Volvo XC90: the updated "Swedish fighter" (TEST)

A facelift for a proven "fighter" - Volvo has smoothed out the new XC90 and equipped it with more technology and even more comfort. We tested the T8 version with a Plug-in hybrid drive with 455 hp magazin de piese auto online.

Volvo XC90: the updated "Swedish fighter" (TEST)

The Swedes have recently launched a large number of electric cars – we only mention the EX30 and EX90, but this does not mean that they have neglected their existing range of models with internal combustion engines. After all, they are the ones that bring the money. For example, the XC90: it has been on the market with minor changes for almost ten years, but it still sells extremely well. However, the Swedes' designers decided that they should not let the model exist in this form forever and have updated the appearance of the "Swedish fighter". And successfully – offered as a plug-in hybrid or with a gasoline engine, the XC90 is close in appearance to the current electric models of the brand.

With a new radiator grille, a slightly raised bonnet and narrow LED headlights illuminating the road with matrix lights, the large SUV looks refreshed and more modern from the front. The rear has also been discreetly revised, with filigree taillights and black applications. In addition, new wheels up to 22 inches in size and new body colours are available.

Inside, the car has also become more modern, but not quite as businesslike as the electric models. The dashboard is horizontally oriented and filled with noble materials such as light wood. In addition, there is more space on the impressive center console between the seats, the socket for wireless smartphone charging has moved forward in front of the transmission switch. This makes the spacious interior not only look more chic, but also more practically organized. Much more important is the upgrade of the Android-based infotainment system of Volvo's large SUV. For example, updates are now done over the air, and the system combines a 31 cm diagonal monitor, digital instruments and a Head-up display. It doesn't take us long to find that the new system is operated more logically and intuitively. At the bottom of the monitor there is a menu bar with direct access to the start screen and important applications for the car. The interior has USB-C ports front and rear, and the Swedish SUV also comes with a high-quality Bowers & Wilkins audio system. It's nice that the large volume rocker isn't spared.

During the journey in this Volvo you will feel comfortable, safe and spacious (the model is available with seven seats as standard). Behind the thick acoustic glass you will enjoy peace and quiet and you will observe the outside world through the large windows. However, when parking you can also rely on the parking assistant and the reversing camera. Overall, you will move confidently, thanks to the combination of the powerful 2-liter engine and the 8-speed automatic transmission. And of course the all-wheel drive.

With the facelift, Volvo is getting rid of the customer-favorite diesel engine, which will definitely not please fans, because although the technically revised 250 hp B5 gasoline engine is more economical than its predecessor, it still consumes an average of 9 l/100 km - the weight of 2 tons requires sacrifices. The alternative is a Plug-in hybrid, featuring a 455 hp combination of a gasoline engine, an electric motor and a battery with a capacity of almost 19 kWh. According to the manufacturer, its purely electric range is 71 km.

CONCLUSION

The big Volvo embodies the brand's DNA – comfort, safety and space utilization. The Volvo XC90 is a representative car and drives like one. Despite the seemingly small 2-liter engine, the "Swede" drives with dignity and confidence. The comfort is impressive, and the suspension and noise insulation are convincing.

TECHNICAL DATA: VOLVO XC90 T8 PLUG-IN-HYBRID

engine 4-cyl. turbo/compressor + electric motor displacement 1969 cm3 • system power 335 kW (455 hp) max. torque 709 nm drive dual/8-speed automatic transmission • l/w/h 4953/1931–2140/1767 mm • curb weight 2297 kg towed load 2400 kg trunk volume (262**)640-1856 l 0–100 km/h 5.4 sec maximum speed 180 km/h tank/battery 70 l/19 kWh electric range 71 km consumption (wltp) 1.2 l a95n + 19.5 kWh/100 km CO2 30 g/km Price from 180,100 BGN.

Car parts AutoPower
Car parts AutoPower

The Swedes have recently launched a large number of electric cars – we only mention the EX30 and EX90, but this does not mean that they have neglected their existing range of models with internal combustion engines

With a new radiator grille, a slightly raised bonnet and narrow LED headlights illuminating the road with matrix lights, the large SUV looks refreshed and more modern from the front