I have an affinity for Scandinavian things; Helly Hansen, Roxette, and the Norwegian pavilion at EPCOT to name just a few. So it’s nice to see an all-new Volvo emerging, definitely a car company on the rise. And it’s lead by a stunningly beautiful, fresh take on the 3 row SUV. This is the 2016 XC90.
The previous generation XC90 lingered for an unheard of 12 model years without a complete redesign. But lo and behold, our patience has been rewarded with the most groundbreaking vehicle the Swedish-based automaker has ever built in its nearly 90 year history. Volvo has had plenty of time to sweat the details and it shows.
Fundamentally, this XC90 serves the same purpose as the one before; a sport utility capable of transporting 5 to 7. But that’s just about where the parallels end. It starts with a design of elegance and strength befitting its Scandinavian roots. This R-Design trim is for those who seek a sportier, dynamic and expressive experience with increased visual appeal and enhanced attitude. Furthering the eye candy is this choice of Bursting Blue Metallic extra charge paint and the optional 22” wheels. The R-Design treatment costs $4,000 and bundles 16 unique, mostly aesthetic features including Active Bending LED headlights, a front spoiler, special grille and contoured front buckets with suede inserts that preserve Volvo’s reputation as having the best seats in the biz. The attention to detail is exquisite with small Swedish flags sewn into the seats and even a nod to Volvo’s pioneering of the 3 point safety belt. Sure, there’s an Inscription model if you’d rather a more buttoned up luxury experience but for me, this R-Design look elevates the XC90 to legendary status.
This is a fully loaded T6 R Design; more powerful than the T5 and without the plug of the T8. And it’s unlike any Volvo to come before it. Absolutely nothing in here resembles previous Volvos I’ve driven. It’s a clean sheet redesign in the truest form, exuding a sense of luxury that’ll have you seeing Jaguar.
