2024 Volvo EX90 Hands On First Look! (AKA sort of the XC90 EV?)

Volvo's all-new and all-electric EC90 is almost here and it looks to be what so many have been waiting for: a 3-row European luxury SUV that just so happens to be electric. Rather than going for an egg-shaped body ala Tesla and Mercedes, Volvo has re-imagined the form of the popular XC90 as a boxy 7-seat EV people mover. Volvo is planning on two power levels: 408 HP and 517 and "around 300 miles of range" (likely with the lower power level. The interior is the height of Scandinavian chic and since it'll be built in South Carolina, the base versions are likely to qualify for at least some of the federal tax credit.
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[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Quick note: 516 HP is the European spec output, in the USA it's 496 HP.

[@luiselapostolfeliz2421]

Hi Alex, nice Volvo EX90 I like the way it looks but so far as far as specs go, Volvo hasn't carved them in stone. There's still a lot of X axis, y axis and Z values that Volvo hasn't solved for now and it's a MISTERY.

[@melluzi]

@@luiselapostolfeliz2421 EV horsepowers don't mean anything (let's just remember Tesla Model S Plaid 88th place in Nordschleife). Even according to the official specs it's slower than my 310 HP gas crossover. And even if it was quick indeed, we'll see them in the right lane between trucks anyway. Just like any other EV.

[@yhk1977]

I wonder why it’s Detuned for the US? Hmmm perhaps they will upcharge as an OTA update?

[@rasmusansin3273]

@@melluzi That comparison doesn't make any sense. Your crossover doesn't have a battery, and more importantly, it's MUCH smaller than the EX90.

[@yhk1977]

Thanks Alex! You are the First one to actually show the 3rd row space and also glad to see that vented and massage seats are available 👍🏼 hope 2nd row captain’s chair will follow.

[@anoopmathew82]

This is what I was looking for as well! Alex is awesome (and glad Volvo let him get back there unlike everyone at CES)

[@mmjackk667]

They know how to build them in South Carolina. It looks super clean with tightly gapped body lines.This EV should be one of the leaders of its segment. Volvo makes great looking and driving, reliable cars. You can't go wrong ordering this one.

[@naveenthemachine]

That thing looks really handsome and very restrained yet elegant.

[@chiemekaa]

Those were the first words that came to mind. So unlike what Tesla and Mercedes are offering.

[@nc3826]

which reduces aerodynamic efficiency

[@arhamkhakwani5851]

@@nc3826 hmm not exactly. I mean look at the EQS from Mercedes. It’s relatively conservative although not as much as Volvo yet they have one of the most aerodynamic vehicles out there. And yes for sure, you can definitely make the argument for your side. Good example being the BZ4X

[@nc3826]

lmao EQS drag coefficient of 0.20 EX90 drag coefficient of 0.29 youTube wannabe experts SMH

[@chiemekaa]

@@nc3826 The EQS is a sedan, the EX90 an SUV. A Cd of 0.29 is very good for an SUV.

[@nc3826]

Alex, thank you for also posting your full EV videos on the AoA channel. For viewers, like me who want to watch all your content. But who do not want to inadvertently, watch it twice on different channels. Posting all of the content on this channel is best.

[@b286guy]

Overall, this looks magnificent. Absolutely love the interior, with the beautiful cloth seats that look so inviting along with the wood trim and matte finishes everywhere. Very minimal piano black plastic crap. Hooray!

[@andyhung424able]

I currently have a non-electrified XC90. I love everything about the EX90, except the price. I may just have to wait until EX60 when it comes out.

[@sstinson89]

Those mechanized headlights are beautiful, but the only thing I can think about is a $5,000 - $10,000 invoice to replace them, in the event they get damaged or fail. As much as I like them, I'd probably order the trim with non-motorized versions and save the potential headache

[@legambaz]

Once it's right, it's right. Lots of passengers compartment design was brought over from 1st Gen XC90.

[@rachaad]

I'm sold with child bolster build in. That a genius move Volvo !

[@yhk1977]

Yup. They are an innovative company and have been doing this for years 👍🏼 very child friendly.

[@JoshuaKahr]

Had two built in with my ‘06 xc70. I don’t know why every car doesn’t have them by now. Very useful. And my girls loved them. Made them feel like “big kids”.

[@incufan32]

This has been the SUV on my wish list for a decade

[@jwxujerry]

All I want is a 400 mi range electric Honda Odyssey

[@spencer476]

Alex - I really enjoy your channels (all 3 of them!) and I think you do a great job of being hype-free and reasonably objective. That said, I have one burning question - do you really ever put a half gallon of milk in your center console? I have been driving for 40 years and I have never put milk (or any groceries for that matter) in my center console. I am trying to figure out who is the outlier here, you or me.😂 Love the work you do and thanks. I bought my EV based partially on your review (i4 eDrive 40) and absolutely love it. Incidentally, I drove to the mountains and back yesterday for a total of 263 miles round trip. No charging. I still have an indicated 47 miles of range left. 310 miles is almost 30 above the EPA estimate, so pretty happy there. The longer range is probably due to the 22.1 KW of power I regenerated along the way. Thanks again.

[@mra4107]

Great, thorough review, as always! I am very interested in this car. The proportions are classy, functional, and timeless. I am a bit confused about some of the design decisions, though: no overhead grab handles, no roller blinds for the rear door windows, no powered sun shade for the panoramic roof, too many functions on the left indicator stalk (lights, turn signals, wipers, etc.). Hopefully, Volvo will address these issues for the production version.

[@TheDiymovies]

I am loving the style of this, Volvo is becoming my go to aspirational brand. Thank you for such a thorough deep dive on the car!

[@cvnis957]

I hope the amber turn signal comes to the US.

[@yhk1977]

I don’t see why not. We have amber front turn signals in the US so rear shouldn’t be a DOT issue either. 🤞🏻

[@cvnis957]

@@yhk1977 In the US, the current generation XC90 (SPA) does not have amber rear turn signals which makes me wonder if this new generation won't either.

[@yhk1977]

@@cvnis957 but also in the US the newer model xc40 has rear amber turn signals. So there’s that.

[@cvnis957]

@@yhk1977 Yeah, it seems odd to me that some models do and some don't. Especially considering the XC90 euro cars have amber in the rear, why downgrade the US cars?

[@yhk1977]

@@cvnis957 exactly! I’m pretty confident ex90 will have amber turn signals. What I don’t like are US amber reflectors. 😝

[@TalismanPHX]

Excellent overview as usual, Alex. Love this Volvo, no gimmicky stuff, just an intelligent useful design. Now to come up with $80 grand!

[@juliekortus5577]

Alex - You‘re the BEST auto reviewer out there. Fast, thorough, and incredibly insightful. Two questions that are BIG misses in my current Volvo: Will those front headrests be adjustable? Will the visors be extendable or moveable to allow blocking sun across the ENTIRE side windows? Current headrests make my head jut forward like a turtle - really uncomfortable and infuriatingly not adjustable. Also really disappointing that on a $70k+ vehicle, the visor doesn’t even block sun across the whole side window.

[@nc3826]

Alex, thank you for presenting that battery integration has pros and cons. Almost all channels only mention the pros. But there are two types of integration. On the module to pack level, and on the cell to module level. It would be nice if you could differentiate them in the future.

[@andyhung424able]

Finally the Volvo has designed a space to store the roller-styled cargo cover when it is not in use. Now, we just need to confirm if Volvo is finally willing to make the sun visor extendable.

[@tophlovr]

I love the cloth on these seats! I wish other MFGs would put weaved textiles like this in more vehicles! I would choose this over leather any day. It looks so clean and tranquil.

[@MediKombi]

Honestly I dig it. Thanks for doing such a comprehensive review, Alex.

[@joelbolton7252]

Perfect overview Alex! This looks to be a winner for Volvo. Solid style, great interior and battery tech, and built right here in the US, sign me up!

[@RG-ld8wv]

Lol

[@KaloqnBankov]

I honestly hate it when companies just put everything on that big screen, I do really enjoy some of the features to be a regular buttons or nobs. In my opinion the fans and heating/AC temp are such an example.

[@Crazyuncle1]

As a big admirer of the XC90 the EX90 left me cold, at first. Much had to do with the reviewers and the use of smartphones for cameras. Now, Alex you have done this new car justice with your excellent camera and knowledge and description of it. I’m starting to really like the EX90 even though it won’t be available with Napa leather.

[@JackSmith-qi7dr]

Have not seen a SUV EV that pleased my sense of yesterday meeting tomorrow until - now. Beautiful. The backlit wood and the vegan seats are brilliant.

[@konstantin132]

Thanks Alex! Volvo going forward as well. For me (and kids) 3rd row with ventilation is really what needs.

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

This vehicle is beautiful! Great video Alex.

[@TonyJunior123]

Great mix between a conventional and a modern design without going over the top like other EVs which basically look like spaceships. I wish more manufacturers would take this approach.

[@guillermopaniagua4723]

Great and thorough as always. Alex is always spot on. The new Volvo is stunningly beautiful very impressed by Volvo over the past 10 years their cars have looked stunning.

[@RundFyrkant]

The bodylines, the lights and the wheels all looks amazingly clean and good. Can't wait to get of one of these out one the road.😊

[@danishviking6254]

Wow! This is the best EX90 review I’ve watched. (I’ve watched quite a few)

[@ma7mgte]

Spy pics show a 3 row version of the Cadillac Lyriq. Will be interesting to compare this to that upcoming car

[@smallbusinessdreams]

My delayed R1S better hurry!!! This vehicle is what my family needs.

[@robertporter1984]

I live in a Moderate Snowy/Rainy Spring area of the US and have to have a rear wiper to get the snow off and when i stop the rain that falls on the window. I cant wait for the defroster to melt snow. And i own a car that i notice when i drive in the rain, the rain doesn't really stay on the rear window if imoving .but when i stop i can barely see once the rain gets on the window. The wind wont get much of it off.

[@nc3826]

Alex, 800 volt architecture cuts in half the amperage.... increasing efficiency, reducing heat and resulting in increased battery longevity.... even if it only increases DC fast charging times marginally, for moderately sized battery packs...

[@joshharrison1160]

If Volvo updated the XC90 with the interior / exterior of the EX90, I'd favor a PHEV XC90. But if they continue to build the current body style for the XC90, I'd probably make the jump to the EX90 because it's truly beautiful inside and out

[@DJIDroneTravel]

Finally someone cares to make a electric car for family people with 7 seats ❤❤❤

[@ivanlowjones]

I think Xe90 would've been a catchy name.

[@jasonhillgiant]

Really excited for this one. My next vehicle will likely be either a base EX90 or a loaded Buzz. It will depend on the features. I’m not a fan of staggered tires as it makes rotating a pain. The LiDAR binnacle cries out for either a “TAXI” sticker or “NOT FOR HIRE”.

[@jasonhillgiant]

Also hope Volvo gets CarPlay sorted.

[@Lascarnn]

Can you please next time also use metric units? :) Great review, thanks!

[@pva527]

Finally an SUV looking SUV!!!! This design is what people have been waiting for !!! Other companies have been building wierdo looking cars and calling them SUVs… This thing will sell !!!

[@laloajuria4678]

14:56 omg thats bad....

[@ContrarianDC_KAF]

Hopefully it's just an early prototype...

[@laloajuria4678]

@@ContrarianDC_KAF it is. But it doesn't instill confidence when it runs worse than a budget phone...

[@nc3826]

Good luck, Googling what "prototype" means....

[@user-vd3nj2sh3z]

Great review, perfect car and nice shirt!

[@joshuaychung]

I just pre-ordered one! It will be a race between this car and a Kia EV9 to see which one is more practical for my family.

[@yhk1977]

Also very curious about the Kia ev9.

[@Marco-ce8kr]

Wow! 👀such a awesome car. Volvo is always something special

[@kevinnguyen9268]

Dang after seeing this I'm not sure if I should go for the Cadillac Lyriq which is like 72k maxed out or this which may exceed 80k. Any thoughts anyone? I love how this car has all the vehicle to load functions, the design interior looks quite nice though not sure how about a center touch screen. 7 seats is not needed for me but I like how all seats seem usable. Think charging is better than the Lyriq but not sure.

[@maddyma4293]

I was there yesterday :) obviously Alex got there first (no crowds)

[@willriley1619]

I like the wheels. A modern version of the rims you would find on an older turbo model.

[@kencoleman8929]

Great video, looking forward to more!

[@drewfoster4607]

Love the new styling, I just wonder why they didn’t have a sunroof that opens. Blows my mind why it isn’t included.

[@Tomm9y]

It would good to know if it has the ability to reverse up to a trailer hitch automatically, it's really helpful. Also, hope they can increase the towing weight limits.

[@sadynasty]

amazing...class...practicality.. Grace ...power...❤

[@anoopmathew82]

Alex, I have a deposit on one but also have one on a Rivian R1S. Right now these two are at the top of the list to replace my wife's aging MDX. Others on the short list are the BMW X7 and Marc GLS but neither of those have completely sold both of us. Hoping the EX90 is the goldilocks option for us

[@msh8816]

Rivian...? Have you heard about the vampire drain? Thank goodness i didn't buy a rivian.

[@anoopmathew82]

@@msh8816 the battery drain while stationary? I've seen some anecdotal stories, but others saying theirs didn't have the issue. Will be curious to see what percentage have this issue. Always things to lookout for with startups

[@smallbusinessdreams]

​@Msh 88 the vampire drain has been fixed with a software update.

[@jwxujerry]

I put a deposit for R1S for launch version but eventually cancelled and bought a XC90 recharge. In terms of design, there is no comparison. Volvo cars have the look. Volvo is also more advanced in automation technology. Another big factor is service. For Ravian, service might be a challenge because of limited number of dealers.

[@Elricky124]

Mouth watering. How much will this expensive beast be?

[@amigajoe]

Separate modules is the way to go!. And it would give EV’s a better reputation as you could get away from the negative press of having to replace an entire $15,000 battery pack.

[@Kurre.]

It's a very compelling car! Such a shame that it's 108k €:(

[@GA-wq8xq]

How does it compare to the Rivian R1S. As that is the nearest competitor in terms of size and design.

[@yhk1977]

Curious to see what the Camera app does? Maybe dashcam mode?

[@youtubecarspottersguide1]

like it but as heavy as EV s are 3rows and 7 people range is going to go down ?

[@Peizxcv]

Looks like the best full size luxury SUV for the sensible / professional type

[@MattGarcyaDC]

those seats look comfy

[@EnHacore1]

Looks great, very well designed. I like that they don't MIND putting the LiDAR at the top. I can't understand why Tesla refuses to go with a LIDAR, I know too much information can be a problem, but at least it should be used as a secondary fallback mechanism. Now if I could get this Volvo with the batteries and motors from Tesla, it would be the perfect car 😁

[@funkmasterfong]

I love the design of the EX 30 and this EX 90 But the former is much too small for my body and and the later is much too big for my home parking space. I wonder if they are going to make in between sizes, like ex40.

[@baldisaerodynamic9692]

i dont even want to imagine what a minor accident on the front end will cost to replace, or get totalled out. those headlights are prob 5k each, and they will break. that instrument cluster looks tiny and microscopic. i really wish these car makers would stop with the glass roofs as standard equipment and make it totally optional. i like my car completely dark as much as possible. this being built in a brand new factory in SC, i can imagine the reliability and build quality being potentially suspect for the first model runs.

[@BradInStLouis]

Replacing a headlight assembly on my 2009 Mazda CX-9 is $2500. You would need a new auto loan refinance on this car. Fortunately, The car has so much tech you can’t wreck it.

[@asselinpower]

Can t wait to buy winter tires for that size 😆

[@rightlanehog3151]

Alex, Why am I paying those sky high subscription fees to get access to the EV Buyers Guide channel when you are posting EV videos here? 🤨

[@nickolasmazzara127]

I’m happy to see that the EX90 gets a much needed bump in range over the XC/C40 model(s). I found it strange that Volvo’s first two EVs had such drastically lower range when compared to the Polestar 2. Granted the XC/C40 models aren’t remotely as aerodynamic as the Polestar, but the Volvo’s getting ~50 miles less than the 2 is a bit ridiculous.

[@MDKN22]

Well, part of the reason why there is poor range is because the platform was designed primarily for an ICE, with the ability to swap in EV parts. A dedicated EV platform allows the manufacturer to use a nearly infinite amount of space to get the most range they can. You can only collect so much space in an ICE platform that was converted into an EV platform.

[@nickolasmazzara127]

@@MDKN22 I thought so too, but I was curious, so I looked it up: all three of the XC40, C40, and 2 are built on the Volvo/Geely compact modular architecture (CMA) platform. Also, strangely enough, this new EX90 is not on a dedicated EV platform either. It is on Volvo’s SPA2 platform, which has been used for everything from the S60 to the XC90.

[@amigajoe]

Amber for turn signals is the way to go. I don’t understand why the US doesn’t require them.

[@DarenBrantley]

This really hits everything I care about as a dad, way better than the 1000 hp stuff Tesla is doing. Put a deposit down so hopefully I’ll have one by the time my Y lease is up middle of next year.

[@FuncleChuck]

I don’t need 3 rows but I do need the space that a large SUV provides. I’d take an EVan but those apparently don’t exist outside of commercial vehicles.

[@samaraiza]

Just wish the color options were better. Can only choose black, white, dark gray, medium gray, silver gray, blue gray, or sand :( Would like to see a maroon or forest green option. Currently own a pine peak XC60 with the brown interior and love it. Lara Croft vibes. Would have liked to have traded in for an exciting color. Maroon with white accents sounds fun. Ted Baker vibes. Current options are boring and safe. A dark red with bronze gold would totally pull off an Iron Man look. Oh well. Still gonna get one. I’ll just die a little.

[@mehrajmohan173]

Best narration

[@ptantfan]

Great presentation! Not a single “uh” or “um” throughout. However, the interior cannot be ‘fully vegan’ if the seats are made with Wool.

[@samctm]

Gorgeous.

[@mrx3464]

I would love to see EX60.

[@peterfessier9780]

I'm surprised they didn't go with an EX60 before they did this. I'd think that would be the more popular size. The XC 40 recharge is a bit small and not really very efficient. They will be building this in the USA but it's too expensive to qualify for the Tax credits.

[@ayushmalpeddi2793]

Not EV enough supply to meet demand. EX60 would have even more demand which isn’t necessary for them right now

[@yhk1977]

Volvo states it will be under $80k for some models. So it will qualify for EV credit, unless your joint income is over $300k.

[@DarenBrantley]

Definitely an issue of volume ramp. They’ll sell fewer of these at a profit premium and work out their manufacturing processes for the more volume sellers.

[@mathiasskogseth4139]

It's most likely going to be either rwd or awd

[@kurtpenner2362]

Alex, does those front seat headrests adjust up down, angle forward and back? They look completely fixed in place, which seems a problem to me.

[@MDKN22]

In typical Volvo fashion, it'll probably be fixed in place. I never thought I'd ever have a problem with them, but they are actually in a perfect position for me.

[@Ikejiaku]

Loving it!

[@trinitybricks9522]

And the waiting time would be just 10,000 years, that's why I bought a Tesla(waiting time was 10 days) I was fed up with waiting time on Rav4 Prime(3 years and dealer incompetency in ordering and changing the order based on perception of tax breaks which threw me way back in the line also not sure how much the dealer would have marked it up, since he did not mention the final price while ordering and waiting with 1k deposit, which I also had a hard time getting it back after I bought a Tesla).

[@CCU_DM]

Just my opinion - but a new EV coming into the market (especially at the prices Volvo is asking) needs to offer at least the following three things: a) A heat pump for better winter range b) 350kW capable charging c) 300+ miles EPA range.

[@danjones8694]

Prices of cars are absolutely crazy. Some brands will fold if not careful.

[@michaelfletcher1224]

Slides “foe ward” or forward?

[@r5LgxTbQ]

will you be checking out the EX30 next week?

[@vanessagordon1343]

This car looks so sharp

[@trenton737]

I'm glad Volvo is doing fabric seats

[@hynsum]

No shark-fin? Did Volvo hide it inside lidar sensor up-ftont or elsewhere?

[@O990l6mh]

After owning the XC60 T8 just full of problems I said never a Volvo again and went to the Ford Explorer Plug in hybrid which is just awesome. But the electric Explorer seems to be pushed back again and again and the new EX90 I have to admit does look really promising.

[@cbatiau2528]

The main problems with the new XC60 T8 (ER version) have to do with the software and lack of physical buttons/dials.... The EX90 will make that 10x worse...

[@O990l6mh]

@@cbatiau2528 Oh I wish it was just that... The list of problems was long. Everything from air suspension failing to on-board charger failing to windscreen wipers chafing the hood to software freezing and the list goes on and on.

[@BTC909]

Move the rear wiper up. Put a donut spare in the Frunk.

[@davidtay3373]

Ironic that while Volvo is adding more sensors, Tesla seems to be removing them (e.g. no USS on 3/Y's as of last year). Is Volvo planning to refresh their smaller models (e.g. the 40's series EVs) with the same tech and styling as this new EX90, for those who don't want a large 7 seater SUV?

[@AdamJakowenko]

Can't imagine what the take rate will be on those wool seats. Most people buying this are likely to have a family, and nobody with a kid or a dog would ever want wool in a car.

[@yhk1977]

Considering if they are stain resistant, it should be ok. Too bad they don’t offer ventilated seating for the wool. But I was told it does stay cooler than nordico.

[@k.j.hulander2204]

Arguably, wool is more stain resistant than leather…

[@rondillon6746]

Take the mirrors away if there are cameras in place. Bring on the Precept, this coming from a xc90 owner (19…22 currently). How about bolts of lightning coming from Thor’s hammers being an EV and all.

[@deansmits006]

10-80% in 30 minutes is about 150kw average... Not bad, though I thought Volvo would do better. Still, lovely wagon, I like

[@BradInStLouis]

Timeline update? Is this car, from a software standpoint “vaporware”? A “moon shot”? Speaking of vapor, you did not show the wipers.. at the tip are tiny sprayers to intermittently (as they pass by) spray the LIDAR visor. HOW COULD YOU MISS THAT 😂

[@Anhedonis]

Would it be more or less confusing to call it XE 90?

[@shararihamideh1608]

It's a bit too confusing since it sounds alot like xc90 which is the gad powered version of this car

[@yungchan770]

15:02 | Already NOT wanting it because of the screen responses

[@yhk1977]

Question. Does it have power auto folding side mirrors?

[@rahsheik6538]

My 2017 does so I would imagine yes.

[@yhk1977]

@@rahsheik6538 I agree but I haven’t seen it fold in any videos and the mirror arm seems to extend out pretty long.

[@whoeverwhoever400]

The sensor on the roof makes the car look like a taxi. lol

[@Slayer-33]

Can I HAZ one?

[@GlitterGuru]

I wasn't a fan of this new design direction at first, but it's growing on me. I'm going to miss the current interior though, this new one simply isn't as warm or elegant.