First drive in the Volvo EX90: E-SUV with a voltage deficit
Two years after its launch, the Volvo EX90 is now actually on the market. It's a success, but one decision could still have its revenge.
(Image: Volvo)
- Martin Franz
- Stefan Grundhoff
Volvo has really taken its time: The EX90 was first shown in November 2022, the Swedes announced the start of series production in June 2024, and now the first deliveries are finally set to begin. The large E-SUV is aimed at prospective customers who are looking for an upmarket vehicle. The clientele is demanding. A first short drive should clarify whether the Volvo EX90 can do justice to this.
Not dainty
One thing the EX90 is undoubtedly not is petite. The E-SUV measures 5.04 m in length and 1.96 m in width. Even the base model weighs just under 2.6 tons empty, and the top model, which we were able to drive a few kilometers in, weighs around 2.8 tons. The amount of material alone is therefore gigantic. Customers can choose whether they want the SUV as a five-, six- or seven-seater, although not all configurations are offered with all engines. Even tall people have plenty of space in the first two rows of seats, while the third row is a little more cramped.
The design of the dashboard has nothing in common with the rather bulky design of the XC90. Instead, the landscape in front of the driver appears very streamlined. A small instrument cluster display provides only the most necessary information. Almost all functions are operated via the large screen or by voice command. This takes some getting used to, even though the voice control made a decent impression overall during our outing. As in other models of the brand, Android Automotive OS serves as the basis. The decision not to go its own way in this respect was the right one.
Comfortable and high-quality
The very comfortable seats and high-quality materials are typical of Volvo. The fact that the seats are no longer available with leather upholstery is not a problem. In addition, the EX90 pampers the ears in two ways: on the one hand, the sound insulation is excellent, and on the other, the optional sound system from Bowers & Wilkins is outstanding. With these ingredients, Volvo has done a lot to make your stay in this expensive car a pleasant one. Volvo has opted for a firm suspension set-up, which nevertheless responds sensitively and skillfully filters out small bumps. This is a clear improvement on the XC90.
Huge memory
Volvo is offering the EX90 in three different drive configurations at launch. The base model with rear-wheel drive has only one engine. It delivers 205 kW and is supplied with power by a battery with 101 kWh (net). The two all-wheel drive models with 300 and 380 kW have a battery with a usable 107 kWh. The DC charging power should be a maximum of 250 kW. Volvo relies on a 400-volt basis, which means that the charging station should supply 625 amps. This is not the case everywhere; in many places the limit is 500 A. It is also a shame that there is no option for a 22 kW AC charger, at least for the time being. Volvo is sticking with 11 kW here. The maximum range in the WLTP is up to 614 km. Volvo states 20.8 to 22 kWh in the WLTP.
The top model was available to us for this first short drive. As expected, the EX90 gets off to a confident start and accelerates powerfully. The surcharge compared to the model with 300 kW is 5000 euros, which is unlikely to be the deciding factor in this price range. However, the most powerful version slips over the 95,000 euro mark. This means that private use of a company car is no longer taxable at 0.25 percent of the list price, but at one percent.
(Image: Volvo)
Volvo offers three equipment lines. The basic model costs 83,700 euros, while the top-of-the-range model costs around 24,000 euros more at 107,400 euros. There are hardly any optional extras, and the few that Volvo does offer are quite expensive. The parking and lane departure warning system together cost 2400 euros, the air suspension 2700 euros. The fine sound system is not available for the base model and costs 3050 euros.
Conclusion
With the EX90, Volvo has added a fine E-SUV to its range. It has a clean finish, is very quiet and accelerates fiercely when required, especially with the 380 kW drive. As with the competition, this is offset by enormous material costs. What's more, Volvo sees itself as a premium brand and calculates accordingly. The decision to leave it at a 400-volt voltage level could also pay off. This could potentially put Volvo disadvantaged compared to the competition.
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(mfz)