### Volvo EX90: A New Premier Electric SUV with Notable Features and Initial Hurdles
Volvo has consistently been at the forefront of automotive safety and technological advancement, and its latest foray into the electric vehicle (EV) sector is no different. The brand-new Volvo EX90, a three-row electric SUV, is poised to become the flagship EV for the brand, marking a substantial leap forward in Volvo’s electrification roadmap. Nevertheless, like many advanced technologies, the EX90 is accompanied by a blend of remarkable features and initial challenges.
#### A Unique Approach to Electrification
In contrast to several automakers that embark on their EV journey with high-end, pricier models, Volvo has adopted a distinct strategy. The company initially concentrated on developing smaller, more budget-friendly electric vehicles, including the Volvo C40 Recharge and the EX30 SUV. Now, Volvo is set to launch its flagship EV, the EX90, anticipated to arrive in the U.S. market by year’s end.
The EX90 is constructed on a completely new platform specifically engineered for larger EVs, a platform also utilized by other brands under the Geely group, such as the Polestar 3. The EX90 is somewhat longer than the Polestar 3 and features a three-row seating arrangement, accommodating either six or seven passengers based on the selection between a bench or captain’s chairs for the middle row.
#### The Good: Design, Powertrain, and Comfort
The Volvo EX90 showcases an attractive, well-balanced design with subtle creased lines, particularly around the rear wheel area. Inside, the SUV is thoughtfully designed with numerous storage compartments, grocery bag hooks, cup holders, and USB-C ports. The interior can also be opted in a wool option, a daring choice for the North American market, but one that introduces a sense of elegance and sustainability.
Two powertrain configurations are offered for the EX90. The base model, starting at $79,995, includes a Twin Motor setup with a collective output of 402 hp (300 kW) and 568 lb-ft (770 Nm) of torque. The enhanced Twin Motor Performance variant, retailing at $84,995, offers 509 hp (380 kW) and 671 lb-ft (910 Nm) of torque. Both versions utilize a 111 kWh battery pack, with an EPA-estimated range of 310 miles (499 km). The EX90 can recharge from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes when using a DC fast charger, making it a practical option for long journeys.
The EX90 also delivers a seamless and comfortable ride, particularly when equipped with the optional $4,350 Ultra pack, which includes active air suspension and massaging seats. The adaptive air suspension effectively addresses the SUV’s substantial 5,688-lb (2,580 kg) curb weight, yielding a luxurious ride at highway speeds.
#### The Bad: Absent Features and Tight Third Row
Despite its numerous advantages, the EX90 has its flaws. One of the most prominent issues is that several of the vehicle’s advanced features are not yet fully functional. For instance, the Luminar lidar system, intended to enhance the SUV’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), is currently only collecting data for Volvo engineers. The complete implementation of this system, along with additional ADAS features like front cross-traffic alerts and curve speed assistant, is expected to be finished sometime next year through a software update.
Moreover, the EX90’s capability to charge your home or autonomously schedule its own charging at optimal times is not yet operational, nor is the plug-and-charge feature designed to streamline the charging experience. Even basic functionalities like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are absent at launch, although Volvo has assured that these will be incorporated in a future software update.
Another drawback is the EX90’s third-row seating. Although the SUV is marketed as a three-row vehicle, the third-row space is cramped, even by the norms of other seven-seat SUVs. It’s suitable for young children, but adults may find it uncomfortable, particularly on lengthy trips.
#### The Ugly: Software Issues and Reliability Worries
Perhaps the most worrisome aspect of the EX90 is the multitude of software issues and reliability challenges faced during initial test drives. The vehicle’s phone-as-a-key feature, which utilizes ultra-wideband technology to detect the owner’s proximity, has been unreliable, resulting in instances where the vehicle would not start. Additional problems included the active driving assistant failing to operate on certain roads, the steering wheel’s capacitive sensors not picking up the driver’s grip, and the air suspension acting unpredictably.
These issues indicate that the EX90 may not yet be prepared for prime time, and prospective buyers should be ready for the likelihood of encountering software bugs and additional complications until Volvo rolls out further updates.
#### Conclusion: A Promising yet Incomplete Flagship
The Volvo EX90 is an ambitious and promising addition to
