Review
Volvo XC90 T6
A test with the Volvo XC90 had been on our wish list for some time. First and foremost because the XC90 is one of the most beautiful SUVs currently on the road. We were also curious about how the 2.0 T6 petrol engine from which Volvo produces 320 hp feels. We did a test drive with an XC90 T6 in Inscription version.
Motorizations
The Volvo XC90 is available in different engines. At the very top of the range we find the Twin Engine T8 hybrid. This combines a supercharged and a turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor. This gives the T8 400 hp and a maximum system torque of 640 Nm. This hybrid accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. The electric range is about 40 km. For the T8 you have to pay at least 80,350 euros.
If you are looking for a petrol version, you can choose a T6 engine with 320 hp or a T5 with 254 hp. For these models you have to pay at least Euro 65,250 or Euro 62,250 respectively.
Diesel drivers have the choice between a D5 with 225 hp or a D4 with 190 hp. All models of the XC90 are AWD, except the D4. Here you have the choice between AWD or front-wheel drive. The basic prices of the diesel models are between 52,350 euros and 61,950 euros. Both the T8 and all petrol and diesel versions have an eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission.
Equipment levels
In terms of equipment level, you can choose from various options. Kinetic is the basic version followed by Momentum. At the top of the range you can choose from Inscription or R-Design at the same level. The Inscription is for customers who are looking for luxury and who like an elegant look, while R-Design is more for the sporty types. If you are looking for the pinnacle of luxury and style, then there is also the Excellence. For this you must have at least a budget of 124,100 euros. Regardless of the equipment level, the XC90 is a beautiful appearance.
Volvo XC90 Inscription T6 AWD
We were introduced to the new Volvo XC90 through a test drive with the T6 Inscription. The T6 has a four-cylinder 2.0-liter petrol engine with supercharger and turbocharger with an output of 320 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm. The XC90 T6 goes from 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 230 km/h. The T6 drives pleasantly and has sufficient power and offers a lot of driving pleasure, even for sporty drivers. It is impressive what Volvo has done with this 2-liter block. Very efficient. When you’re driving it, you certainly wouldn’t tell it’s a 2.0-liter in terms of performance. This XC90 was only less appealing to us in terms of sound. The engine sounds light and airy, but not really sporty. Perhaps the average buyer of an XC90 is not immediately aware of this or is looking for it. The Volvo XC90 T6, like all other models, has an 8-speed Geartronic automatic transmission and is all-wheel drive. The automatic transmission does its job well and feels responsive.
Our test car was equipped with the Inscription equipment level. It is anything but the cheapest version, but if we look at which versions of the XC90 we see most often, the Inscription seems to be one of the most popular models. According to our personal taste it is too the one you want. The Inscription has, among other things, a striking radiator grille, chrome protective strips at the bottom with the Inscription logo in relief, large 20″ wheels and an integrated double exhaust. The interior exudes luxury with, among other things, electrically operated seats with fine nappa leather upholstery. The base price of the Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription with 7 seats is 71,650 euros.
Conclusion
The XC90 has many assets, but for us the handsome, full and sturdy design of the XC90 is number 1. Externally, the Inscription also looks the best. Very refined and distinguished both inside and out. In terms of driving experience, it is mainly the technology that takes the XC90 to a higher level. With a power of 320 hp, the T6 can more than deliver, but we were less pleased with the sound.
Johan De Haes
Test driver
