Volvo EX90: First Impressions from Behind the Wheel
Volvo has entered the Australian electric vehicle (EV) market with its largest and most luxurious offering yet: the EX90. As a self-proclaimed EV enthusiast and founder of carloop, an Australian EV data and insights company, I recently had the opportunity to spend a day driving the new EX90 around Adelaide and the Barossa Valley. This review covers essential aspects, from its Scandinavian design to its advanced safety features and electric performance.
A Luxury EV in the Australian Market
Diving into the details, the EX90 positions itself firmly in the premium segment. It’s available in two variants: the Plus Twin Motor, starting from $124,990, and the Ultra Twin Motor Performance, priced at $134,990. Both options come equipped with impressive features.
Safety First: Volvo’s Signature Focus
Volvo has long been recognized for its commitment to automotive safety, and the EX90 continues this legacy. According to Volvo, this is the safest car they’ve ever built. Both models boast a 111 kWh Nickel Cobalt Manganese (NCM) battery pack, offering a range of up to 570 km on a single charge. This battery supports fast charging at speeds up to 250 kW, allowing a 10-80% charge in about 30 minutes at the appropriate DC fast chargers.
Charging and Performance
AC charging up to 11 kW is also available for home or workplace charging. The charging port’s placement on the passenger side, towards the rear, is a thoughtful design compatible with Tesla’s Supercharger network, which is accessible to non-Tesla vehicles.
The Plus Twin Motor variant, powered by the 111 kWh battery pack, delivers 300 kW, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. The Ultra Twin Motor Performance upgrade increases the power to 380 kW, reducing the sprint time to an impressive 4.9 seconds. The EX90 has the performance and range to meet the needs of EV drivers in Australia.
Cutting-Edge Safety Technology
Safety is paramount in the EX90, and the vehicle is packed with advanced technology. This includes a LiDAR system, combined with Nvidia Drive hardware and Volvo’s software, providing a 360-degree view of the surroundings. This system can detect small objects from hundreds of meters away, assisting the driver with informed maneuvers and avoiding potential hazards. On highway drives, the system’s capabilities were seamlessly integrated, avoiding any distracting alerts.
Driving Experience and Interior Comfort
Engaging autonomous driving features is simple, initiated with the gear selector stalk, offering a smooth experience around bends. The steering is very responsive, particularly in the firm setting, and a softer setting is available for those preferring lighter steering. One-pedal driving is a standout feature, enhancing the EV driving experience. The regenerative braking performed well, and the auto-hold function is useful for those less inclined to use high regenerative braking.
Inside the cabin, Volvo’s minimalist design philosophy is evident. A panoramic glass roof with high UV protection enhances the spacious feel. The front seats offer comfort, and the 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, powered by Google’s Android Automotive, is a central feature. Google Maps integrates seamlessly with trip planning tools and real-time charger locations, which many competitors lack. The Bowers and Wilkins sound system provided an immersive sound experience during the journey.
The rear seats offer ample space, and the third row is functional and easily adjustable. The third row limits cargo space when in use, but the EX90 also offers impressive towing capabilities, rated at 2.2 tonnes.
Conclusion: A Promising Direction
The EX90 showcases Volvo’s direction in the EV market. With its advanced technology, luxurious interior, balanced ride, and minimalist Scandinavian design, it could be a winner in 2025. This first drive highlighted the EX90’s potential to appeal to Australian EV enthusiasts, combining performance, safety, and luxury in a sophisticated package. The EX90 appears to be the future of Volvo.
