Why the Volvo EX90 is the definitive eco-warrior SUV
Safety remains the cornerstone and the Lidar sensor scans the surroundings on the move, picking out cars, lanes and other objects in the EX90's proximity. All that's needed is to keep your hands on the wheel at all times and it will self-throttle, brake and turn into curves proficiently. The system is let down only by municipal ineptness where road markings have faded and deactivates quickly and warns the driver to take the reins.
Foibles? Putting all major controls into a single digital hub will not be to everyone's liking, but I'm all for it. The digital key, which the car senses on approach, is too small, though, and easy to lose. Apart from this, the car didn't put a foot wrong for me.
The closest rivals to this luxury electric Volvo are the BMW iX 50 and Mercedes-Benz EQS 450. While the BMW looks the part and is priced marginally lower than the Volvo's R2,650,00, it doesn't accommodate seven people. The Mercedes is R82,000 more expensive and can be optioned with seven seats.
Having tested all three, it's the Volvo EX90 that's coming home with me for its blend of luxury, style, functionality and Lidar sensors. It's sold as standard with a five-year/100,000km warranty and a three-year/60,000km maintenance plan.
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