2024 Volvo V90 Cross Country Review
Intro
For those who appreciate the versatility of an SUV but aren’t quite ready to give up the refinement and handling of a sedan, the Volvo V90 Cross Country presents itself as the ideal middle ground. It’s a rugged, all-road-capable wagon that delivers a luxurious driving experience without compromising on practicality. The 2024 model carries forward Volvo’s commitment to electrification with a mild hybrid system and retains its timeless Scandinavian design.
Thanks to Volvo Canada, I had one week to test drive the 2024 Volvo V90 Cross Country. Below is my unbiased review.
Exterior
The V90 Cross Country commands attention with its sleek yet assertive stance. Unlike traditional wagons, it sits higher off the ground, giving it an adventurous character while maintaining an elegant silhouette. The long hood, sculpted side panels, and signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights contribute to its refined aesthetic. The rear is equally well-executed, with vertical taillights that frame the tailgate, giving the V90 an instantly recognizable look on the road.
The Ultimate trim, which I tested, rides on optional 21-inch alloy wheels that enhance its aggressive stance. Standard models come with 19-inch wheels, while the Ultimate trim gets 20-inch alloys, but if you want a bit more flair, the larger wheels make a noticeable difference. Roof rails add a practical touch for those who need extra cargo capacity for outdoor adventures. A range of sophisticated paint colors, including the new hues for 2024, ensures there’s a shade to match every taste.
Interior
Inside, the V90 Cross Country is a sanctuary of minimalism and luxury. Volvo’s Scandinavian roots are evident in the clean dashboard layout, high-quality materials, and meticulous attention to detail. Every surface feels carefully curated, from the soft-touch leather upholstery to the open-pore wood trim. The Ultimate trim takes it up a notch with ventilated and massaging front seats, rear-door sunshades, and a crystal gear selector, which adds an extra layer of sophistication.
Seating is plush and supportive, with ample adjustability to find the perfect driving position. The front seats offer more legroom than most competitors, ensuring long-haul comfort, while rear-seat passengers may find legroom slightly tighter. However, headroom remains generous thanks to the straight roofline. A panoramic sunroof, standard across both trims, floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the open and airy feel.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Volvo has long been synonymous with safety, and the V90 Cross Country is no exception. Both trims come equipped with an extensive suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and a highway driving assistant. A driver’s knee airbag and whiplash-prevention seats further enhance occupant protection.
The surround-view camera system is particularly useful, providing a clear view of the vehicle’s surroundings when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces. However, some safety functions can be overly sensitive, occasionally issuing alerts when no real danger is present. Despite this, the V90 Cross Country remains one of the safest luxury wagons on the market.
Driving Experience
The V90 Cross Country is powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine with both supercharging and turbocharging, paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This setup produces 295 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
Acceleration is smooth and linear, with the supercharger providing an immediate boost before the turbocharger takes over for sustained power delivery. The mild hybrid system contributes to efficiency and provides an extra push during acceleration. Passing power on the highway is more than adequate, and the transmission shifts seamlessly.
On the road, the V90 Cross Country impresses with its well-balanced handling and planted feel. Steering is precise, and the suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections. However, the ride can feel firm, particularly with the optional 21-inch wheels and low-profile tires. Opting for the air suspension ($2,350) helps smooth things out, making for a more comfortable experience.
The AWD system prioritizes the front wheels but can send power to the rear when needed, ensuring stability in adverse weather conditions. An off-road mode is available for tackling rougher terrain, though this wagon is best suited for gravel roads and light trails rather than serious off-roading.
The V90 Cross Country is rated for 10.7 L/100 km in the city, 8.1 L/100 km on the highway, and a combined 9.5 L/100 km. During my cold-weather test week, I averaged 12.0 L/100 km, which is slightly higher than the official figures but expected given winter conditions. Premium fuel is required, which adds to ownership costs.
Cargo Space & Storage
One of the V90 Cross Country’s biggest advantages over traditional luxury sedans is its cargo capacity. With the rear seats up, it offers 551 L of storage space, expanding to 1,517 L with the seats folded down. While this isn’t class-leading, it’s still more than sufficient for weekend getaways, grocery runs, or outdoor gear.
Volvo has thoughtfully included grocery bag hooks in the cargo area, a small but highly useful touch often missing in SUVs. The hands-free power tailgate adds convenience when loading heavy items, and the roof rails provide additional cargo-carrying options for those who need them.
Conclusion
The 2024 Volvo V90 Cross Country blends luxury, practicality, and all-weather capability in a stylish package. Its elegant design, premium interior, and comprehensive safety features make it a standout in the dwindling wagon segment. The infotainment system has a slight learning curve, and the ride can feel firm with larger wheels, but these are minor trade-offs for what is otherwise an outstanding vehicle. With a starting price of $72,200 and an as-tested price of $87,545, the V90 Cross Country is competitively positioned against premium rivals. For those who crave the refinement of a luxury car with the versatility of an SUV, this Volvo is a compelling choice.
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