Volvo V90 Cross Country comes in an estate or a station-wagon form. Based on the S90 sedan, it flaunts 210mm ground clearance. With an ability to handle rough roads and at times go off road, the V90 Cross Country comes equipped with an all-wheel drive. Almost identical looking as the S90 till the rear doors, the V90 Cross Country flaunts signature Volvo tail lamp cluster, which adds an amount of dynamic appeal to the already striking looks. If the mild bumper cladding and 20-inch wheels provide a tough stance, the ride of the estate has been raised by 60mm. Featuring adaptive air suspension at the rear, the V90 Cross Country brings a breath of fresh air as far as estates go.
Cosy and comfortable
Welcoming, cosy and comfortable, the cabin of the V90 Cross Country is similar to that of the S90 sedan. It aligns with the minimal theme, and has a dash with a large 9-inch touchscreen at the centre. The touchscreen replaces most switches, including air-con controls. On either side of the touchscreen are tall, slim air-con vents. Unlike the S90, the estate comes with woven aluminium trim on the dash and the doors. The shade (light brown) of the leather upholstery is prone to accumulating dust rather quickly, so it may be worth opting for other shades.
Along with the steering wheel, the seats are heated and electrically adjustable for lumber support and bolstering at front. The squabs are extendable. There’s cooling and an effective massage feature too. A bit firm, the rear seats are comfortable. Head, knee and shoulder room are in good supply. Thigh support is not great, but two people can sit comfortably. The large transmission tunnel is likely to make the third person uncomfortable. At the rear is a built-in jump seat for small children. It can be electrically released to generate more storage space.
Good storage space
Storage space is a good 560 litres. It can be increased to 1,526 litres upon folding the rear seat. Spare tyre is a space saver, and is stored under the boot. The V90 Cross Country is equipped with panoramic sunroof, 19 speakers as part of the 1,400 watt Bowers and Wilkins sound system, an electric tailgate, a head-up display, four-zone climate control, paddle shifters, and complete LED headlights with an active high beam and a bending function that follows steering inputs.
Power delivery is linear
The V90 Cross Country is powered by a new D5 2-litre diesel engine that does 235bhp and 480Nm. Power delivery is linear and devoid of any sudden spike. Building power until a little over 4000rpm, the engine gets noisy thereafter. Helping to tide over lag at lower rpm is the PowerPulse technology. It shoots compressed air into the turbo to make it spool faster. Air is stored in a canister. Exerting a strong pull from 1500rpm, the engine does show some lag when the pedal is pushed hard when starting on an incline. For most part however, turbo lag is noticed, thanks to the PowerPlus tech. The 8-speed auto transmission ensures smooth and near seamless shifts. It does seem a little slow to downshift when driving aggressively. Paddle shifters come in handy to manually over-ride.
Four driving modes — Eco, Comfort, Off-road and Dynamic — tweak the engine response as well as the steering and suspension. Engaging the off-road mode on earthen tracks channels more power to the rear wheels. Hill descent control is engaged, and the ride height increases.
For the V90 Cross Country, comfort takes precedence over sporty handling. The ride feels a bit soft. Some body roll is evident when the estate is pushed. The all-wheel drive however provides enormous grip and traction.
Verdict
Available with a safety package that includes six airbags, adaptive cruise control and radar-based system like Pilot Assist and front Collision Mitigation Support, the V90 Cross Country is priced between Rs 60 and 65 lakh and is well equipped, and has a high ground clearance.
Pros: Striking looks, high ground clearance, build quality, equipment, excellent ride.
Cons: None.
