New XC90 named ‘the ultimate family road trip machine’

For a few weeks in November, car critics from 36 countries joined us and our product experts in Skåne, Sweden. Here, they were given the chance to drive our new flagship hybrid SUV on a combination of highways, country roads and in urban areas. Judging by the reviews, we’re not the only ones who love the new XC90.

Not only did it land Esquire’s Family Car of the Year award for being “the ultimate family road trip machine”, the XC90 also won over the media with its driving dynamics, premium cabin and refreshed, sophisticated design. In addition, the new infotainment system impressed with its bigger screen and intuitive user experience.

Let’s have a look at some of the comments:

• UK-based Auto Express claims the popular plug-in hybrid to be “better than ever” and that it has excellent driving capabilities. They think that “the XC90’s cabin remains a simply lovely place to spend time, and in its own way it feels different to its German rivals”.


• Their compatriots at Autocar say that the improvements from the previous XC90 "are well judged – especially the infotainment and passive suspension set-up – and it’s still, as ever, a supreme product,” and they conclude that “the XC90 is still the SUV of choice for the family car buyer with a minimalist design ethos".


• Also in the UK, Car writes that “the XC90 still delivers in being devastatingly fast and handsome. The T8’s potential for both lunging bouts of acceleration and silent electric running is hugely attractive. Much like the car itself.”


• Across the sea, American Car and Driver writes that “Volvo’s three-row crossover is a beautifully dressed, compelling mid-size luxury SUV with unmistakable curb appeal”. Specifically, they highlight that “fine materials enrich the XC90's designer interior, including beautiful open-pore wood trim, soft leather, and tasteful brightwork”.


• Also in the US, Motor Trend states that “[The new] XC90 should definitely be considered by anyone who wants a sensibly sized three-row luxury SUV.”


• In Germany, N-TV thinks that “the architecture looks really chic with fine wood inlays, high-quality seats, and generally solid build quality. Volvo is definitely a premium brand, no doubt about that.”


• Marca in Spain praises the integrated Google services: “…especially valuable for the maps and the voice assistant - and, above all, it has a much simpler and more intuitive layout of menus and widgets than the previous [XC90]. The graphical presentation is also much better."


• Italian Gazetta writes: “The reliability and precision of Volvo's assisted driving system appeared superior to the level offered by much of the competition.”


• The MenWith Journal writes: “With the T8, Volvo has proven once again that sustainability and sophistication go hand in hand. If you’re looking for a car that’s equal parts performance, elegance, and conscience, the XC90 T8 is ready to redefine your expectations.”