
The New Volvo XC90 Hybrid SUV Needs a Total Overhaul
When I drove the 2020 Volvo XC90, I admired its sense of restraint, comfort and style inside an interior lined in lovely wool trimming. It wasn't particularly thrilling to drive, but the nice things inside the cabin compensated for its bland if capable performance.
So I eagerly anticipated my time in the 2025 Volvo XC90 T8, the plug-in hybrid version of the six- or seven-seater (depending on which seat configuration you choose). Volvo gave its 10-year-old rig an update earlier this year, adding subtle changes to things like the lines of the hood and the headlights and tail lights. It also added a new user-experience system with a larger screen and new seating configurations with sustainable upholstery options, as well as mechanical updates to the suspension and additional sound isolation in the cabin.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles

Yahoo
16 hours ago
- Yahoo
5 hurt as ambulance, police SUV crash blocks apart in Manchester
Five people were injured in nearly back-to-back crashes near Elliot Hospital involving an ambulance, a police SUV and two other cars Wednesday. An AMR ambulance and a Volvo wagon collided around 11:40 a.m. near the entrance to the hospital and the intersection of Tarrytown Road and Nelson Street, Manchester fire officials said. The ambulance was responding to a call when the collision caused the driver to lose control and the rig rolled over. Manchester Police said the ambulance was entering the intersection with its lights and siren activated when the accident happened. The two medics in the front seat of the ambulance were trapped inside, but fire crews helped them remove the front windshield so they could get out. They were taken to the hospital for evaluation. Police said the driver of the Volvo reported no injuries. While crews were working at that crash scene, a Ford Explorer driven by a Manchester Police officer collided with a Jeep Compass near the intersection of Valley and Jewett streets, just a few blocks over and near the other side of the Elliot. The Jeep rolled over and crews had to extricate the driver and a passenger who were trapped inside, fire officials said. Doors were removed from the driver's side of the Jeep. Police said the officer and the two occupants of the Jeep were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The identities of the people involved were not released. Anyone who witnessed either accident is asked to call Manchester Police at 603-668-8711.


Motor Trend
a day ago
- Motor Trend
2026 Infiniti QX60 First Drive: Keeping It Fresh?
The current-generation Infiniti QX60 hit the scene in 2021 with a fresh new look, revamped trims, and an interior that turned more than a few heads. It's been a solid win for Infiniti, quickly becoming the brand's bestselling model. But when you stack it up against other heavy-hitters in the luxury three-row SUV game—like the Acura MDX and Volvo XC90—the QX60 still has some catching up to do. Indeed, Acura in 2024 sold more than 50,000 MDXs and Volvo more than 40,000 XC90s. Infiniti? Just shy of 28,000 QX60s. The updated 2026 Infiniti QX60 probably won't dethrone the MDX or XC90 in the sales race, but the latest upgrades keep it fresh. We spent a couple of hours behind the wheel of the new 2026 QX60 Autograph model, and while the changes are subtle, they're meaningful for people eyeing this three-row luxury SUV. Think of it as a light refresh that polishes up what was already a solid package. What's Changed? The Infiniti QX60 has always been a looker, and that's no accident. For 2026, the QX60 borrows a few stylish cues from its big sibling, the newly redesigned QX80. The grille now features tilted vertical slats inspired by bamboo forests, and the quilted leather seats are stitched in a pattern that echoes a kimono wrap. There's a larger Infiniti logo up front, a redesigned front fascia, and a striking new paint color called Deep Emerald that elevates an already outstanding design. And in the top-tier Autograph trim, you'll find laser-cut, open-pore wood with metal inlays on the dash and front doors—straight from the QX80. This is a thoughtful detail that demonstrates Infiniti is willing to experiment with materials in a way that feels fresh and upscale. The QX60 Autograph trim steps up its game with a brand-new Klipsch premium audio system, packing 20 speakers throughout the cabin—including a pair tucked into each of the front headrests. It's a trick borrowed from the QX80, and the setup can reroute phone calls through the driver's speakers only, giving you a little extra privacy without muting the whole car. Also new for 2026 is the addition of Google built-in, giving the infotainment system native access to apps like Google Maps and the Play Store with no phone required. Of course, if you prefer your own device, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard across the lineup. You'll also find a pair of 12.3-inch digital displays—one serving as the gauge cluster and the other handling infotainment duties—bringing the cabin a modern touch. Behind the Wheel Under the hood, every 2026 Infiniti QX60 is powered by a 2.0-liter variable-compression turbocharged inline-four, delivering 268 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque. This engine made it into the QX60 last year after the company ditched the 3.5-liter V-6, and even though we've had our fair share of gripes with it (it also powers the smaller QX50), we're glad to see Infiniti swapping out the CVT transmission in favor of a traditional nine-speed automatic. On the road, the 2.0-liter engine feels like a good match for the refreshed QX60. It provides enough punch, though it takes its time to react to deep throttle inputs like those used when merging onto a freeway or executing passing maneuvers. The transmission also doesn't always react quickly. We noticed some lag when asking for a quick downshift—especially when trying to merge into faster-moving traffic around 45–50 mph. The powertrain is a bit more responsive at lower speeds, but there's still room for improvement in how quickly it delivers the power when you need it most. While output from the 2.0-liter engine is perfectly adequate for daily driving, the variable-compression setup takes its time to launch the QX60. In our testing of a 2025 QX60 with the same setup, the SUV needed 7.9 seconds to reach 60 mph and completed the quarter mile in 16.2 seconds at 89.2 mph. That's a noticeable way behind the Acura MDX with the base engine, which hit 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds and ran the quarter mile in 14.4 seconds at 93.2 mph. Once we hit highway speeds, though, the latest QX60 settled in nicely. The Autograph's cabin was quiet on the freeway, keeping wind and tire noise at bay, while the ride felt smooth and composed. But when we switched to driving on Los Angeles' city streets, which are known for their broken pavement and potholes, the dampers had trouble soaking up all the choppiness. New for 2026, Infiniti's ProPilot Assist 2.1 brings hands-free adaptive cruise control to the QX60. We put it to the test on L.A.'s freeways, and it didn't have any issue letting us keep our hands off the wheel when we encountered driving conditions appropriate for such behavior. The system also supports automatic lane changes, but here you must keep your hands on the wheel. No surprises there, and the QX60 didn't struggle in this scenario. Meanwhile, in-dash graphics clearly indicate when you need to grip the wheel and when you can let go, while a camera perched atop the steering column keeps a watchful eye, making sure you stay alert and engaged. Although we only got behind the wheel of the top-tier 2026 QX60 in Autograph trim, it's great to see all versions benefit from the new infotainment system. The QX60 is solid when it comes to roomy first and second rows, with plenty of space and comfort for passengers up front and in the middle row. That said, the Autograph version we drove featured captain's chairs and a fixed center console in the middle—an option we'd skip because it's bulky; and we prefer to have more space between the seats. Getting in and out of the third row is straightforward: Just press a button on the side of the second-row captain's chairs, and the seat slides and reclines forward, opening decent space to climb aboard. Once you're back there, though, things do feel a bit cozy, though that's standard territory for midsize three-row SUVs. We were bummed to find hard plastics around the third row, which felt mundane compared to the rest of the cabin. On the bright side, third-row passengers get their own air vents, but there's only a single USB port to share, which might leave some charging needs unmet. The 2026 Infiniti QX60's updates might be subtle, but they land well. Infiniti hasn't announced official pricing yet, but we don't expect much change from the existing $51,550 starting point. Sure, tariffs on steel and aluminum could nudge prices up a bit, but since the QX60 is assembled in Smyrna, Tennessee—and its engine rolls out of Decherd, Tennessee—it should dodge most of those extra costs. The 2026 Infiniti QX60 is scheduled to arrive at dealerships later this summer.


Car and Driver
2 days ago
- Car and Driver
2026 Volvo EX90 Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview While Volvo's mid-size EV SUV is clearly inspired by its gas-powered predecessor, the EX90 is more than just an XC90 motivated by electrons. While the two could be mistaken for one another at a distance, the EX90's lack of a front grille hints at its sustainable source of motivation. A 402-hp electric powertrain comes standard, while a potent 510-hp upgrade is also available in Performance models. All EX90s come with all-wheel drive regardless of output. Offering between 300 and 310 miles of driving range, a near-silent contemporary cabin, a clean Scandinavian design, and cutting-edge driver-assistance features, the EX90 proves that Volvo knows how to build a formidable flagship. What's New for 2026? With the EX90 debuting just last year, it carries into 2026 unchanged. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Volvo EX90 is expected to start around $82,000 and go up to $91,000 depending on the trim and options. Plus $82,000 (est) Ultra $86,000 (est) Performance Plus $87,000 (est) Performance Ultra $91,000 (est) 0 $25k $50k $75k $100k $125k $150k While the EX90 does carry a price premium over the gasoline-powered XC90 SUV, its starting price puts it at the affordable end of the spectrum for mid-size electric luxury crossovers. Two trims are available—Plus and Ultra—as well as a dual-motor powertrain in two strengths. The Twin Motor Performance model makes more power, but we'd recommend sticking with the 402-hp Twin Motor model and upgrading to the more luxurious Ultra trim, which adds massaging seats, 21-inch wheels, an air-spring suspension system, and thicker window glass to keep out more road noise. Want to compare the 2026 Volvo EX90 to other vehicles you're interested in? Our new compare tool provides a comprehensive, side-by-side look at up to five cars of your choice. Compare Cars EV Motor, Power, and Performance All EX90s come with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, but the entry-level Twin Motor model makes 402 horsepower while the Twin Motor Performance variant makes 510 horsepower. In our initial test drive, we found the Performance model to be quick and responsive, but we haven't yet driven the base powertrain. The suspension is supple and provides good ride quality, and the steering is well-weighted. The air suspension is height-adjustable, and it combines with adaptive dampers to smooth out the road nicely. The cabin also remains remarkably quiet, even by the standards of an electric vehicle. 0–60-MPH Times Volvo says the Twin Motor model should be capable of hitting 60 mph in 5.7 seconds while the Twin Motor Performance should do the deed in 4.7 seconds. View Photos Volvo Range, Charging, and Battery Life Onboard is a 107.0-kWh battery pack that the EPA estimates will deliver between 300 and 310 miles per charge depending on configuration. DC fast charging capability is standard and is said to need as little as 30 minutes to juice the battery from 10 to 80 percent. The EV architecture used in the EX90 also allows for bi-directional charging, which means you can hook it up to your house to power appliances during a power outage or use it to charge another Volvo EV if needed. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 EX90 yet, but without any changes to its powertrain, it will likely achieve similar results as the 2025 model. Last year's most efficient EX90 with 21-inch wheels returned 86 MPGe city and 82 MPGe highway. Opting for the 20- or 22- inch wheels took a toll, reducing the estimates to 83 MPGe city and 78 MPGe highway. Those numbers are competitive with other luxury electric SUVs such as the BMW iX and the Rivian R1S. When we get a chance, we'll take the EX90 on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route and update this story with its results. For more information about the EX90's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo A minimalist interior design puts most of the EX90's controls on a large touchscreen infotainment system. The look is clean and classically Scandinavian, but it may be irksome to drivers who prefer physical buttons and switches on their dashboards. The interior feels open and airy thanks to a large glass roof, and there's room for seven riders thanks to a standard third row of seats. Leather upholstery has been banished from the options sheet in the interest of eco-friendliness, but the materials used instead look high-end, especially the available wool fabric that's blended with plastic recovered from recycled bottles. View Photos Volvo Infotainment and Connectivity The EX90 features a large, portrait-style 14.5-inch infotainment display that runs the company's latest Google-based infotainment interface. It features in-dash navigation powered by Google Maps and has access to outside apps through the Google Play store. Wireless Apple CarPlay and a 5G cellular data connection are both standard. A Bowers & Wilkins stereo system is available as an option and features Dolby Atmos technology and 25 speakers, including ones embedded into the EX90's headrests. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Volvo promises that new driver-assistance features will make their debut on the EX90, including the company's next-generation adaptive cruise control with lane-centering and active steering assist. But some of these features may be pushed via an over-the-air update later on. Basics such as automated emergency braking are included too, and the EX90 also features a novel in-car radar system that's intended to help prevent children and pets from getting left behind in a hot car. For more information about the EX90's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include: Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Standard adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Volvo offers a well-rounded warranty package on its new cars, including a complimentary scheduled maintenance plan that spans three years or 36,000 miles. Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles Battery components are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles Specifications Specifications 2025 Volvo EX90 Vehicle Type: front- and rear-motor, all-wheel-drive, 6- or 7-passenger, 4-door wagon PRICE Plus, $81,290; Ultra, $85,640; Performance Plus, $86,290; Performance Ultra, $90,640 POWERTRAIN Front Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 232 or 241 hp Rear Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 170 or 268 hp Combined Power: 402 or 510 hp Combined Torque: 568 or 671 lb-ft Battery Pack: liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 107.0 kWh Onboard Charger: 11.0 kW Peak DC Fast-Charge Rate: 250 kW Transmissions, F/R: direct-drive DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 117.5 in Length: 198.3 in Width: 77.3 in Height: 68.8 in Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 58/51/21 ft3 Cargo Volume, behind F/M/R: 71–74/36/13–14 ft3 Front-Trunk Volume: 2–3 ft3 Curb Weight (C/D est): 5700–6000 lb PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) 60 mph: 4.5–5.5 sec 1/4-Mile: 13.0–14.3 sec Top Speed: 112 mph EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 81–84/83–86/78–82 MPGe Range: 300–310 mi More Features and Specs