Swedish SUV with class and cling

With a presence second to none, from its huge grille to its nicely rounded derriere and embedded twin tailpipes, Volvo's biggest passenger-hauler is a tad wider and longer than the previous XC90 yet the combination of high roof, big windows, spacious cabin and large alloys wheels make it look even bigger than it is.

There are 14 models in the XC90 range and prices range from R804 900 to R1 066 400. All of them are powered by the same turbo charged 2-litre engine, tweaked to gurgle petrol or diesel and all linked to the same eight-speed automatic transmission set-up. With the exception of the entry level model all are all-wheel drives.

Initially only two models will be available in South Africa: the biturbo DB5 diesel and the turbocharged and supercharged T6 petrol version. The rest of the new range will filter in during the rest of the year.

I piloted a number of the new models at the recent media launch in the Franschoek area, but it is impossible to describe them in detail here so I will focus on the D5 Inscription, the model I enjoyed the most (AND it was dressed in black, my favourite colour!).

Being twin-turbo force-fed, it flexes 165kW and 470Nm of muscle which is transferred via an eight-speed auto transmission to all four wheels to provide an amazingly impressive performance.

Because of its size and height (and the tendency of previous models to feel a tad wobbly when pushed hard through the corners), I was a bit wary of showing it the whip too early in our association but it soon became clear that it clings to the tar with much sharper claws and virtually the same tenacity as its German size-equals.

Even when pushed way beyond the level most Volvo drivers would go to, the big Swede kept its composure. Clearly the white coats at Volvo have done some good work on the suspension and the steering also feels sharper, probably because of the kilos the new XC90 has shed with the clever use of lighter metals.

The ease and volume of torque that comes into play from very low down in the rev range, and even when cruising along at the legal maximum speed in top gear, is so good that kick-down is almost unnecessary.

With its new-found zesty character this particular model is probably aimed at attracting younger, more enthusiastic drivers who might not previously have even considered buying a Volvo.

The imposing looks of the new range and its much improved ride are perfectly matched by an elegantly refurnished and restyled cabin decked out with huge leather seats and a choice of blonde wood or ritzy aluminium, depending on the model (or options selected). The dials, switches and buttons are cleverly arranged in a logical, easy-to-use manner and the mandatory touchscreen is housed in a prominent centre position and is easy to use, whether for safety, comfort or fun.

Even though all the vehicles are excellent in standard format Buyers also have three trim levels to choose from - Momentum (standard), Inscription (Luxury) and the cool look R Design (on all but the D4).

Volvo also dangles some very fancy optional extras. For example, the D5 AWD I liked best came with nine optional extras including heated front seats, a 360 degree camera, perforated Nappa Leather and a graphic head-up display which elevated the base retail price of the vehicle from R893 900 to R957 700.

With its new confident cling and handling, elegant and comfortable interior, classy ride and stand-out looks the new XC90 lifts Volvo to a new dimension where prospective buyers in this segment would be foolish to ignore it.