Pulling away from the curb, you're sure to sense the ease in which the refined powerplant propels Volvo's large SUV. All subtlety is lost as we merge onto the highway and the once-sedate mill vigorously growls its way to a pleasing 7,000 rpm redline before the next cog is smoothly inserted and the process repeats itself.
Particularly impressive is the polished performance of Volvo's V8. It serves quite unobtrusively until required to dig deep for maximum performance. It really comes alive when the right foot drops, sending the XC90 bounding forward with commendable gusto accompanied by a wonderful CVVT-induced throaty growl.
This is an engine that begs to be pushed but in return pushes the gas bill. I averaged 15.6 litres of premium nectar per 100km of combined city and highway driving.
Handling to rile Munich
As we power out of a switchback and setup for a long sweeper, your senses scream Porsche, not Volvo. The XC90 Re-Design is remarkably stable and composed during cornering. Body lean is negligible. Steering feedback feels authentic and communicative; exactly what one would expect in a premium-level sporty SUV, such as Audi's Q7.
The XC90's sport tuning has enlivened this otherwise capable rig with characteristics to be cherished by those who prioritize handling prowess over ride comfort. And here is where two worlds collide. The XC90 R-Design is not a smooth riding unit. The chassis that performs so admirably in corners fails to do so over bumps.
I found the rigid ride quality of the R-Design simply too firm to justify the extended handling thresholds. Now that's a broad statement rooted in personal preference. Driving enthusiasts may well find the trade-off more than fair. An electronically adjustable suspension setup might resolve the dilemma.
Full suite of Volvo luxury and safety
The XC90 R-Design is an all-inclusive example of Volvo's reputation for safety, and it arrives as standard equipment. The list includes a Dynamic Stability and Traction Control System (DSTC), Roll Stability Control (RSC) and a Roll over Protection System (RPS) combined with a full array of inflatable protection.
In addition to those items meant to protect us, the XC90 R-Design is well-stocked with accoutrements of comfort and convenience. An optional Luxury Package aboard my tester expanded the impressive list to include Active Bending Headlights (ABL), Park Assist and a 12-speaker 650W DynAudio sound system.
Removing the blindfold
Time to regain your vision and allow the notion of riding in a Volvo to crystallize in your unsettled mind. Yes, Volvo can build performance, and the XC90 R-Design is a fine example of that however it comes at a price, paid both financially ($69,195 as tested) and in terms of ride comfort.
Despite these foes to fun, the XC90 R-Design is a vehicle that will provide a niche buyer with a very satisfying and highly capable machine. Keeping your passengers blindfolded will perpetuate the mystery of origin.
photo:Rob Rothwell
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| This is an engine that begs to be pushed but in return pushes the gas bill. |
Particularly impressive is the polished performance of Volvo's V8. It serves quite unobtrusively until required to dig deep for maximum performance. It really comes alive when the right foot drops, sending the XC90 bounding forward with commendable gusto accompanied by a wonderful CVVT-induced throaty growl.
This is an engine that begs to be pushed but in return pushes the gas bill. I averaged 15.6 litres of premium nectar per 100km of combined city and highway driving.
Handling to rile Munich
As we power out of a switchback and setup for a long sweeper, your senses scream Porsche, not Volvo. The XC90 Re-Design is remarkably stable and composed during cornering. Body lean is negligible. Steering feedback feels authentic and communicative; exactly what one would expect in a premium-level sporty SUV, such as Audi's Q7.
The XC90's sport tuning has enlivened this otherwise capable rig with characteristics to be cherished by those who prioritize handling prowess over ride comfort. And here is where two worlds collide. The XC90 R-Design is not a smooth riding unit. The chassis that performs so admirably in corners fails to do so over bumps.
I found the rigid ride quality of the R-Design simply too firm to justify the extended handling thresholds. Now that's a broad statement rooted in personal preference. Driving enthusiasts may well find the trade-off more than fair. An electronically adjustable suspension setup might resolve the dilemma.
Full suite of Volvo luxury and safety
The XC90 R-Design is an all-inclusive example of Volvo's reputation for safety, and it arrives as standard equipment. The list includes a Dynamic Stability and Traction Control System (DSTC), Roll Stability Control (RSC) and a Roll over Protection System (RPS) combined with a full array of inflatable protection.
In addition to those items meant to protect us, the XC90 R-Design is well-stocked with accoutrements of comfort and convenience. An optional Luxury Package aboard my tester expanded the impressive list to include Active Bending Headlights (ABL), Park Assist and a 12-speaker 650W DynAudio sound system.
Removing the blindfold
Time to regain your vision and allow the notion of riding in a Volvo to crystallize in your unsettled mind. Yes, Volvo can build performance, and the XC90 R-Design is a fine example of that however it comes at a price, paid both financially ($69,195 as tested) and in terms of ride comfort.
Despite these foes to fun, the XC90 R-Design is a vehicle that will provide a niche buyer with a very satisfying and highly capable machine. Keeping your passengers blindfolded will perpetuate the mystery of origin.
photo:Rob Rothwell
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