Impressive tech, but new model takes minimalism too far

VOLVO is of course synonymous with advanced safety features, and the new EX90 takes all that to the next level — it’s nothing short of a supercomputer on wheels.

- JASON WOOSEY [e-mail]

That distinctive lump on its roof houses a Lidar system that can spot small objects hundreds of metres ahead. It pairs with eight cameras, five radars and 16 ultrasonic sensors to provide all the eyes and ears you might require to keep you safe if your own senses are out of order.

Although superseding the XC90 as the Swedish brand's new flagship SUV, the all-electric EX90 doesn’t directly replace its internal combustion sibling, which soldiers on in facelifted form.

The EX90 is really expensive. It’s only available in the flagship “Twin Motor” guise, with all the trimmings, but at an eye-watering price tag of R2.65 million. Yet if you can stomach that, it is a relatively unique proposition for those seeking a large family-sized seven-seat electric vehicle.

Design and packaging

The EX90 follows a familiar design path, appearing like a logical evolution of the XC90, with smoother lines and a grill-less front end. It manages to be easy on the eye, yet still somewhat imposing on the road, which is a win in our book.

A shade over five metres long and almost two metres wide, the EX90 certainly is big and imposing, and as a result, it’s impressively spacious inside.

The big Volvo seats seven occupants in reasonable comfort. The third-row seats can accommodate adults and teens at a push, but might not be ideal for longer trips. Impressively, the boot still swallows 324 litres of luggage with all seven seats in place, swelling to 697 litres if the third row is folded.

Interior and functionality