t a screamer through the bends, and this relaxed nature also defines the all-new car that replaces it. Tested in Spain by AutoExpress, its supreme cruising ability shone through, as well as the multitude of touches that Volvo has given it to make it a tempting buy in a crowded sector.
The XC90 tries to offer something different to the big three-row SUV norm. There’s absolutely no emphasis on sportiness in the regular versions (although it will be breathed upon by Polestar), but it’s still planted and surefooted enough to inspire confidence – that’s what you want in a big family car anyway.
Its strong points are the hushed interior, compliant ride, large third row seats and its air of modern minimalism. There’s that big central touchscreen display that’s now a portrait ration instead of landscape – this is reportedly more comfortable to use than portrait.
In fact, with screens as big as this one (and of course Tesla’s), portrait is really the only way to go as otherwise the driver would be stretching his or her hand all the way to the passenger’s side of the dash and that would be awkward – this orientation allows for easy access to a big screen.