The sublime Volvo EX90 Ultra is the new electric gentleman’s shooting brake. It slays the chunky BMW and nondescript Mercedes in all the ways a thinking man would appreciate.
Clever old Volvo didn’t try to fix what wasn’t broken. The seven-seater bears a striking resemblance to the CX90, but its tail lights are borrowed from the EX30, and the Hammer of Thor headlights now feature a theatrical flourish. They split along a hidden central axis to reveal bright LED beams. Only the subtle badging hints at the electric marvels wrapped within.
The cabin is delicious in its simplicity, with a focus on eco-credibility. Recycled materials are tracked to ensure no dodgy antics during manufacturing. The designers considered each surface in relation to the others and the humans who will occupy the space.
The calming ambience is enhanced by Bowers & Wilkins sound and soft, comfortable seats that are heated, cooled, and equipped with massage functions—perfect for those long, tiring days on the road.
Information is controlled by voice through the Google Android Automotive system, which runs the infotainment centre. Passengers can gently select their preferred settings by voice or touch. Its intuitive nature takes some time to master, but once your mind makes the leap, everything is where you expect it to be.
The ADAS and safety features, along with all vehicle settings, are available for inspection, selection, and adjustment. The massive central tablet is complemented by a slimline driver display and a large head-up display, showing navigation, entertainment, and drive data. Apps from the Google store allow the driver to extend the vehicle’s flexibility by signing into their Google account. From there, smart home controls can be accessed—climate settings adjusted and garage doors opened as the EX90 glides into the driveway.
Other cool features include walk-away locking and a phone app. The loading lip can be raised or lowered at the press of a button, making cargo handling—or helping a lazy pooch—effortless.
Above: This Week’s VIDEO Review –2025 Volvo EX90 “BMW Killer” Launch Review – Alan Zurvas
#volvo, #volvoEX90, #volvoEV, #alanzurvas, #gaycarboys
ABOVE: Volvo EX90
The Drive:
Google OS is not to be confused with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. The former is an integrated operating system for the infotainment system, allowing menu navigation and preference setting, such as changing radio stations and saving driver profiles. The latter are phone-mirroring systems and do not interact with vehicle settings in the same way.
The EX90 Ultra hauls serious arse. Sprinting to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds is astounding for a vehicle weighing over 2,800 kg. Occasionally, the hefty battery makes itself felt, but only in the tightest of corners.
One of the most notable aspects was the complete absence of misbehaviour on speed bumps. Most EVs tackle them with all the grace of a geriatric at a buffet, but the EX90 Ultra simply wafted over them as if they were minor imperfections. Although we didn’t get a chance for a bit of dirt work, the EX90 Ultra’s on-road manners leave me in no doubt that it would caper across the worst of Australia’s back-country tracks.
The cosy cabin inspires a level of confidence in the driver that may exceed their actual ability. Highway kilometres slide by as if being viewed on a Gold Class screen—feet up, champers in hand. The EX90 Ultra is a Zen capsule of bliss.
Volvo doesn’t offer charging credits, even with the poshest models, so you might not feel quite as special as a Genesis or Audi EV owner. It makes no difference, though—the EX90 Ultra’s frisky handling makes this seven-seater feel like a nippy little city car.
The Best Bits:
The cabin is quiet, the handling exceptional, and the performance surprising to the point of shock. The SPA2 platform maximises the flat floor, allowing designers to incorporate nifty storage solutions everywhere possible.
The climate control works exceptionally well, though I suspect it might struggle on a 45°C day. To counter this, Volvo offers two internal shade options—one opaque and one with a muted translucence that maintains the airy feeling without turning passengers into roast chickens.
The ride quality, floating on twin-chambered air suspension, oozes elegance and luxury. And Volvo luxury is Scandi luxury—no frivolous quilting or acres of leather that look like a ’70s god’s-waiting-room.
It is tasteful from end to end, inside and out, and despite its size, looks svelte.
The technology is present without being intrusive. The LIDAR dome is positioned at the optimal point on the roof, working with radar, sonar, and cameras using Nvidia processing power to paint a detailed picture of the surroundings. If needed, the Volvo throws out the anchors or nudges the steering to avoid an incident. It can be sensitive, but better that than the alternative.
The sound system is phenomenal—the Bowers & Wilkins speakers alone justify the extra $10,000 over the base EX90. But that also gets you a tastier interior, an extra 80 kW of power, and the best air suspension since the fabulous Range Rover Autobiography.
Conclusion:
Volvo’s acquisition by Geely was the first of many by the Chinese carmaker, and rumours abound that Jaguar (sans Land Rover) may be its latest purchase. If true, it might bring Jaguar up to Volvo’s standard, but as it stands, Volvo’s brilliance outshines much of the market—including the Germans. The Swedes do cars like no one else on the planet, adding a touch of uniqueness without resorting to the delightful weirdness of the French. The EX90 Ultra is a gentleman’s club without the oak panelling and wingback chairs—a refined, tasteful sanctuary on wheels.
- 1610w Bowers and Wilkins sound
- LIDAR
- Google voice control
- interior space includes flat floor
- 4 AC zones
- limousine-like ride
- 2-chamber air suspension
- can squat on rear suspension to raise or lower loading area
Price:
- Plus $124,990, Ultra $134,990
- AWD Twin Motor
- Power: 300kW/770Nm, 380kW/910Nm
- Battery: 111kw
- Charging: 250kw DC max
- 0-100: 5.9 seconds, 4.9 seconds
SHORT Video Review: Lexus LC500 Convertible Roof operation. Mesmerising. Sorry about the rubbish background
@lexus, #lexuslc500convertible, #alanzurvas, #gaycarboys
#automobile #shorts #audietrongtrs #gaycarboys #alanzurvas ##shorts