FYI: The 2025 Volvo EX90 redefines what it means to be a luxury electric SUV with third-row seating, offering exceptional comfort, innovative technology, and robust performance.
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. – If you’re in the market for a luxury electric SUV that comes with the comfort and convenience of third-row seating, the options have been quite limited. Rivian’s R1S has been the go-to choice, with the Kia EV9 as a notable contender featuring a rich array of amenities. But things are changing significantly with the introduction of the 2025 Volvo EX90, the next generation of the much-loved XC90 three-row SUV. This new model aims to blend electric performance with sumptuous comfort, all without making you feel like you’re compromising.
Powerful Electric Performance
The 2025 Volvo EX90 comes in two main trims: Twin Motor and Twin Motor Performance.
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Twin Motor: With 408 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque, this version takes the hefty 5,687-pound SUV from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 5.7 seconds. Most of the time, the front axle’s 241-horsepower motor takes charge, with the rear motor providing 160 horsepower for added punch when needed.
- Twin Motor Performance: This variant boosts total power to 517 horsepower and 671 pound-feet of torque, thanks to an upgraded 268-horsepower rear motor. It brings a 0-60 mph time down to a speedy 4.7 seconds. Equipped with a torque-vectoring electronic clutch on the rear axle, this version is supposed to handle better and navigate through tricky weather conditions more efficiently, even if it doesn’t encourage sporty driving as some might expect.
Design and Comfort
In terms of aesthetics and comfort, Volvo has spared no effort. The interior feels like a plush cocoon, offering two main seating configurations:
- 6-Seater: Featuring captain’s chairs in the second row for a more premium feel.
- 7-Seater: Maintaining a versatile 40/20/40 split-bench for families that need more flexibility. The bench even includes a pop-up booster seat in the center section.
The third-row seats are better than those in the XC90, providing more leg and headroom, although perhaps still not up to par with Rivian’s backseat.
Unique Features
The front bucket seats are designed with Volvo’s hallmark comfort but suffer from some design quirks. Seat adjustments are controlled through a cumbersome one-knob solution integrated into the touchscreen, which can be a bit fiddly and disengaging.
Other cost-cutting measures are evident, such as:
- Rear Window Switches: Moved from door to touchscreen.
- Mirror and Wheel Adjustments: Now found deep within touchscreen menus.
- Hazard Buttons: Also moved to touchscreen access.
Cutting-Edge Technology
One of the standout features is the lidar sensor mounted prominently above the windshield, provided by Luminar. This, in combination with radar and camera sensors, enhances the vehicle’s collision detection capabilities. The data is processed by an Nvidia-supplied onboard computer, about the size of an Etch-A-Sketch, running the vehicle’s numerous smart systems.
The EX90 also includes a 14.5-inch touchscreen running Google-powered software facilitated by the Snapdragon Cockpit Platforms and graphics from Epic Games’ Unreal Engine. This provides an intuitive, zero-layer interface that prioritizes navigation, phone, and media controls seamlessly.
Sound System and Interior Quality
The optional $3,200 Bowers & Wilkins sound system is nothing short of stellar, even without playing Dolby Atmos content. Future updates will include an Abbey Road Studios setting, designed to replicate the audio environment of the iconic studios.
The interior materials are sustainably sourced. Options include:
- Nordico: A high-quality leather substitute made from renewable resources.
- Wool Blend Fabric: Certified sheep-friendly and combined with recycled polymers, offering a premium feel.
Practicalities
The range is also competitive with around 300 miles for both motor versions when fitted with 20-22 inch wheels, edging higher to 310 miles with 21-inch wheels. While the Rivian R1S and Tesla Model X slightly exceed these numbers, the EX90 offers fast charging up to 250 kilowatts. However, it still relies on the CCS network until Volvo transitions to NACS.
Pricing and Final Thoughts
Starting prices for the EX90 are set at $81,290 for the Twin Motor Plus trim, climbing to $85,640 for the Ultra trim. The Twin Motor Performance adds an extra $5,000 to either package. Considering the car’s luxury build, it does seem to justify its price, especially with leasing options offering a $7,500 discount.
In summary, the 2025 Volvo EX90 brings a new level of luxury, performance, and safety to electric family SUVs. If you’ve been waiting for a high-end, 7-seat electric vehicle, your wait may be over.
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Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi
