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The Volvo XC90’s effortless cruising ability is captured in a blur of vibrant color and motion, reflecting the SUV’s smooth performance on a 3000-mile road trip.Piedmont Today
Embarking on a 3,000-mile journey in a plug-in hybrid Volvo XC90, the author discovers the SUV’s strengths and weaknesses as a long-distance ‘wafter’ – a vehicle that glides smoothly and offers an unparalleled driving experience. From navigating the twists and turns of a Piedmontese hillside to tackling the Great St. Bernard Pass, the XC90 proves its mettle, though the author notes room for improvement in ride quality and fuel efficiency.
Why it matters
The Volvo XC90’s performance on this extensive road trip highlights the brand’s design prowess and the vehicle’s enduring appeal, even as newer models like the Volvo ES90 raise the bar for luxury and refinement. This real-world test provides valuable insights for consumers considering the XC90 as a long-distance cruiser.
The details
The author’s 3,000-mile journey took him from Anglesey, Wales to Amalfi, Italy, with stops along the way to test the XC90’s capabilities. The SUV’s smooth ride and spacious cargo area made it an ideal support vehicle during a Maserati test at Anglesey Circuit. On the way to the Volvo ES90 launch in Monaco, the author encountered a nostalgic sight – an old Volvo 240 Estate from the late 1980s. The XC90’s timeless design and raw power were evident as the author navigated the twists and turns of Piedmontese hills, easily leaving a Fiat Panda in its wake. However, the author noted that the XC90’s ride quality suffered on potholes and expansion joints, especially with the 21-inch wheels, and the fuel economy was not as impressive as expected for a 2.3-tonne SUV.
The journey took place over 13 days, covering an average of 230 miles per day.The author made a brief stop to see an old Volvo 240 Estate from the late 1980s while en route to the Volvo ES90 launch in Monaco.
The players
Volvo XC90
A plug-in hybrid SUV known for its timeless design, effortless cruising capabilities, and raw power, though with room for improvement in ride quality and fuel efficiency.
Volvo ES90
A newer Volvo model that raises the bar for luxury and refinement, offering an even more luxurious seating experience and sublime ride quality compared to the XC90.
Fiat Panda
A small city car that was easily left behind by the powerful Volvo XC90 on the twisting Piedmontese hills.
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What they’re saying
“Sometimes, you need a car that’s more than just a means of transportation; you need a wafter – a vehicle that glides smoothly, offering an unparalleled driving experience.”
— The author
“It was a nostalgic moment, as I had grown up in the back of one of those sturdy Volvo 240 Estate wagons.”
— The author
What’s next
The author’s review of the Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid will be followed by a more in-depth comparison between the XC90 and the newer Volvo ES90 model, exploring the trade-offs between the two SUVs and their respective strengths.
The takeaway
The Volvo XC90’s performance on this extensive road trip demonstrates the enduring appeal of the iconic SUV, even as newer models raise the bar for luxury and refinement. While the XC90 may show its age in certain areas, its timeless design, smooth ride, and raw power make it a compelling choice for long-distance cruising, especially for those who value the journey as much as the destination.
