The Volvo 90-Series offers two main variations. The S90 sedan, comparable to the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and the V90 Cross Country wagon, rivaling the Audi A6 allroad and Mercedes-Benz E450 All Terrain. These cars, whether in sedan or wagon form, boast a blend of elegance, luxury, style, and performance. While the special-order V90 wagon from last year has been discontinued, the V90 Cross Country retains its popularity and remains available for purchase.
Volvo has made significant adjustments to the 90-Series lineup this year. The base turbocharged engine has been replaced by a new mild-hybrid version of the turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter inline-4, known as B6. This change has resulted in a slight improvement in fuel efficiency, achieving around 25 to 26 mpg combined. These modifications mark a significant step towards Volvo’s vision of a fully electric future for its largest V90 wagon.
The Volvo V90 models catch the eye with their understated, sleek design. Despite their classic appearance, these vehicles exude a timeless allure with meticulous attention to detail. The V90, slightly shorter than the S90, benefits from its stylish wagon profile accentuated by off-road elements.
Although not focused primarily on performance, these Volvos offer a comfortable and capable driving experience. The new version of Volvo’s turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine powers the Volvo V90, delivering 295 hp coupled with a 48-volt starter-generator. Despite a slight decrease in power compared to the previous year’s model, torque and fuel efficiency have improved. The new powertrain ensures smoother operation, making acceleration and transitions between power sources seamless. The upgraded engine feels more responsive and accelerates more briskly, thanks to the integration of the starter-generator and nearly imperceptible stop/start functionality.
The V90 delivers a comfortable ride with its base suspension and an even more refined experience with the optional air suspension setup. Although the handling is commendable, it does not match the agility of its German counterparts around corners. Emphasizing comfort and control, the V90 Cross Country wagons, with 8.3 inches of ground clearance, cater to drivers navigating snowy terrains or occasional dirt roads without transitioning to an SUV. Equipped with all-wheel drive as standard across the lineup, the large Volvo excels in acceleration, ride comfort, and road isolation.
The Volvo V90 displays impressive fuel efficiency for a wagon. The V90 Cross Country, with its elevated stance, achieves a rating of 22/29/25 mpg. The 2022 Volvo S90, while a safe option, demands scrutiny due to a few qualifications that complicate its comparison with other sedans. Both the S90 and V90 models have been recognized as Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS for their stellar safety performance, albeit falling slightly short in the headlight category. The NHTSA is yet to evaluate the latest Volvo models, but their previous ratings are expected to remain unchanged. Standard safety features are comprehensive, encompassing adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, active lane control, and Pilot Assist for limited hands-free driving. An optional surround-view camera system enhances visibility, already excellent in these vehicles.
The interiors of Volvo V90 exude sophistication through meticulous craftsmanship, premium materials, and a minimalist design featuring just the right amount of controls. Luxurious yet understated, the Volvo V90 offers a sublime luxury wagon experience. Boasting spacious and well-appointed interiors, the Volvo V90 leaves ample room for passengers. Light-colored interiors create a serene ambiance, although darker hues can potentially feel a bit confined.
Both the standard and optional front seats provide excellent support, with the option for massaging functionality. The rear seating area is accommodating, and despite the slightly low roofline, the Volvo V90 feels roomy and airy. Cargo space is generous, reaching an SUV-beating capacity of 54 cubic feet when the second row is folded down. Optional features include built-in rear child-seat boosters. The fit and finish of the test cars indicate superior quality, with a variety of leather and wood finishes available. While all options are enticing, there’s a subtle allure to the textile option found in other Volvo models that enthusiasts may long to see in the V90 Cross Country.
Despite a streamlined wagon selection this year, the Volvo V90 is well-equipped. Competing with similarly priced luxury vehicles, the 90-Series Volvo wagons offer a compelling value proposition by undercutting German rivals while delivering a range of luxuries such as advanced driver-assistance technology, large alloy wheels, leather upholstery, a respectable infotainment system, and a standard sunroof. Volvo provides a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty along with complimentary scheduled service for the initial 3 years/36,000 miles.
The V90 Cross Country is exclusively available in B6 trim, starting at around $59,545 for the Plus variant. Opting for the Ultimate trim level elevates the interior amenities to Inscription levels, featuring four-zone climate control, upgraded 20″ wheels, premium leather upholstery with ventilated front seats, a crystal gear knob, heads-up display, and a Harman/Kardon audio system. Optional packages offer additional features like a surround-view camera, heated rear seats and steering wheel, a top-notch Bowers & Wilkins audio system, massaging front seats, and air suspension. A fully loaded V90 with all the extras can total around $74,000.
Few vehicles can match the versatility and well-rounded performance of the Volvo V90 Cross Country. From its classic design and luxurious road manners to its efficient powertrains and capable off-road capabilities, the V90 Cross Country excels in all aspects. Combined with competitive pricing and top-tier safety ratings, the 2022 V90 Cross Country emerges as a definitive winner. Whether cruising on highways or venturing off-road, the Volvo V90 Cross Country adeptly fulfills all expectations with timeless efficiency.
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