The Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge AWD is something of a marvel. Now nearly a decade into its lifecycle, this Scandinavian flagship still turns heads and holds its own against newer rivals with quiet confidence and timeless design. It’s like that one friend who’s been wearing the same tailored coat for years—and somehow still looks better than everyone else.
Finished in sleek Onyx Black with 22-inch 5-double spoke gloss black diamond-cut wheels, our test car looked suitably commanding. Inside, the XC90 continues Volvo’s minimalist, luxury-focused aesthetic. The cabin in Blond Nappa ventilated leather, paired with Charcoal accents, feels premium and airy—a colour scheme that could easily be dubbed “the mature spec” (because nothing says “I’ve made it” like white leather you dare to sit on in jeans).
Calm, cool, and quick
The XC90 T8’s hybrid powertrain pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged and supercharged engine with an electric motor to produce 340 kW and a colossal 709 Nm of torque. Despite weighing more than 2 tons, this SUV is seriously quick. The power delivery is smooth thanks to the 8-speed automatic transmission, and the all-wheel-drive system ensures confident traction in all conditions.
Better still, the hybrid system allows for up to 73 km of pure electric driving, which is perfect for school runs, grocery trips, or impressing your EV-curious neighbours. In hybrid mode, we averaged an astounding 4.5 L/100 km—a figure that almost feels too good to be true for a three-row luxury SUV.
Cabin vibes
Inside, the XC90 remains a serene place to spend time. The Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system is a true standout—audiophiles may be tempted to live inside the car, streaming everything from Bach to Busta Rhymes just for the acoustics. There’s also a massage function for the front seats, ensuring peak relaxation even in Joburg traffic.
The active air suspension makes for a floaty, composed ride, soaking up road imperfections with ease, while the head-up display helps keep your eyes on the road. The infotainment system, however, is showing its age. It’s a bit like using a high-end phone from five years ago—still functional, but clearly a step behind. Thankfully, Google Assistant integration breathes new life into it, providing a more modern and intuitive experience that helps it keep pace with fresher rivals.
Safety first, second, and third
Volvo’s legendary dedication to safety is fully on display in the XC90 T8. From Pilot Assist (semi-autonomous driving) to adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera, the car seems to always be watching out for you. Whether you’re navigating tight parking spaces or cruising on the highway, the XC90 has your back—and sides, and front.
Verdict
At a time when many SUVs are either trying too hard or doing too little, the Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge AWD hits a sweet spot. It’s luxurious without being flashy, powerful without being thirsty, and tech-savvy without being overwhelming.
Yes, it’s getting on in years, but the XC90 has aged gracefully, like a fine Swedish whisky—smooth, strong, and refined. If you’re looking for a three-row SUV that blends eco-conscious performance, understated elegance, and Volvo’s trademark safety, this is still one of the best in the game. Pricing for the Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge AWD starts at R1,807,300.
