2017 Volvo V90 Cross Country Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

byJason KavanaghSenior Vehicle Test Engineer

　　Jason joined zzdcar' testing team in 2006 as a vehicle testing engineer. Jason believes true appreciation of modern cars stems from owning really, really bad old ones.

　　

What’s new

　　The V90 Cross Country is a new model for 2017. It's a modestly revised variant of the V90 wagon, which is based on the S90 midsize luxury sedan that debuted last year.

　　

Vehicle overview

　　Volvo created the V90 Cross Country from the stunning V90 wagon by raising the ride height and adding larger, softer tires and exterior body cladding. Along the way, its stability control, all-wheel drive and electric power steering systems were recalibrated and it received a hill descent control function. Save for the latter, those changes were necessary to accommodate the new tires, but in the bargain they improved the V90 Cross Country's ability to traverse rough roads. Volvo's current design language is truly stunning, and the V90 Cross Country only burnishes its appeal.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2017 Volvo V90 Cross Country T6 4dr Wagon AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$185/mo  for V90 Cross Country T6

　　V90 Cross Country T6

　　T6 4dr Wagon AWD (2.0L 4cyl Twincharger 8A) (Most Popular) - $55,300 MSRP

　　vs

　　$197/mo

　　Avg. Large Car

　　

zzdcar' Expert Rating

　　The Volvo V90 Cross Country has a high-class cabin and can swallow impressive amounts of luggage and cargo in its massive cargo hold. Its off-road bent is largely cosmetic, though it has ample ground clearance. The V90 is based on the S90 sedan, which lacks some polish but is a fine choice in the segment.

　　

Trim tested

　　zzdcar has not yet driven any version of this vehicle. The following is our first take on what's significant about it and what you can expect.

　　

Driving

　　Its powertrain is shared among several other Volvos where it demonstrates its robust power delivery. Modern Volvos aren't the sportiest things, though they can still hustle when called upon. The Cross Country should ride smoothly given its oversized tires.

　　

Comfort

　　A high-class cabin and plenty of space are the V90 Cross Country's calling card. A forgiving suspension should deliver a smooth ride, and considerable sound dampening will likely keep things quiet.

　　

Interior

　　High-quality cabin design and materials make for a first-rate interior all around. The upholstery, touch points and infotainment integration all help create a luxurious wagon with few rivals.

　　

Utility

　　The Cross Country should provide standout utility in all cargo-related respects, being more user-friendly than an SUV and more commodious than a sedan. Lack of towing ability could be its only drawback compared to midsize SUVs.

　　

Technology

　　Uses the same iPad-like interface as Volvo's other midsize vehicles. Works well after a short orientation period with crisp graphics and easy phone integration.

　　

Which V90 Cross Country does zzdcar recommend?

　　With only one trim level on offer, the 2017 Volvo Cross Country makes that decision rather straightforward. However, there are options to consider, and among them we recommend doubling down on the car's inherent luxury trappings. Go for the Premium package for its supple seats and touch points. If you're an audiophile, indulge in the Bowers & Wilkins premium audio, which is a visual treat as much as an auditory one. Skip the head-up display and 20-inch wheels, which will only degrade ride comfort and off-roadability.

　　

2017 Volvo V90 Cross Country models

　　The 2017 Volvo Cross Country will initially be offered in just one trim level, known as T6. It's well equipped as standard, boasting a turbo- and supercharged 2.0-liter engine (316 horsepower, 295 pound-feet of torque), all-wheel drive, leather upholstery, 10-way power front seats and an array of driver assistance features. Optional packages include the Premium package, which includes ventilated leather seats, extended leather surfaces, four-zone climate control and more. Standalone options include air suspension for the rear wheels that provides a load-leveling function, a Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system and 20-inch wheels.

　　

2017 V90 Cross Country Highlights

　　

Base MSRP	$55,300
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	25 MPG
Cost to Drive	$185/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	33.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles