New Volvo XC90 India review, test drive

The XC90 is Volvo’s new full-sized seven seater luxury SUV. An all-new version of what was once a bestseller for the brand globally, this new XC90 is also the first car off its new Scalable Platform Architecture (SPA) and the first since the takeover by the Chinese company Geely. This new SPA platform uses a high content of hot-formed Boron steel which is stronger and lighter than other forms of steel. At 2,171kg, the SUV is lighter than its rivals.

Its styling is unmistakably Volvo; there is very little visual drama, and the XC90 looks like it has been carved out of a single big block. But this is not to say that the styling is bland, there are elements like the large grille with vertical slats that stand out, the new Iron Mark badge is larger and the ‘Thor’s Hammer’ LED daytime running lights, yes that’s what Volvo calls it, give it plenty of presence. The 20-inch alloy wheels offset the bulk of the SUV neatly and the traditionally stacked tail-lamps, now shaped like an inverted question mark, lend the otherwise sedate rear some character.

Step inside and you see the judicious use of unveneered wood, leather and the uncluttered dashboard looks super impressive. The dash is designed in waves and looks just brilliant with deftly places bits of chrome. The infotainment system with the large nine-inch touchscreen has clear fonts and sharp graphics making it great to use – there are swipe and pinch functions just like on a smartphone! The luxury feel is further enhanced by the 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system that provides incredibly detailed and clear sound; one of the best systems we’ve experienced in a car, so far. There are certain areas like the sides of the centre console that could have been finished better, and there are no paddles for the gearbox, but the cabin is well made on the whole.