When I received the email from the folks at Volvo asking if I’d like to take the brand new Volvo XC90 SUV for a weekend drive, I immediately forwarded it to my husband, Nick. You see, cars aren’t really my thing. Ask me anything pregnancy, kids, diet and beauty related, I would have plenty to say. Nick on the other hand, has been doing his research on family friendly SUVs – given that we have an expanding family now. This gig is right up his alley. So here it is, the first guest post from my husband on why he wishes we have more weekends with the XC90 from Volvo.
Oh, you’ll also see that I’ve inserted my comments here and there. I can’t help it. It is my blog after all 🙂
1. Good looking design
The first time I saw the new XC90, I had to do a double take. I didn’t realise it was a Volvo. When I first think of Volvo, I usually think of my high school English teacher who would come to class every day wearing 5 different shades of brown. Reliable but boring.
Well, Volvo is no longer boring.
Unlike its previous boxy, clunky, pedestrian-looking models, the re-designed XC90 is seriously sexy. The sleek, elegant lines give it a modern, understated and prestigious look – almost as if Volkswagen and Audi came together and made a baby. But at the same time, the design pays respect to Volvo heritage by maintaining the distinctive front grill and vertical taillights. In fact, I would say the new XC90 is undoubtedly the best looking 7-seater SUV on the market today.
2. Incredible interior experience
The good first impression doesn’t stop at the exterior.
One step inside the XC90 cabin, you immediately feel a sense of luxury, comfort and quality. Like you just stepped into a five star hotel.
Right down to the smallest detail, the interior cabin design is well thought-out. Stitched leather seats, panoramic sunroof, uncluttered console, seats with own tracks, even electric lumbar support for the front seats – you can tell there were no compromises or cutting corners in the redesign. What’s more, the second row legroom is very spacious – which in my opinion, is one seemingly basic non-negotiable that most other SUVs don’t get right.
Mich’s note: Second row is big enough to accommodate 2 childseats and an adult comfortably in the middle. It was also pretty easy for me to get in and out from the middle seat too. I know, because I sat there many times when Lauren and Georgia wanted me right next to them.
3. Easy to load and unload kids
I’m 6’2 tall, my wife is 5’7. One pet peeve I have with SUVs is having to bend and tilt your body at an angle to load and unload your kids, while at the same time craning your neck to avoid hitting your head.
4. Smooth and quiet driving experience
5. Smart Car Tech
The XC90 is loaded with advanced technology.
Mich’s note: I’m particularly impressed by the CleanZone Air Purification System. That very weekend when we took the kids out for the test drive, the haze shot up to above 200psi. It puts my mind at ease knowing that the air purification system of the Volvo XC90 is able to capture small, harmful particles and pollen in the incoming air with the an added new carbon filter.
6. Family Safety
Volvo has always been known for safety, and with the XC90 there is no exception. This makes it very reassuring for parents.
Awareness of other vehicles is also a non-negotiable for me, especially in large vehicles. Visibility in the XC90 is excellent all around, leaving rarely any blind spots. Rear visibility in particular is much better in the XC90 due to its straighter back, compared to other SUVs which have sloping backs.
7. Massive boot space, one click boot close
With both the second and third row seats all folded flat, there is enormous boot space in the back. You could accommodate strollers and golf clubs EASILY. Not only that, the seats fold completely flat unlike other SUVs.
Verdict?
Take it for a test drive this weekend at Wearnes Automotive and let me know your thoughts?
Looks very spacious and comfy, even for your family of 4!! Maybe can fit 6 too haha..
Ai @ Sakura Haruka
Yes Ai, it is a 7 seater. 🙂
Wow, it certainly does look luxurious!
What a beauty it is and damn spacious. I was just thinking about a long road drive.
I love the roomy 2nd row legroom space, which is all important because that's where I'm always seated now – in the center so I have access to all kiddos.
When I think Safety, Volvo always come to mind 🙂
cheers, Andy
(SengkangBabies)
This car is a beauty! Love the space and comfort within! Can load a lot of stuff at the boot area and the whole family can go for picnic!
Woah..i am all for bootspace. How is the bootspace like even with all rows tho? I've been spoilt with a Town & Country and this looks like it is a very close second!
We loved our drive with Volvo the other time too. But this one looks even more family friendly! Their car is very well built and steady.
Haha.. same here Geraldine. The comfy front passenger seat is left empty 🙁
This one doesn't look as big from the outside but it sure is spacious inside. Even with all the rows up, there are still some space in the boot.
Hahaha Phoebe, with the massive space in the boot, I was tempted to have a picnic in there!
I get my husband to write car reviews too 😉 The air purification system sounds like a real plus.
Mummybean
Life is in the Small Things
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