Extraordinary Rides

Volvo XC90 T8 SUV has frustrating controls By C.A. Haire

Volvo is a top-tier European brand, and the XC90 is the flagship of its SUV lineup. There are three flavors to pick from. First up is the T5 with its 2.0-liter engine, which puts out 250 horsepower. The T6 has the same 2.0 motor, but, by adding a turbocharger and a supercharger, horsepower climbs to 316.

The one we tested is the T8. It combines the same T6 engine setup but adds an electric motor on the rear wheels for a total output of 400 horsepower and a healthy 472 pounds per foot of torque for stronger pulling ability. With a total weight of about 5,000 pounds, this rig needs it.

Another T8 feature is the electric plug-in system. You take the vehicle’s power cord, plug it into a household outlet and, when charged, this Volvo can move up to 14 miles on electric output alone. Once this energy is depleted, the gasoline/hybrid system kicks in. The EPA claims average fuel economy of 27 mpg in this mode. But if you ran 14 miles electric one way, then gasoline power 14 miles on the way home, that could compute to 52 mpg combined. This can work out great for drivers who take lots of short trips.

Without using the electriconly method, our hybrid driving showed 26 mpg on the highway and 23 in mixed commuting. This XC also has the optional air suspension. This can raise the ground clearance for going on those off-pavement desert trails. But tread lightly, as this hybrid doesn’t come with a spare tire, so getting a flat can ruin your day.

The XC90 has one of the industry’s nicest cabins. There’s no cost cutting here. It’s very plush, and the seats are comfortable for long trips. The stereo units offered are first rate. We did not care for many of the controls, which are unusual and frustrating to operate. Examples include a transmission shifter that requires you push twice to place in gear,

The T8 boasts optional LED headlights, air suspension, 21-inch wheels, metallic paint, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system and other goods. The tested vehicle’s tab was $84,440. (Photos by C.A. Haire)

rather than once; a starter switch on the console; and other oddball items that require a learning curve.

The base T5 starts at $49,000. This T8 draws you in at $67,000. With options like LED headlights, air suspension, 21-inch wheels, metallic paint, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system and many smaller goodies, the total tab was $84,440. This is not cheap, but with an electric drive range of 14 miles, look at the money you can save on gas.

ACROSS

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Resorts international? "The Matrix" role

DOWN

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