9 ROYAL TISTS

Is the new Volvo XC90 a True Palace on Wheels?

- RAMESH SOMANI

The Volvo XC90 has long been an understated contender in the luxury seven-seater SUV segment. And by seven seats, I mean genuinely usable ones—including a third row that doesn’t feel like exile. Its facelift was long overdue, but when it finally arrived, it did so in grand fashion. I’ve spent considerable time with the new XC90, even taking it on a treacherous long drive from Delhi to Ladakh a few years ago with friends. We all came back thoroughly impressed.

From the freezing winters of Ladakh to the dry summers of Rajasthan—what happens when Scandinavian sophistication meets the grandeur of Udaipur? Enter the new 2025 Volvo XC90, a luxury SUV that claims to be fit for royalty. But does it truly live up to its ‘palace on wheels’ reputation? We took it on a grand tour of Udaipur—the city of lakes, palaces, and timeless opulence—and conducted nine royal tests to find out.

THE MAHARAJA TEST — FIT FOR ROYALTY?

The first test had to be the Maharaja Test! Udaipur practically oozes royalty—if it were a car, it would be handcrafted, dipped in gold, and adorned with jewels. The XC90, on the other hand, brings Scandinavian craftsmanship, a plush lounge-like cabin, and a crystal gear shifter to the equation. Close enough?

Step inside, and you're greeted by Nappa leather upholstery, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and a cabin so silent it could rival a meditation retreat. With a four-zone air purification system and PM 2.5 sensors, the XC90 ensures you're breathing air purer than what the Maharajas did in their grand courtyards. Against the backdrop of palaces, it struck a perfect pose, making the lakes and historic architecture look even more regal. It certainly turned heads.