The Volvo XC90 is now 8 years in since its redesign back in 2015 and 2019 facelift. It instantly was a winner in the industry. A modern timeless design combined with an uncluttered interior providing a serene environment and a modern infotainment screen that was huge for its time. Sure it had some growing pains and quirks, nothing detracted from its appeal. All this time later, it still feels new and fresh not showing its age. For 2022 the Volvo XC90 Recharge (a renaming of the former T8 trim) is the plugin hybrid version.
The XC90 Recharge presents with a bold front grille and the signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights. The XC90 Recharge is powered by a dual motors that produce a combined 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. The front two wheels are powered by a 2.0L Turbo 4, gone is the turbo and supercharged combo. The rear wheels are powered by the 143 horsepower electric motor. This combination pushes this full size SUV to 100km in 5.3 seconds. The increased power from the upgraded electric motor provides for a smooth and responsive driving experience, with instant torque and brisk acceleration. The 14.9-kWH batter pack gives an estimated 53KM all electric range and produced a combined fuel rating of 8.9l/100km.
Safety continues to be top priority for Volvo, and the XC90 Recharge comes standard with a range of advanced driver assistance systems, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross traffic alert. The interior as always remains fresh and clean. The seats are supportive in all the right ways. Materials are top notch, and soft to the touch. Combined with open pore wood accents and XC90 or for that matter most Volvo’s are a perfect place to be. The instrument cluster is all digital and what used to be one of the largest screens in the industry, doesn’t feel all that big anymore. However, the old Sensus system has been brought into the future by using Google OS to power nearly all aspects of the vehicle. Depsite this the system still feels incomplete and lacks some of ease of use the old Sensus system offered.
Safety continues to be top priority for Volvo, and the XC90 Recharge comes standard with a range of advanced driver assistance systems, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross traffic alert. The interior as always remains fresh and clean. The seats are supportive in all the right ways. Materials are top notch, and soft to the touch. Combined with open pore wood accents and XC90 or for that matter most Volvo’s are a perfect place to be. The instrument cluster is all digital and what used to be one of the largest screens in the industry, doesn’t feel all that big anymore. However, the old Sensus system has been brought into the future by using Google OS to power nearly all aspects of the vehicle. Depsite this the system still feels incomplete and lacks some of ease of use the old Sensus system offered.
All in all the XC90 Recharge allows for this gracefully aging SUV to remain relevant in a market that continues to offer more electric SUV options on a daily basis. For those who want the ability to have a luxury SUV that gives some peace of mind from range anxiety the Recharge is a great option. For those that are looking for an all electric option, the XC40 and C40 remain the primary option from Volvo, at lease until the EX90 arrives in 2023.
Overall, the 2022 Volvo XC90 Recharge is a great option for those looking for a luxury electric SUV with a spacious, comfortable cabin, advanced technology, and a powerful electric powertrain. With an impressive range and plenty of advanced safety features, it is sure to be a popular choice among electric vehicle buyers.
