By Sala Masindane

If you think Volvo, the XC90 has always been the range-topper and halo product from which most things flowed. Over the years, there have been updates and additions to the much-loved SUV, most recently with plug-in hybrid variants in the local market. The XC90 will remain in the line-up, but it has now relinquished its range-topper status to the all-electric EX90.

Design and interior

The EX90 is not entirely different from the XC90, but it introduces design elements specific to Volvo’s latest electric models. Up front, there are the familiar Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights, a sealed-off front end, and large 22-inch wheels. The exterior design may take some time to get used to, and we feel it could have been more evolutionary rather than conservative.

Pull the pop-out door handles and you’re greeted by the EX90’s premium, minimalist cabin. A 14-inch touchscreen running a Google-based infotainment system takes centre stage. Other notable features include a 9-inch driver’s display, a tinted panoramic roof, and a Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system.

The cabin is plush and premium, as expected from Volvo. It is not without flaws, though. The infotainment system can be glitchy at times, there is a noticeable lack of physical buttons, and the front cargo space feels limited for a vehicle of this size. On the plus side, there is enough room to comfortably accommodate seven adults.

Drive

Powering the EX90 is a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive electric powertrain producing 380 kW and 910 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. Volvo claims an estimated range of 751 km in urban conditions and 604 km on the combined cycle. The 111 kWh battery, with 107 kWh usable, can be charged from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes using a 250 kW DC fast charger.

On the road, the EX90 feels quick off the line and surprisingly easy to handle for something that weighs 2.8 tonnes. The ride is comfortable, and the 12-camera system makes parking and tight spaces less stressful. Over our time with the vehicle, we averaged 22 kWh/100 km, slightly higher than Volvo’s claimed 20.7 kWh/100 km. Real-world range settled at around 420 km versus the promised 616 km, although our driving style was far from conservative.

Final word

With a starting price of R2,650,000, the EX90 sits firmly at the premium end of the segment. There are cheaper alternatives from other brands, but they may not offer the same combination of space, technology and overall presence as a fully electric family SUV.