2016 Volvo XC90 Luxury SUV Review

Priscilla from It’s Peachy Keen represented OurKidsMom at this event.

I recently had the pleasure of attending a press trip in California centered around the exciting launch of the XC90, Volvo’s latest luxury SUV. The experience was fantastic, and the representatives from Volvo made everyone feel incredibly welcome.

Our adventure began with the opportunity to drive the T8, which is the first plug-in hybrid SUV on the market. We took turns navigating through some iconic coastal roads in California, and the car certainly drew quite a bit of attention.

What onlookers couldn’t see was the exceptional interior, featuring a crystal gear shift that operates with a mere tap.

The infotainment screen is impressively large—comparable to an iPad. The backup camera provides an extraordinary 360-degree view, making parking an effortless task.

The following morning, we had the opportunity to delve deeper into the features of the XC90 and learn about the meticulous design process that went into its creation. Volvo is committed to maximizing safety in its vehicles, seamlessly integrating luxury and advanced technology to enhance the driving experience.

Afterward, we embarked on a two-hour test drive to Ojai, California, this time piloting the Volvo T6.

The T6 quickly became my top pick. Although it’s classified as an SUV, its handling felt distinctly car-like. We navigated city streets, rural roads, alongside the coast, and up mountainous terrains. The handling was excellent, making it a joy to drive for an extended period.

After enjoying a delightful lunch in Ojai, we set off for our return journey, taking our time to capture plenty of photos of the car against California’s stunning backdrop.

Upon returning, we were treated to an impressive demonstration showcasing the incredible back seat feature: the seat can lift and transform into a booster seat! This innovative design eliminates the need for an additional booster seat if you have kids.

The T6 also includes an option for a dog crate in the back, ensuring safety for both passengers and pets during transit.

We were then treated to a live demonstration of the parallel parking feature, showcasing a person behind the wheel driving without using their hands! This experience driving the new XC90 was as enjoyable as meeting the creative minds behind its design.

Just wait and see—Volvo has some exciting surprises planned for the coming years.