This four-cylinder diesel engine is our pick of the range. It provides decent performance coupled with sensible fuel economy. Company car buyers might want to consider the T8 hybrid instead for its lower CO2 emissions, but the majority of buyers will find the diesel spot on.

2.0 B5D [235]

Volvo is now a true rival to the likes of Audi, BMW, Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz, offering an alternative take on premium executive cars to a rapidly growing fanbase.

After a string of strong launches – notably with the Mk2 XC90 and XC60 SUVs – it struck gold in early 2018 when it launched its smallest SUV, the XC40. When our testers compared the car with its rivals, they concluded that it was the best launch of the previous 12 months, earning it our coveted overall Car of the Year Award.

The good news is that, like many car makers, Volvo now uses the same structure underneath most of its cars – so if they get it right on one model, it usually bodes well for the rest. That’s the case here, with Volvo’s subsequent saloon and estate launches complementing the SUVs and making for a generally extremely appealing line-up.

VOLVO

XC90

Upgrading to mid-spec Plus is tempting to get air suspension, but it does demand a considerable price premium. For that you also get a panoramic roof, a Harman Kardon sound system, ambient interior lighting and sun blinds on the rear side windows.

Plus

2.0 B5D [235] Plus Dark 5dr AWD Geartronic

Version review

New Volvo XC90 2.0 B5D [235] Plus Dark 5dr AWD Geartronic Review

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NEW REVIEWS:

site ribbon config

20-b5d-235-plus-dark-5dr-awd-geartronic

Rear wash/wipe with intermittent wipe setting

Bluetooth hands free telephone connection

Anti-theft alarm including immobiliser/volume sensor + level sensor

Rain sensor with automatic windscreen wiper activation

Vehicle deceleration control with Anti-lock Brake System, Electronic Brake Distribution and Emergency Brake Assist

Driver alert control with lane keeping aid

Adaptive brake lights with high level LED brake lights

Seatbelt reminder and pretensioners for all seats

8 speed automatic transmission with start/stop + manual change functions

Power driver seat with multi directional lumbar support and memory for seat and exterior mirrors

Driver awareness - Blind spot information system with steer assist, cross traffic alert with autobrake and rear collision warning and mitigation

Power passenger seat with multi directional lumbar support and memory

LED front fog lights with cornering light function

4 zone electronic climate control with Clean zone air quality system + pollen filter

Auto folding and heated power door mirrors

Dark tinted windows - rear side windows and rear screen

New Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90’s 2024 updates have successfully addressed some issues, and its quieter and more comfortable than before, while its infotainment system has gone from one of its biggest flaws to a firm strength. Some rivals remain a bit more well rounded, but if you go for a B5 petrol in entry-level Core trim, you’ve got yourself a great luxury seven-seater for a reasonable price.

New Volvo XC90 2.0 B5D [235] Plus Dark 5dr AWD Geartronic Review

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39.7

302

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185

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