Despite being well into its fourth model year, you’ll have a hard time finding a more beautifully finished, or more luxuriously appointed mid-size luxury SUV. The Volvo XC90 is exquisitely detailed,…

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription Road Test

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
This second-generation 2016-2019 XC90 has been very good to Volvo. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Despite being well into its fourth model year, you’ll have a hard time finding a more beautifully finished, or more luxuriously appointed mid-size luxury SUV. The Volvo XC90 is exquisitely detailed, particularly when outfitted in its most opulent Inscription trim, which is exactly how I most recently drove it.

The 2019 XC90 on this page is fourth on my list of second-generation testers, and the second to wear Inscription badging, the other two outfitted in sportier R-Design trim, while two have utilized the 316 horsepower mid-range engine with the other duo bridled to the much more potent 400 horsepower plug-in hybrid drivetrain. This in mind, the last non-electrified XC90 I drove was way back in 2016 when this wholly reimagined luxury utility ushered in an entirely new look and much higher level of luxury for the Swedish brand, and by so doing turned Volvo’s fortunes completely around.

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
The XC90 looks fabulous from all angles, especially in top-line Inscription trim. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Volvo more than doubled its Canadian sales toward the end of calendar year 2015 when the 2016 XC90 was introduced, from 10,964 units in Q4 of 2014 to 22,507 in the final three months of 2015, while the XC90’s sales volume grew from 427 units throughout all of 2014 to 957 in 2015 and a stellar 2,951 in calendar year 2016. This said the growth hasn’t stopped, verified by the XC90 hitting a new record of 3,059 deliveries last year, making it the most popular model in Volvo’s lineup.

Yes, the XC90 sells even better than the completely redesigned XC60, the smaller two-row compact luxury model having consistently outsold this three-row mid-size contender prior to both models’ redesign. This is the complete opposite of most others in the class, incidentally, which are consistently outsold by their smaller, more affordable compact luxury SUV siblings.

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
The XC90 introduced Volvo’s signature “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights to the Swedish brand’s lineup, now standard on all models. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

I could only hazard to guess why this occurs, because the XC60 comes closer to matching the XC90’s materials quality, refinement, electronic interfaces and powertrain options as any rival brand, and would save its would-be buyer nearly $13,000 at the bottom end and almost $12k in top-line Inscription T8 eAWD Plug-In Hybrid trim, but either way it appears Volvo SUV buyers are generally wealthier than the class average, or prefer larger, roomier, more substantive machinery.

The XC90 is a true mid-size three-row luxury crossover SUV, measuring 4,950 mm (194.9 inches) from front to rear bumpers with a 2,984-mm (117.5-inch) wheelbase in between, plus 2,140 mm (84.3 inches) wide including its side mirrors, and 1,775 mm (69.9 inches) tall including its roof rails, while providing a considerable 237 mm (9.3 inches) of ground clearance, which helps it trudge through deep snow easily.

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
Inscription trim gets some extra chrome and more outside. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

That size makes it more than just accommodating. Its superbly comfortable front and rear seats confirm this just as notably upon first climbing inside as after a long road trip, a particularly elegant Magic Blue Metallic painted 2017 XC90 T8 Twin Engine eAWD Inscription tester having taken my partner and I out of Greater Vancouver, up the steeply inclined Coquihalla Highway and then over the 97C connector to Kelowna, BC’s wine country during the particularly warm fall of 2016, and while we took no passengers in back we hauled a fair bit of gear (including wine) in the 1,183 litres (41.8 cubic feet) of cargo space available when laying the third row flat.

That’s how I’d leave the seats more often than not if this were my personal ride, as I’d have little need for a third row now that my kids are grown, despite the nicely separated buckets in the very back accommodating my five-foot-eight frame comfortably. Volvo provides a reasonably large 447 litres (15.8 cubic feet) of dedicated cargo volume behind that third row, and trips to the hardware store for building materials are doable thanks to 2,427 litres (85.6 cubic feet) of available space when both rear rows are lowered. As good as all this is, I’m even more impressed by its overall passenger/cargo flexibility, the XC90’s second row divided into thirds so that everyone’s skis can be laid down the middle, thus mitigating potential whining about who gets the three-way-warming window seats.

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
The XC90 Inscription’s cabin is hard to fault, wth some of the finest detailing and highest quality materials in the industry. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Yes, this Inscription model comes well packed with features, second-row seat heaters just one of many upgrades included after choosing to move past base Momentum trim. For 2019 the Momentum starts at $59,750 plus freight and fees, with the more sport-oriented R-Design coming in at $69,800, and the Inscription starting at $71,450. All three Volvo powertrains are offered in the XC90, the Momentum’s exclusive T5 displacing 2.0-litres in four cylinders and using a turbocharger to make 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, the as-tested T6 adding a supercharger to the same powertrain for 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining a 60-kW electric motor for a grand total of 400 net horsepower and 472 net lb-ft of torque. The T6 powertrain adds $4,250 to Momentum trim, whereas the T8 will set Momentum buyers back another $10,950, while the increase from T6 to T8 will cost you $12,650 in either R-Design or Inscription trims. 

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
The XC90 Inscription is the epitome of elegance and sophistication, although it provides a highly technical, minimalist approach to luxury. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

By the way, the 2020 XC90, which will start arriving at Volvo Canada retailers when this review gets published, continues to be available with the same three trim lines as the outgoing 2019 model, although a new six-passenger variant, available solely with T6 AWD Momentum and Inscription trims, provides a more luxuriously-appointed second row and easier access to the very back thanks to captain’s chairs and an aisle down the middle. The 2020 update includes a stylish new concave grille design as well, plus some less noticeable changes, all for a $1,500 hike in base price, less $1,000 in potential incentives at the time of writing. If personal savings matter more to you than getting the latest, greatest model, consider this 2019 XC90 that can provide up to $5,000 in additional incentives. Just visit the 2019 Volvo XC90 Canada Prices page at CarCostCanada, where you can also peruse through trim, package and individual option pricing, as well as find manufacturer rebate info and dealer invoice pricing.

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
The XC90’s fully digital gauge cluster allows for plenty of functions within its multi-info display, including navigational mapping. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

An eight-speed Geartronic automatic with auto start-stop plus all-wheel drive comes standard across the line, although the transmission and AWD systems are unique to both conventional and electrified powertrains, the latter dubbed eAWD for sourcing all of its rear-wheel power from its electric motor.

While a person could theoretically drive their XC90 T8 on electric power alone, its approximate 30-km EV range would necessitate a very short commute with very little highway time, and after that it’s merely a very potent hybrid. Still, as long as you’re not attempting to utilize its full 400 horsepower all the time, this model’s fuel economy improves over both the base T5 and mid-range T6 powertrain from 11.3 L/100km in the city, 8.5 on the highway and 10.0 combined for the T5 AWD, 12.1 city, 8.9 highway and 10.7 combined for the as-tested T6 AWD, to 10.1, 8.8 and 9.5 respectively for the T8.

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
The XC90’s overhead camera is one of the best in the business. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Despite the vehicle I tested being thirstiest on this list, it’s only worst amongst a very efficient lineup of Volvo mid-size luxury SUV trims. Comparatively the segment sales-leading Lexus RX now offers an extended three-row variant that’s nowhere near as roomy in back as the XC90, but can be had in 450h L hybrid form that’s good for the best fuel economy in this class at 8.1 L/100km city, 8.4 highway and 8.1 combined, while the same model in 350 L trim only manages a rating of 13.1 L/100km city, 9.4 highway and 11.1 combined. Likewise, the next most popular Acura MDX does a bit better than the conventionally powered Lexus with a respective 12.2, 9.0 and 10.8, while its hybrid variant achieves 9.1 city, 9.0 highway and 9.0 combined.

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
Truly, the XC90’s jewel-like details are exquisite. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Both Infiniti’s QX60 and Audi’s Q7 split the conventionally powered MDX and RX 350 L results with respective ratings of 12.5 city, 9.0 highway and 10.9 combined and 12.2, 9.5 and 11.0, while, again in order of popularity, Buick’s Enclave rating doesn’t measure up to the XC90 T6 either at 13.8 city, 9.5 highway and 11.9 combined (while also not measuring up in luxury, but I included it because it represents entry-level luxury in this class).

The XC90 is next in the sales hierarchy, followed by Mercedes’ three-row GLS 450 4Matic that only manages an estimated 14.9 city, 11.2 highway and 13.2 combined (how I wish they still offered their diesel), while BMW’s new X7 is rated at 12.0, 9.4 and 10.8, which isn’t too bad for this elongated three-row X5. Land Rover’s Discovery is the only non-hybrid model to beat the XC90, but not with its base V6 that can only manage 14.8, 11.4 and 13.0, this model’s diesel just sneaking below the least stingy XC90 at 11.3, 9.2 and 10.4, while the new 2020 Cadillac XT6 (the more luxurious version of the Buick Enclave) gets an estimated rating of 13.5 city, 9.7 highway and 11.5, and the new 2020 Lincoln Aviator achieves a slightly less efficient 13.7, 9.7 and 11.6 rating.

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
Easily two of the most comfortable front seats in the class. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Such incredible efficiency and the XC90 also outhustles many of the just-noted utilities in the base trims used to compare fuel economy (including the two hybrids, which incidentally the T8 eAWD model annihilates), its mid-range T6 AWD powertrain surprisingly strong for a small displacement four-cylinder thanks to the aforementioned turbo and supercharger combination, its zero to 100 km/h acceleration time being a very spirited 6.5 seconds, which is 1.4 seconds quicker than the base XC90 T5 AWD that manages the feat in 7.9 seconds, and only 0.9 seconds slower than the ultra-advanced T8 eAWD powertrain that scoots the big Volvo from standstill to 100km/h in just 5.6 seconds.

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
The second row is spacious and comfortable. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

My T6 AWD tester not only looks quick on paper, but it really felt strong off the line and even more confidence inspiring when passing slower moving vehicles on the highway, while it takes to the curves effectively too. No, it doesn’t track through quick corners or feel as generally hooked up as the sportiest of Germans in this elite pack, but it can certainly hold its own against all the rest, while it delivers one of the smoothest rides in its class combined with seat comfort that’s hard to beat.

I will refrain from itemizing every feature offered in each trim level as that would be a dreadful bore for both of us and hours of painstaking work for yours truly to endure, although those wanting all the info are free to check out my 2018 XC90 R-Design review in which you can pour over all this insufferable data to your heart’s content, and for those of us who’d rather not, suffice to say the XC90 represents good value for what’s being offered, which as a reminder includes one of, if not the most opulently attired interior in its class this side of a Bentley Bentayga, and honestly much of this Volvo’s switchgear is a helluvalot better than the big winged Brit, while all of its electronic interfaces are miles more advanced.

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
Adults can fit comfortably into the rearmost seats. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Ahead of the driver is a fully digital instrument cluster with the ability to add navigation mapping and route guidance to its centre-mounted multi-information display, amongst most other functions from the vertical, tablet-style Sensus infotainment touchscreen on the centre stack. This is one of my favourite centre displays and it’s packed full with every key feature currently offered by competitors, plus one of the best overhead cameras in existence.

My tester included the awesome sounding $3,250 1,400-watt 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins optional audio system, complete with its lovely drilled aluminum speaker grilles including a tiny centre dash-mounted tweeter, but this particular XC90 didn’t include the jewel-like Orrefors crystal and polished metal shifter found in last year’s R-Design tester, c’est la vie.

2019 Volvo XC90 T6 AWD Inscription
The middle portion of the second row folds down to load in longer items like skis. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

The glittering diamond-pattern metal-edged rotating dial on the centre stack was exquisitely detailed, however, as were the twisting engine start/stop switch and cylindrical drive mode selector on the lower console, while the open-pore hardwood used for the scrolling bin lids around the latter switchgear and shifter, which was also found on the instrument panel and doors was absolutely stunning, not to mention the superbly crafted contrast stitched padded leather covering almost every other surface, which was backed up elsewhere by more high-quality soft-touch composite surfacing than you’ll find on most competitors.

So next time you see someone drive by in a Volvo XC90 you may want to show a similar deference offered to Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Range Rover Autobiography owners, because they’re rolling in a similar level of luxury while doing a lot more to limit fuel usage and mitigate local emissions, plus they’re obviously intelligent enough to get all of the above for hundreds of thousands less than the ultra-utilities just noted.

As you can probably tell I continue to like the XC90 very much, and therefore highly recommend it.

Some want the best price they can get, some want luxury above all, and others want something sporty to spice up their daily commutes. It just so happens that Volvo answers all of the above with its base…

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design Road Test

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
The good looking XC90 gets sportier with R-Design trim. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Some want the best price they can get, some want luxury above all, and others want something sporty to spice up their daily commutes. It just so happens that Volvo answers all of the above with its base Momentum, sporty R-Design, and ritziest Inscription trims, while still providing plenty of value, performance and luxury in each. 

When Volvo first introduced its completely overhauled XC90 mid-size luxury SUV for the 2016 model year I tested and reviewed a T6 AWD R-Design, which was such an improvement over its predecessor and so much more competitive against key rivals that it was easy to recommend. I followed this experience up with a 2017 XC90 T8 eAWD Inscription, which increased straight-line performance while replacing some of the R-Design’s sporty detailing for a classier, richer look and feel. For 2018, I was once again given the chance to test the faster T8 eAWD powertrain, albeit in R-Design trim with a sportier wheel and tire upgrade, and I must say it was a match made in heaven. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
The XC90’s distinctive rear styling makes it stand out in a crowd. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

R-Design trim gives a sporting twist to the inherently elegant XC90, complete with a black mesh grille insert, less chrome and metallic trim, an edgier body-colour and glossy black lower front fascia, satin-silver mirror caps, machine-finish twinned five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels with black painted pockets (that were upgraded to 22s on my tester), and a body-colour bumper filled with a unique gloss black diffuser-style grille. Together with the XC90’s dramatically penned standard features that include Volvo trademark Thor’s hammer LED headlights and an eye-grabbing set of vertical LED taillights, all set within a gracefully shaped body shell that’s easy on the eyes no matter the angle, the XC90 R-Design is one compelling package. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
R-Design trim provides a sportier body-colour and glossy black lower fascia. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Along with its outwardly pleasing character the XC90 provides one of the more visually appealing and best executed interiors in the mid-size luxury SUV class, this particular model finished in classic black with satin-silver and optional carbon-fibre detailing, the leather-covered dash, door uppers, armrests and seat upholstery featuring sporty white contrast stitching, the light coloured thread coming standard, but all the fanciful leather made available due to a $3,000 Leather package that also includes rear side sunshades. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
All XC90s come standard with Volvo’s trademark Thor’s Hammer full LED headlamps. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Those seats look absolutely stunning, and their standard 10-way adjustability, upgraded to special sport seats with power-extendable lower cushions and expanded side bolstering in the R-Design, made them even nicer on the back than they are to the eyes, with all around good inherent design and no shortage of calibration. Additional interior highlights include gorgeous perforated aluminum speaker grilles for the sensational sounding $3,250 1,400-watt 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio upgrade, plus a jewel-like Orrefors crystal and polished metal shifter, because hey, we all need one of those. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
These gorgeous 22-inch alloys are optional, with the R-Design normally riding on 20s. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Of course, the XC90’s finer detailing is more of a wants over needs issue, the beautifully detailed diamond-pattern bright metal rotating start-stop knob making a luxury statement all on its own, although it’s backed up by a cylindrical drive mode selector shod in the same dazzling full metal jacket. These last three items are totally unique details that separate Volvo from any other brand, giving its cabin an upscale ambience that wouldn’t feel out of place to a Bentley or Rolls-Royce owner. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
R-Design trim includes this exclusive body-colour and black diffuser-style rear bumper. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Luxury snobs might find that last statement laughable, but truth be told that’s only because we’re all conditioned to believe such highfalutin ultra-premium brands are better in every way then lesser nameplates, yet such is not always the case. The quality of leather, metal and composite workmanship around the XC90’s cabin proves this point, with hard plastic difficult to find and the design, density, fitment, and damping of Volvo’s switchgear second to none. 

Likewise, the 8.0-inch digital instrument display is mighty impressive for a standard primary gauge package, not to mention filled with useful functions like navigation directions, phone details, road sign info and more, but the standard 12.3-inch TFT gauge cluster in my R-Design is even more cutting-edge and gets all the same features plus four configurable graphic modes. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
XC90 interior quality and refinement is second to none in its mid-size luxury SUV class. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Over on the centre stack the XC90’s vertically positioned 9.0-inch tablet-style Sensus touchscreen is better yet thanks to its multi-award-winning infotainment interface with ultra-familiar tap, pinch and swipe gesture controls. Truly, it’s best of the best when it comes to user-friendliness and overall functionality, while its standard feature set, including a backup camera, four-zone climate control, navigation, real-time traffic info, voice activation, Volvo On Call app (with remote start, vehicle tracking, and more), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, audio/radio functions, car settings, etcetera, leaves nothing to the imagination. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
The optional Bowers & Wilkins stereo is superb, and the perforated aluminum speaker grilles are stunning. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Another area of Volvo technology leadership is powertrains. Its singular engine approach is unique in the industry, and I must say quite brilliant. Rather than wasting resources on myriad engine configurations and displacements, the Swedish brand makes one direct-injection turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder Drive-E engine and sources one eight-speed Geartronic automatic transmission before implementing this combination in a variety of ways throughout its entire lineup. A model’s trim level doesn’t denote the powertrain provided, although only the base Momentum is available with the least potent T5 AWD combination, good for 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
This is one of the most ergonomically friendly cockpits in the segment. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Momentum, R-Design and Inscription trims can all be had with either T6 AWD or T8 eAWD drivetrains, both of which feature a turbocharger and a supercharger. This twin charging process allows for a maximum of 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque in the T6 AWD, and thanks to a complementary Twin Engine plug-in hybrid electric motor/battery combo, a monstrous 400 net horsepower and 472 net lb-ft of torque in the T8 eAWD. 

Monstrous probably isn’t the right word to describe T8 eAWD performance, as it’s the most progressively linear 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque you’ll likely ever experience. I’ve enjoyed the T8 around town, on long high-speed freeway trips and most every other type of roadway in between, and have grown to appreciate its relentless forward thrust as much as its smooth, refined demeanor. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
An 8.0-inch digital gauge package comes standard, although the R-Design gets upgraded to this even nicer 12.3-inch configurable cluster. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

To be clear, it’s fast, but it’s no Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S or BMW X5 M beater, and it’s not even trying to be. Instead, Volvo has its sights on the Mercedes-Benz GLE 550e 4Matic and BMW X5 xDrive40e, its mid-five second sprint to 100km/h coming milliseconds from matching the former and annihilating the latter by more than a second, while its claimed fuel economy rating is 10.1 L/100km in the city, 8.8 on the highway and 9.5 combined compared to 11.1 L/100km combined for the Merc and 9.9 combined for the Bimmer. Volvo’s small-displacement four-cylinder, twin power and plug-in hybrid combination certainly pays off in performance and at the pump. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
The R-Design gets exclusive paddle-shifters behind its sport steering wheel to improve driver engagement. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Of course, all of the aforementioned SUVs were designed to drive on electric power only for about 30 kilometres before automatically starting up their respective internal combustion engines and continuing on as hybrids—the T8’s battery was upsized this year for an estimated 30.5-km of range from its two electric motors. While 30 km doesn’t sound like a lot, if your commute is short it’s possible to get to and from work without using any gasoline at all, but Volvo more realistically estimates the result of regular charging (which takes about three hours from a 240-volt charger) will reward you with an Le/100km (gasoline litres equivalent per 100 kilometres) rating of 4.7 combined city/highway. That would make a welcome improvement to my fuel budget, considering pump prices for regular in my area are now averaging above $1.50/litre after hitting record highs of $1.65 in May, let alone premium unleaded that shot up to $1.87 last month. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
Volvo’s award-winning Sensus infotainment system is excellent, and the optional overhead parking monitor is one of the industry’s best too. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Similar to the formidable yet linear power delivery, the XC90’s ride and handling compromise is wonderfully agile without any harshness. Even with my tester’s optional Pirelli Scorpion 275/35R22s it remained comfortably compliant no matter the road surface, yet pushed hard through a serpentine set of switchbacks it lived up to its European performance pedigree. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
Of course the shift knob is made from Orrefors crystal. Doesn’t every manufacturer go so far to pamper its clientele? (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Adapting to your mood and/or surrounding conditions, Volvo allows for adjustable steering and Drive-Mode settings, the former modulating between low, medium and high steering assistance, and the latter featuring Comfort, Eco, Dynamic (sport) or Off-Road modes. It’s a quick and easy system to set up, and makes a big difference to how the XC90 drives. 

Volvo backs up the XC90’s confidence inspiring performance with a plentiful supply of advanced driver assistance systems, safety having always been core to the Swedish brand’s ethos. It starts with auto on/off LED headlights with active cornering, forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking (that even includes its own head-up display), lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, and rear parking sensors. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
Got to love the diamond-pattern metal detailing on the standard rotating ignition switch. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

My tester was upgraded with a $2,000 Vision package that adds blindspot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, one of the clearest, most helpful 360-degree surround-view parking monitors in the business, and power-folding auto-dimming side mirrors to go along with the standard auto-dimming rearview mirror inside, while a $2,200 Convenience package included front parking sensors, semi-autonomous Park Assist self-parking, semi-autonomous Pilot Assist self-driving with adaptive cruise control, a Homelink garage door opener and a few other handy items. Lastly, my loaner came with a $1,250 Climate package adding a heatable steering wheel, heated rear outboard seats, and heated wiper blades, making it perfectly suited up for winter ski trips with the entire family. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
The R-Design’s upgraded sport seats are truly superb, while these were improved further with leather upholstery. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Additionally, Volvo offers plenty of standalone options, such as a graphical head-up display, a dual-monitor 7.0-inch rear entertainment system, an integrated second-row booster seat, an active air suspension, and more. 

I’d be remiss not to jot down some key standard features too. Momentum trim starts at $59,150 for the T5, $63,350 for the T6, and $74,950 for the T8, these prices easily sourced on CarCostCanada.com, along with invoice pricing, rebate information and much more, with standard items not yet mentioned including fog lamps, proximity keyless access with pushbutton ignition and a hands-free powered tailgate, metal treadplates, aluminum interior inlays, rain-sensing wipers, satellite radio, a powered panoramic moonroof, a cooled glove box, rear climate controls, heatable powered front seats with four-way powered lumbar, driver’s memory, mechanical releasing second-row seats, power-folding rear headrests, a semi-automatic load cover, a cargo opening metal scuff plate, active noise control (with engine enhancement), roof rails, and more. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
Second-row roominess and comfort is generous. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Features not yet mentioned on the R-Design, which starts at $67,900 for the T6 and $80,050 for the as-tested T8, include more sporty styling and trim modifications, a perforated leather steering wheel, exclusive steering wheel paddle shifters that really make a difference to driver engagement, metal pedals, a black roofliner, etcetera, while the Inscription, priced at $69,550 for the T6 and $81,650 for the T8, features a more luxurious exterior and interior design motif including genuine walnut inlays and standard perforated Nappa leather upholstery, plus ventilated front seats with power-adjustable side bolsters, front passenger seat memory, rear sunshades, and more. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
This massive powered panoramic sunroof comes standard. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

No matter the trim, it all comes in an interior that’s extremely comfortable and very roomy. Even the third row was spacious enough for my medium-build five-foot-eight frame to fit in without feeling cramped, leaving about an inch ahead of my knees when the second-row was pushed as far rearwards as possible. I had a couple of inches remaining over my head too, plus ample elbowroom thanks to armrest cutouts. Volvo also provides pillar-mounted air vents for superb third-row ventilation, these identical to those found on the backside of the B-pillars for second-row passengers, while roof-mounted LED reading lights benefit both rear rows. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
The third-row is spacious enough for medium sized adults. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

I wouldn’t expect anyone to gripe about cargo capacity either, with 447 litres (15.8 cubic feet) available aft of the rearmost seatbacks, 1,183 litres (41.8 cubic feet) behind the second-row, and 2,427 litres (85.6 cubic feet) when both rear rows are flattened. What’s more, Volvo adds to XC90 versatility by dividing the second row into thirds in order to fit loads of long cargo like skis down the middle while the two outboard rear passengers enjoy the comfort of window seats (and those aforementioned rear heaters). Additionally, the load floor is almost totally flat when lowered, plus Volvo includes a convenient flip-up divider in the very back for stopping smaller items from shifting forward. 

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 eAWD R-Design
The XC90 swallows up loads of cargo. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

It’s tempting to go on and on describing the exceptionally good build quality of those seats, their folding mechanisms, the solid sound made when each door shuts, the beautiful finishing and fine materials used throughout, etcetera, etcetera, but I’d better leave it there in order to let you enjoy a few surprises for yourself. The XC90 is a superb luxury SUV that you should experience firsthand, after which I’m willing to bet you’ll be hard pressed to leave behind when it comes time to go home.

Volvo Car Canada Ltd. delivered 7,102 vehicles in 2017 compared to 6,103 the year prior, which represents an increase of 16.4 percent. What’s more, with 668 vehicles sold in December compared to just…

Volvo grows Canadian sales by 16.4 percent in 2017

2018 Volvo XC60 T6R
Thanks to the popularity of the new 2018 XC60, Volvo Canada grew sales by 16.4 percent to 7,102 vehicles in 2017. (Photo: Volvo)

Volvo Car Canada Ltd. delivered 7,102 vehicles in 2017 compared to 6,103 the year prior, which represents an increase of 16.4 percent. What’s more, with 668 vehicles sold in December compared to just 433 sales in the same month of 2016, deliveries are up 54.3 percent. In total, Volvo has enjoyed twenty-seven consecutive months of year-over-year sales growth.

“We are thrilled with the double-digit growth of the Volvo Canada brand in 2017,” said Alexander Lvovich, Managing Director, Volvo Car Canada Ltd. “The XC90 continued to account for our best-selling model, but sales of the all-new XC60 and its predecessor were also significant contributors to 2017 sales.”

2018 Volvo S90
Volvo sold 784 S90s last year, which represented a 532.2-percent increase over combined S90 and S80 sales in 2016. (Photo: Volvo)

The XC60 found 2,315 buyers in 2017 compared to 1,526 in 2016, representing a 51.7 percent year-over-year increase. This said the updated XC60 was only introduced last summer, which means a full 12 months of sales should result in a much bigger impact this year.

Deliveries of the S90 mid-size sedan were also strong throughout 2017 at 784 units, after Volvo delivered just 101 in 2016, but the former low number was only because the S90 arrived toward the end of the year. This said when combined with sales of the S80 it replaced, which totaled just 23 units in 2016, Volvo shows 532.2 percent growth in this segment alone.

2018 Volvo V90 Cross Country
Volvo’s V90 Cross Country arrived in Q1 of 2017 and the V90 wagon later in the year, but even so it’s sales were lacklustre. (Photo: Volvo)

It’s quite possible the XC60 and XC90’s combined market strength played a significant role in the new V90 mid-size wagon and its raised crossover-style V90 Cross Country sibling’s comparatively slow sales, which despite the latter becoming available in Q1 of 2017 and the former later in the year totaled just 444 units (103 for the V90 and 341 for the V90 CC) over the year. That’s roughly double 2016’s XC70 sales, which was the decade-old model replaced by the V90 CC last year, but the still long-in-tooth XC70 found 426 buyers the year prior, 513 in 2014, 624 in 2013, and steadily greater numbers in years past to the point that together with the long-gone V70 it sold 1,220 units in 2010.

2018 Volvo V90 T6R
Wagons might not be as popular as they once were, but the sporty V90 is a very sporty alternative to an SUV. (Photo: Volvo)

When a completely new model (especially one that’s been very well received by the automotive press and customers alike) can’t even muster enough support to beat previous years’ sales of a very old predecessor it says a lot about the mid-size luxury wagon/wagon-crossover market on the whole. No wonder Audi dropped its once competitive A6 Avant and A6 Allroad in Canada, while Buick’s choice not to bring its stylish new 2018 Regal TourX north of the 49th appears to make sense as well. Still, the V90 and V90 CC improved on 2016 calendar year sales of its predecessor so it’s a narrow win for Volvo Canada, and there’s always 2018, a full year of availability, to improve its sales performance.

2018 Volvo S60
Sales of cars are down generally, while S60 deliveries are also slow because it hasn’t been updated with Volvo’s new design language. (Photo: Volvo)

Ironically, other than the D-segment S60 and V60, which are yet to benefit from redesigns and therefore saw their sales dip 45.0 and 27.6 percent, from 657 and 627 units respectively in 2016 to 361 and 454 units last year, the only other model to falter in 2017 was the XC90 mid-size SUV that ushered in the brand’s metamorphosis, its 2,650 calendar year total falling from a recent high of 2,951 units in 2016, this due in part to availability of the aforementioned XC60, plus 2017 being the second year of this new generation and pent-up demand now ebbing.

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 R-Design
XC90 sales dipped in 2017, mostly because they were so strong in 2016. (Photo: Volvo)

Volvo wasn’t the only brand to experience an uptick in sales last year, the entire Canadian automotive industry having improved 4.6 percent over 2016, marking the eighth consecutive year of sales increases since 2009 and the first time more than 2 million units have been sold over a given calendar year.

Of note, out of 2,038,798 total vehicle sales, light truck sales, which include crossover SUVs, grew 8.7 percent to nearly 1.4 million units in 2017, while passenger car sales fell by 3.4 percent to about 640,000 deliveries, which was their lowest level since 1964 (hence some of the challenges with the V90 series).

2018 Volvo S90
Volvo’s new interiors are very impressive, matching and even surpassing many of their German competitors. (Photo: Volvo)

This year-over-year growth came despite a tapering of sales in both November and December, which saw declines of 1.1 and 1.2 percent respectively. How this bodes for 2018 is anyone’s guess, although Volvo will probably still experience an upturn due to the entirely new XC40 subcompact SUV arriving in March, plus the redesigned S60 and V60/V60 Cross Country scheduled for summer’s end.

“With the arrival of the XC40 this March, and two more models launching in the second half of the year, our brand is poised to have a strong 2018,” added Lvovich. “We would like to thank our retailer network for their efforts and their commitment to customer satisfaction throughout the year.”

2019 Volvo XC40
The new 2019 XC40 should prove very popular amongst entry-level luxury buyers. (Photo: Volvo)

When the XC40 and D-segment models arrive later this this year, Volvo will have completely redesigned its entire model range and bolstered its ranks with a fresh new entry.

Along with a completely new brand-wide design language that’s been almost universally praised by industry pundits and customers alike, the Swedish automaker has one of the more innovative approaches to powertrains in the auto business. No matter the vehicle offered, the same fuel-efficient turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-litre four-cylinder gets installed, although when moving up through the trim lines it either gets additional supercharging to move performance from 258 horsepower to 316, or a plug-in hybrid system that cranks out 400 horsepower and can also drive about 50 km on pure electric propulsion alone.

On top of all this, Volvo’s interiors are some of the most luxurious in the premium sector, its new tablet-style infotainment system is winning awards for functionality and user-friendliness, its advanced driver assistance and active/passive safety systems are some of the most advanced available, its prices are very reasonable for what you get, and the list goes on.

Needless to say there are plenty of reasons backing up Volvo’s recent sales success.

Polestar, a name that was formed to conjure images of Sweden’s cold northern regions (north star, north pole) as well as achieving pole position (being in the very front at the start of a race), became…

Volvo XC60 and XC90 Polestar models good for 421 hp if you can get one

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 with Polestar Performance Optimization
Volvo’s popular XC90 can be upgraded with new Polestar Performance Optimization packages for T5 and T6 trims, but we’re still waiting on the 421-hp T8 version. (Photo: Volvo)

Polestar, a name that was formed to conjure images of Sweden’s cold northern regions (north star, north pole) as well as achieving pole position (being in the very front at the start of a race), became Volvo’s official in-house performance division in 2015 after decades of independent racing programs, concept car development, upgrade packages with performance tuning, plus full Polestar branded S60 and V60 sport models.

Now Polestar is being spun off as a standalone brand complete with a new double-V logo (kind of like this “><”), while it will also continue optimizing Volvo models under its new Polestar Engineered sub-brand, its latest creations promising to become both environmental icons and impressively quick SUVs.

2018 Volvo XC60 T6
Volvo’s new 2018 XC60 T6 can be upgraded to 334-hp with its available Polestar Performance Optimization package. (Photo: Volvo)

It all starts with some very impressive rolling stock, Volvo’s all-new 2018 XC60 compact SUV with its top-tier T8 Twin Engine power unit, and the 2018 XC90 T8 Twin Engine mid-size model, two luxury SUVs that produce 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque for claimed sprints of zero to 100km/h in just 5.3 and 5.6 seconds apiece respectively when “Power” mode is selected. While this is already impressive, the new Polestar versions pump up combined gasoline and electric output by 21 horsepower and 28 lb-ft of torque each, for new totals of 421 horsepower and 501 lb-ft.

Polestar branding
Volvo announced a separate new Polestar brand of electrified performance models, and this is the logo. (Photo: Polestar)

While shaving just 0.1 seconds from the larger SUV’s sprint time and an undisclosed (so far) amount from the smaller, lighter model (likely about 0.2 seconds for just over 5.0 seconds to 100km/h), other aspects of engine performance and gearbox functionality are improved as well, including “throttle response, off-throttle response, gearshift speed and hold,” taking the new models to “a new level of driving pleasure,” said Volvo in a press release. Volvo promises the changes will be most noticeable during everyday driving, such as when merging onto the highway, overtaking a slower vehicle or exiting a curve.

Polestar 1 Concept
This Polestar 1 rendering promises an exciting future for Volvo’s spinoff performance brand. (Photo: Polestar)

“The gearbox shifts faster,” adds Volvo, with gearshift points that have been “calibrated to utilize the optimized mid-range engine performance.” Likewise, “the gear-hold function maintains the same gear when cornering with high lateral g-force in order to avoid unsettling the balance of the car.”

“Our goal is to create usable performance in everyday driving situations for Volvo owners who want an enhanced driving experience,” said Henrik Fries, Vice President, Research and Development at Polestar when speaking about the new XC60 T8 with the Polestar upgrade. “The new XC60 has provided us with an excellent base to work on with a dynamic chassis and a state of the art powertrain. With the Polestar optimization, it makes the new Volvo XC60 a true drivers’ car.”

2018 Volvo S90 T8
In an interesting twist on the way most people see performance, Volvo’s plug-in electrified T8 models will produce the most power. (Photo: Volvo)

Separating these two specially tuned Volvos from other performance SUVs are expected fuel economy numbers that won’t anger Mother Nature. In fact, they shouldn’t change much from the less powerful variants, the XC60 T8 Twin Engine-powered SUV already achieving a claimed 10.1 L/100km in the city, 7.3 on the highway and 8.8 combined, while the XC90 T8 Twin Engine gets a claimed 10.1 L/100km city, 8.8 highway and 9.5 combined, or 4.7 Le/100km combined city/highway when factoring in regular plug-in charging (or potentially zero if your daily commute is less than its 43-kilometre EV range).

2018 Volvo XC90 T8 with Polestar Performance Optimization
While all Polestar Performance Optimization packages improve acceleration and responsiveness, enthusiasts are talking most about the 421-hp T8 version. (Photo: Volvo)

While all this spells good news for Volvo’s performance fans, the hiccup has been delivery. Dealers have XC60 T8 and XC90 T8 customers waiting for the Polestar optimization upgrades, but so far the package components haven’t arrived. How long can those customers expect to wait? According to Kyle Denton, Public Relations and Events Manager for Volvo Canada, “There is no timeline set at this point.”

Considering Volvo Canada made the official T8 Polestar Performance Optimization package announcement all the way back in July, garnering a lot of news and plenty of excitement in the process, having no timeline for delivery isn’t likely the answer those customers expected to hear.

2018 Volvo XC60 T6
No matter the drivetrain and performance available, all new Volvos get exceptionally good fuel economy. (Photo: Volvo)

Of note, XC60 and XC90 customers that purchase base T5 and mid-range T6 powertrains can get Polestar optimized packages, with both models using the T5 powertrain getting a 7 horsepower nudge to 261 horsepower, and those fitted with the T6 enjoying a more significant 14 horsepower bump to 334 horsepower. Like the T8 models covered above, Volvo stresses the biggest improvements are made to powertrain and transmission responsiveness throughout the rev range.

2018 Volvo XC90 T8
The XC60 and XC90’s 2.0-litre turbo-four is available with six different tuning levels when factoring in Polestar variants. (Photo: Volvo)

Volvo also offers Polestar Performance Optimization with its other models, but only its S90 and V90/V90 Cross Country models experience a power boost when applied to its T5 engine, the increase identical to the XC60 and XC90’s, resulting in 261 horsepower. The S60 and V60/V60 Cross Country T5s remain unchanged at 243 horsepower, with the Polestar upgrade only enhancing how that power is applied. Alternatively, like the XC60 and XC90 T6 models, Polestar Performance Optimization packages for the S90 and V90/V90 Cross Country T6 boost the models to 334 horsepower, whereas S60 and V60/V60 Cross Country T6 models move up 4 horsepower to 310.

2018 Volvo XC90 T8
XC60 and XC90 performance ranges from 254 to 421 horsepower. (Photo: Volvo)

As noted earlier, Polestar has its roots in motorsport. It began as Flash Engineering in 1996 under the leadership of Swedish Touring Car Championship (STCC) winner Jan ‘Flash’ Nilsson, with the purpose of contesting Volvos in the same series, initiated by a Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) built 850 Super Touring sedan. A TWR-constructed S40 Super Touring was entered in 1998, after which a Prodrive-sourced S60 S2000 hit the track in 2003.

With more than 100 STCC wins spanning nearly a decade to its credit, Christian Dahl, who originally joined Flash as chief mechanic in 2001, purchased the team halfway through 2004 and rebranded it Polestar in 2005. Polestar Racing continued to compete and win with the S60 S2000 until 2009 when a C30 S2000 became the basis for the next-generation STCC challenger, which was the same year they started modifying Volvo road cars under their separate Polestar Performance brand.

Volvo Polestar racing history
Volvo has enjoyed decades of motorsport involvement thanks to association with Polestar, this photo showing a double victory at the famed Nürburgring track. (Photo: Volvo)

The first street-spec car was the one-off 405-horsepower all-wheel drive C30 Polestar Concept in 2010, complete with a 4.6-second sprint to 100 km/h and the audacious sound of straight exhaust, followed by the S60 Polestar Concept in 2012, which produced 508 horsepower and hit 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds before attaining a top speed of 299 km/h (186 mph). These garnered so much interest that production cars ensued in 2013, including the S60 Polestar and the V60 Polestar.

All Polestar optimized Volvos pull from that lengthy motorsport heritage, and therefore promise stronger performance along with all the other attributes Volvos are revered for.

It should be noted that Polestar Engineered upgrades are installed at the dealer level, so you have the option of adding them at the time of purchase and including it in your monthly payment, or doing so at a later date. Either way, upping performance with the Polestar Performance Optimization package doesn’t infringe on your Volvo’s warranty.

For more information, contact your Volvo retailer.