“Electrifyingly Serene”
For decades, Volvo has built its reputation on a bedrock of safety, practicality, and a distinctly Scandinavian approach to luxury – one that prioritizes human well-being, intuitive design, and environmental responsibility over ostentatious displays. I’ve seen them evolve, incorporating sleek designs and powerful engines, yet always returning to that core identity, i should know as my family has owned Volvo’s since the late 80’s. So, when the world moves irrevocably towards an electric future, where does a brand like Volvo plant its flag? Not with a shout, but with a confident, serene statement. Enter the 2025 Volvo EX90 Plus, a vehicle that doesn’t just adapt to the electric age; it embodies Volvo’s vision for it, setting a new benchmark for what a large, luxurious, and supremely safe electric SUV can be.
There’s something inherently reassuring about a Volvo, isn’t there? It’s a trust earned over generations. The EX90 Plus takes that trust and projects it into the future. From the moment you see it, the EX90 Plus speaks a design language of understated elegance. Clad in a refined Sand Dune exterior, contrasted by a sophisticated Charcoal/Cardamom interior, it’s unmistakably a Volvo, but modernized, smoothed, and aerodynamically optimized for its electric heart. The signature “Thor’s Hammer” ultimate LED headlights with DRL are there, but subtly integrated, almost hinting at the cutting-edge technology hidden within. The clean lines, flush door handles, and gently sloping roofline aren’t just aesthetically pleasing; with a drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0.29, they’re engineered for efficiency, reducing drag and extending range. It’s a vehicle that stands out not by shouting, but by its quiet, confident presence – the kind that makes you look twice, then appreciate the thoughtful details.
Beneath that sophisticated shell lies a powerhouse of advanced electric propulsion. The EX90 Plus is equipped with a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system delivering exhilarating yet utterly smooth performance. This particular Twin Motor configuration boasts a formidable 510 horsepower and 671 lb-ft of torque, propelling this substantial SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 4.9 seconds, all while silently gliding to a top speed of 180 km/h. Power comes from a robust 111 kWh (nominal) lithium-ion battery (107 kWh usable), delivering an impressive EPA-estimated electric range of up to 499 km. What does that mean for us Canucks? It means ample range for daily commutes, weekend adventures to the cottage, and confident long-distance journeys to Kelowna. Charging is impressively quick too; with DC fast charging at 250 kW, you can go from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes. For home charging, an AC (48A) connection can fully charge the battery in approximately 10 hours. This robust output and efficient design ensure not just an impresive straight-line speed but also confident traction and control in virtually any driving condition.
Step inside the EX90 Plus, and you immediately understand Volvo’s vision of modern luxury. It’s an interior that calms the senses, not overwhelms them. The cabin is a masterclass in Scandinavian minimalism, where every element feels purposeful and exquisitely crafted. Forget chrome and shiny plastics; here, sustainable materials are likely part of the thoughtful design philosophy. The expansive fixed panoramic sunroof, a standard feature on the Plus, floods the cabin with natural light, further enhancing the sense of spaciousness and serenity for all seven occupants. With generous interior dimensions like 1,075 mm of front headroom and 1,039 mm of front legroom, and even 909 mm of rear headroom and 811 mm of third-row legroom, comfort is assured across all three rows.
At the heart of the digital experience is a large, portrait-oriented 14.5-inch centre display (complemented by a 9-inch digital driver display), powered by Google built-in. This intuitive interface puts navigation, entertainment, and vehicle controls at your fingertips, seamlessly integrating with your digital life with features like Wireless Apple CarPlay, 5G capability, and six USB-C ports. The sound experience is equally paramount, with the Bose Premium Sound system featuring 14 speakers transforming the cabin into a private concert hall, delivering pristine audio fidelity.
But it’s not just about the screens and sound. This is a Volvo, which means safety is paramount, and the EX90 Plus sets new standards. It’s equipped with an advanced sensor suite, including a roofline-integrated LiDAR system, an array of cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors that scan the environment around the car 360 degrees. This sophisticated hardware, combined with cutting-edge software, enables an enhanced Pilot Assist Driver Assistance System with Adaptive Cruise Control, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, Run-off Road Mitigation & Protection, and Lane Keeping Aid. Crucially, an interior “driver understanding system” monitors your attention and well-being, ready to intervene if needed. Other safety staples include City Safety with Steering Support, BLIS with Steer Assist and Cross-Traffic Alert with Autobrake, a 360 Camera with front, rear, and side park assist, and the WHIPS whiplash injury protection system. It’s like having an invisible co-pilot constantly looking out for you and your family.
For most families, the standard 7-passenger configuration is ample. The second and third rows are genuinely usable, offering comfortable seating for adults and children alike. An integrated centre booster cushion in the second row adds to family convenience. 4-zone automatic climate control and a Heat Pump ensure everyone remains comfortable regardless of the outside temperature, a crucial consideration winters get colder and summers hotter. Luxuries like power adjustable heated front seats with manual cushion extension, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and a graphical Head-Up Display further enhance the driving experience. Even the wheels are purpose-built, featuring 20″ 5-spoke Aero wheels (255/50R20 Front / 285/45R20 Rear) designed for both aesthetics and efficiency.
Now, for the bottom line. The price as tested for this 2025 Volvo EX90 Plus, equipped with the Twin Motor powertrain and a suite of impressive standard features (plus a Protection Package and Sunshade for the Panoramic Roof), comes in at a total of $114,729.00 CAD. This includes the $110,000 MSRP, $1,140 in options, a $2,770 Freight & PDI charge, a $699 Retailer Administration Fee, $100 A/C Tax, and $20 Tire Tax. This positions it squarely against other premium electric SUVs like the Mercedes EQS SUV, Audi Q8 e-tron, and potentially higher trims of the Tesla Model X (although no longer made). It’s a significant investment, but one that promises a blend of leading-edge technology, unparalleled safety, and a distinctly modern, sustainable luxury experience.
While the 2025 Volvo EX90 Plus presents a compelling vision of electric luxury, it’s also worth acknowledging that its sheer scale and ambition might present a few considerations for potential owners. Its length of 5,037 mm and curb weight of 2,748 kg, while contributing to its imposing presence and interior space, can make navigating tight urban spaces or crowded parking lots a test of skill, even with the aid of its 360 Camera and 11.8m turning circle. Furthermore, despite its impressive estimated range, the reality of Canada’s charging infrastructure, particularly outside of major metropolitan areas, could still pose logistical challenges for those undertaking frequent long-distance journeys. Lastly, its premium price tag, while justified by its features and technology, places it firmly in an exclusive segment, making it an aspirational vehicle that remains out of reach for most, underscoring its role as a statement piece rather than a practical solution for the masses. One aditional item of note is that the key requiress regular charing via the wireless charge pad or at home wireless solution. This can get annoying, but the Volvo app linkning your device can solve this problem
When stacked against its full-size luxury SUV rivals, the EX90 Plus carves out a distinctive niche. Unlike the outright opulence of a Cadillac Escalade IQ or the tech-forward aggression of a Tesla Model X, the Volvo exudes a serene confidence. It doesn’t scream for attention; it earns it through thoughtful design, a relentless focus on safety (now enhanced by LiDAR as standard), and an interior that feels like a calming Scandinavian sanctuary. While a Mercedes EQS SUV might offer a similar level of electric sophistication and comfort, the EX90 distinguishes itself with its profound commitment to sustainability and its human-centric approach to technology. It’s less about brute force or flashy displays and more about intelligent design working harmoniously to provide a safe, luxurious, and uniquely intuitive driving and living experience.
The 2025 Volvo EX90 Plus isn’t just another electric SUV; it’s a meticulously crafted vision of what the future of family luxury can, and should, be. It’s a statement that you don’t have to compromise on power, space, or elegance to drive sustainably. For the discerning individual who values safety, thoughtful design, and a serene, electrified journey, the EX90 Plus is not just an impressive vehicle; it’s a home away from home, ready to transport you and your loved ones into a cleaner, safer tomorrow.
