When a new family-oriented SUV comes out, we normally don’t pay that much attention but the Volvo XC-90 is a little bit different and it asks for your attention. Things are never normal at Volvo. It’s hard performance figures in the range topper 400bhp XC90 make us want to talk about it again and again.
Volvo’s press release states, “Volvo Cars chose not to compromise on performance, driving pleasure, efficiency or even luggage space.” The XC-90 takes its power from a petrol-electric hybrid setup, which makes a combined 395bhp and 472lb ft of torque. The result is 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds in a seven-seater SUV with emissions of just 59g/km.
The 2.0-litre Drive-E petrol engine is a four-cylinder supercharged and turbocharged unit, which makes 314bhp. On the top of the rear axle sits an 81bhp electric motor, which powers just the rear wheels. Volvo has five drive modes. ‘Hybrid’ aims to deliver the most efficient journey possible by using the electric motor and petrol engine together.
‘Save’ stops the electric motor from getting used, preserving the battery charge. ‘Pure electric’ allows up to 25 miles to be travelled without the petrol engine kicking in, while ‘AWD’ lets the driver ensure power goes to all four wheels.
Finally, there’s ‘power mode’ which ensures you have all 395bhp available by just moving your right foot. With the new XC-90 our faith has been restored in planet-saving vehicles.
