The 2025 Volvo EX90, a three-row electric SUV, enters a competitive luxury EV market. While boasting a distinctive design and comfortable driving experience, its software-dependent features have faced implementation challenges, delaying its launch and leaving some functionalities pending over-the-air updates.
Design and Interior
2025 Volvo EX90 interior.2025 Volvo EX90 interior showcases minimalist design.
The EX90 evolves Volvo’s signature aesthetic. Its subtle aerodynamic sculpting and updated “Thor’s Hammer” headlights complement its sleek profile. The interior embraces minimalism, with most controls integrated into the portrait touchscreen, leaving a clean, uncluttered dashboard. While aesthetically pleasing, this design choice raises practicality concerns. Adjusting mirrors requires navigating the touchscreen, and the shifter stalk also controls the Pilot Assist system, potentially leading to accidental disengagements. The absence of dedicated rear window switches and a standard glass roof shade is also notable.
Positive details include subtle Swedish flag accents, available wool-blend upholstery, and backlit wood trim. While the third-row seating is suitable for children, its cargo space trails competitors like the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV and Rivian R1S. However, the air suspension kneeling feature simplifies loading.
Technology, Infotainment, and Driver Assist
2025 Volvo EX90 touchscreen.Android-based infotainment system with Google integration.
The EX90 features a 9.0-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch touchscreen powered by an Android-based infotainment system. Google Maps and Google Assistant integration provide a familiar user experience. While wireless Apple CarPlay is planned, it’s not yet available. The touchscreen layout prioritizes navigation, but some icons, like regenerative braking and music options, are difficult to locate quickly. Audio options include a standard 14-speaker Bose system and an optional 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system with Dolby Atmos. Digital key functionality is also included.
2025 Volvo EX90 rear quarter view.The EX90 features advanced driver-assistance technologies.
The EX90’s Pilot Assist system offers adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and automated lane changes, but still requires hands on the wheel. While not as advanced as some hands-free systems, it effectively aids driver safety. However, its activation status indicators are small and accessing advanced settings requires navigating the touchscreen. The inclusion of a lidar unit, designed to enhance visibility in challenging conditions, remains underutilized, awaiting future software updates.
Driving Experience
2025 Volvo EX90 headlight.The EX90 offers a balanced driving experience combining comfort and performance.
The EX90 is exclusively available with a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain and a 111kWh (107kWh usable) battery pack, offered in two performance configurations: Twin Motor (402 hp and 567 lb-ft of torque) and Twin Motor Performance (510 hp and 671 lb-ft of torque). While acceleration figures are competitive, the EX90 shines in its balanced driving dynamics. It handles corners with minimal body roll and maintains a quiet and comfortable ride. However, the tested model featured European-spec summer tires, which may not reflect the performance of production models with all-season tires.
Range and Charging
2025 Volvo EX90 front quarter view.The EX90 supports DC fast charging, but bidirectional charging and Plug & Charge are pending updates.
The EX90 offers a competitive range of up to 310 miles. It supports DC fast charging at up to 250kW, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in 30 minutes. Bidirectional charging and Plug & Charge functionalities are planned but await software updates. Access to the Tesla Supercharger network is also pending.
How We’d Configure This Car
The EX90’s pricing starts at $81,290 for the Twin Motor Plus, with the Ultra trim and Twin Motor Performance adding $4,350 and $5,000, respectively. The primary difference between Plus and Ultra trims is the availability of the Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The EX90 faces competition from the Rivian R1S and the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, each offering unique advantages. For those seeking a two-row option, the Polestar 3 and Cadillac Lyriq are viable alternatives. The Kia EV9 offers a more budget-friendly three-row option.
The EX90 has the potential to be a compelling electric SUV. However, the pending software updates and delayed features hinder its initial appeal. It remains to be seen if these issues will be resolved quickly enough to allow the EX90 to stand out in this increasingly crowded market.
