Test Drive
Having driven a sedan all these while, it was a secret dream to be able to drive my family out in a ‘monster’ 7-seater MPV. And the surprise came none more than from Volvo, the Swede car-maker! With its spacious cabin for 7 and the elegant interior!
The photos were enough to woo any drivers. What are we waiting for?!? Let it go! I mean, let’s go!
Without a shadow of doubt, I am not a car expert, neither do I think any serious car buyer will read my blog to understand the specifications of this car, but for holistic sake I will still list down some of the key specs you will find in this Volvo XC90 T5 R-Design.
Engine
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Engine capacity: 2,497 cc
Max output: 210 bhp/ 154 kW @ 5,000 rpm
Max torque: 320 Nm @ 1,500-4,500 rpm
Performance
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 9.9 secs
Top speed: 210 km/h
Fuel consumption (combination of city/ highway driving): 11.4 L/ 100 km
Transmission
Automatic, 5-speed
Measurements
Wheelbase: 2,857 mm
Kerb weight: 2,112 kg
Fuel tank: 80 L
So there you have it, the ‘boring’ specs. Now for the real review, the experience from the users and passengers.
As a driver, one of the most important thing I feel personally is the touch or feel of the interior design. Which is like why certain people like Nikon or Canon cameras, because the settings, the dials, the buttons are designed differently and they like it. As for the Volvo XC90, the design was just right, with a touch of everything within reach.
You can connect your mobile phone via Bluetooth and not worry about the new regulation of using your mobile while driving. The selection buttons on the dashboard are neatly presented and pretty organized in the way I like. I prefer the simple layout compared to certain cars with more fanciful styles.
Another aspect that should be vital for all drivers is the stability and performance. With the car’s cruise control feature, the drive along the highways were definitely less tiring and translates to better fuel efficiency. Talking about fuel consumption, we barely used up half a tank for a full 3-day round the island traveling, which is amazing for a SUV. I’m talking about traveling from Woodlands to Pasir Ris to Sentosa to Gardens by the Bay to Sembawang to Pandan Gardens to Yio Chu Kang to Sentosa (again). Alright, you get the picture.
The drive was smooth. Even thought it was a bigger car, the maneuverability was relative easy, assisted by the high driving position and a commanding view of the road ahead. This was especially so proven when we had a raining afternoon during the 3-day test drive. There was a reassurance of knowing we won’t be stuck in some flash flood. Plus the All Wheel Drive helped to give some additional safety assurance too.
Volvo’s classic touch for safety was enhanced in the XC90 with its Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), which warns driver if you haven’t noticed another vehicle entering your blind spot as you prepare to change lanes. Cool right?
For the space, what can you ask for more in a 7-seater car? The space is huge! Having driven mostly sedan cars, the change to a ‘family car’ is a true blessing. The kids had so much more fun and space to bring their favorite barang barang on board.
The second row has an in-built car seat for younger kids. Just a pull of the handle and viola, a child booster seat reveals and transforms the center seat just suitable for my small-sized girl.
For the third row, within a minute or so, you can transform it from a seat setting to a gigantic boot space.
Most suitable for family picnic.
Did I mention the sun roof? Though not very applicable for the sunny weather in Singapore, where we would most of the time just close the sun roof, but it’s still a novelty to have, especially for the kids.
Thanks to the team from Volvo, inviting us to have the chance to enjoy such a wonderful family car over the weekend and helped us had an even more unforgettable bonding time.
The wife says:
What I really love about the car was how comfortable and relaxing the rides in it were. Not only was the car stable and steady, the engine was quiet as well. Quite a few times, I found myself asleep in the passenger seat because it was just so cosy.
The spaciousness of the car interior was another plus point, in my opinion. Family outings with both sides of the family would be much more convenient and comfortable in a car of this size. It’s a perfect choice for a family car.
The children say:
Can we keep the car please? I like the back seats, because I can have it all to myself, I am the Queen!
The mother says:
哇！Volvo 也有那么大辆的车。能够坐这辆车去KL 就好。
(translation: Wow! Volvo has such big cars too. It would be great if we can drive this car to KL.)
She is thinking of our CNY trip. Volvo, are you keen to bless us again? =p
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