The automotive landscape in Australia is experiencing a seismic shift, and leading this transformation is Volvo’s flagship electric SUV, the EX90. This isn’t just another electric vehicle entering the market – it represents a fundamental reimagining of what family transportation can achieve in the modern era.
Arriving in Australian showrooms this April 2025, the EX90 stands as Volvo’s most ambitious project to date. The Swedish manufacturer has invested years of research and development into creating what they boldly claim is “the best car we have ever made.”
Breaking New Ground in Electric Luxury
The EX90 emerges from Volvo’s commitment to complete electrification by 2030, serving as the electric successor to the beloved XC90. However, this isn’t simply an electrified version of an existing model – it’s a ground-up redesign that leverages cutting-edge technology to deliver an entirely new driving experience.
Built on Volvo’s new SPA2 platform, the EX90 shares its technological foundation with the Polestar 3, yet maintains its own distinct character. The engineering team has prioritized family comfort and safety while ensuring the vehicle delivers impressive performance credentials.
What sets the EX90 apart in the increasingly crowded luxury electric SUV segment is its ability to seamlessly blend Scandinavian design philosophy with practical family needs. The result is a vehicle that doesn’t compromise on luxury while accommodating the complex demands of modern family life.
Performance That Surprises and Delights
Twin Motor Powertrains Delivering Exceptional Performance
The EX90 arrives in Australia with two compelling powertrain options, both featuring dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations. The entry-level Plus Twin Motor variant generates 300kW of power and 700Nm of torque, propelling this substantial SUV from zero to 100 kilometers per hour in just 5.9 seconds.
For those seeking even more exhilarating performance, the Ultra Twin Motor Performance model elevates the experience with 380kW of power and a commanding 910Nm of torque. This flagship variant slashes the acceleration time to an impressive 4.9 seconds, demonstrating that electric family vehicles need not sacrifice excitement for practicality.
Both variants are limited to a top speed of 180 kilometers per hour and can tow up to 2,200 kilograms, making them suitable for weekend adventures with boats, caravans, or trailers.
Engineering Excellence in Motion
Despite weighing approximately 2,704 kilograms, the EX90 demonstrates remarkable agility thanks to sophisticated torque-vectoring technology. The low-mounted battery pack lowers the center of gravity, contributing to surprisingly composed handling for such a substantial vehicle.
The advanced air suspension system continuously adapts to road conditions, ensuring passenger comfort while maintaining precise vehicle control. Multiple driving modes allow drivers to prioritize either comfort or performance depending on the situation.
Range and Charging: Freedom from Range Anxiety
Impressive Distance Capability
The EX90’s substantial 111kWh battery pack delivers up to 570 kilometers of range on a single charge, positioning it competitively against established luxury electric SUVs. This range figure provides genuine long-distance touring capability, addressing one of the primary concerns potential electric vehicle buyers express.
Real-world range will naturally vary based on driving conditions, weather, and individual driving styles. However, Volvo’s conservative estimates suggest most families will easily manage daily driving requirements with substantial margin for unexpected journeys.
Rapid Charging Technology
When charging is required, the EX90 accommodates rapid replenishment through its 250kW DC fast-charging capability. Under optimal conditions, the battery can charge from 10 to 80 percent capacity in approximately 30 minutes, making long-distance travel practical and convenient.
The vehicle also includes an 11kW onboard AC charger for home charging scenarios. Bi-directional charging capability means the EX90 can function as a mobile power source, potentially powering homes during outages or charging other electric vehicles when needed.
Interior Luxury Redefined
Seven-Seat Versatility
The EX90’s interior represents a masterclass in Scandinavian design excellence. All seven seats feature premium materials, with the base model offering sustainable Nordico synthetic leather crafted from recycled bottles, cork, and sustainable pine tree oil.
Second-row passengers enjoy generous space with sliding seats that can be adjusted to optimize either their comfort or third-row accessibility. Even the third row provides surprisingly adequate accommodation for adults, rather than being relegated to emergency use only.
Technology Integration
The centerpiece of the interior is a stunning 14.5-inch portrait-oriented infotainment display running Google-based software. The system provides intuitive access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings while supporting wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity.
A comprehensive 9.0-inch digital instrument cluster presents essential driving information clearly, while a head-up display projects key data directly into the driver’s line of sight. Smartphone integration extends to using compatible devices as vehicle keys, adding convenience for tech-savvy families.
Premium Audio Experience
Music enthusiasts will appreciate the remarkable 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivering 1,610 watts of premium audio power. The system includes an automotive industry first: Abbey Road Studios mode, which allows users to shape their listening experience from vintage tonality to contemporary sound signatures.
The cabin itself has been engineered as one of the quietest in the automotive industry, creating an ideal environment for both conversation and audio entertainment.
Safety Innovation Leading the Industry
Advanced Driver Monitoring
Volvo’s reputation for safety excellence reaches new heights with the EX90’s sophisticated monitoring systems. Interior sensors continuously track driver attention levels, providing alerts when inattentiveness is detected. The system monitors eye movement, head position, and steering input patterns to assess driver state.
A touch-sensitive steering wheel provides additional data to the monitoring system, ensuring comprehensive awareness of driver engagement levels throughout every journey.
Occupant Detection Technology
The EX90 introduces innovative occupant detection capabilities designed to prevent anyone from being inadvertently left inside the vehicle. This system provides particular peace of mind for families with young children or elderly passengers who might become disoriented.
Combined with traditional safety features like comprehensive airbag systems, collision avoidance technology, and robust structural design, the EX90 represents Volvo’s most safety-focused vehicle to date.
Environmental Responsibility
Sustainable Manufacturing
Volvo has prioritized environmental responsibility throughout the EX90’s development and production. The vehicle incorporates 15 percent recycled steel, 25 percent recycled aluminum, and up to 48 percent recycled plastics and bio-based materials – representing the highest sustainability rate in Volvo’s history.
This commitment extends beyond materials to encompass the entire vehicle lifecycle, from manufacturing through eventual recycling at end-of-life.
Operational Efficiency
The EX90’s impressive 0.29 coefficient of drag contributes significantly to its efficiency and range capabilities. The sleek exterior design balances aerodynamic performance with the practical requirements of a seven-seat family vehicle.
Pricing and Market Position
Australian Market Pricing
The EX90 enters the Australian market with pricing starting at $124,990 for the Plus Twin Motor variant, while the Ultra Twin Motor Performance model commands $134,990 (both prices exclude on-road costs).
This positioning places the EX90 competitively against established luxury electric SUVs while offering more seating capacity than many alternatives. The pricing undercuts premium German rivals like the Audi Q8 e-tron ($153,984) and BMW iX ($136,900), while providing substantially more luxury than mainstream seven-seat electric alternatives.
Value Proposition
Every EX90 purchase includes a comprehensive five-year, 75,000-kilometer complimentary service package, adding significant value to the ownership proposition. The vehicle is backed by Volvo’s standard five-year unlimited-kilometer warranty, providing long-term peace of mind.
For buyers concerned about electric vehicle depreciation, Volvo is considering guaranteed resale value programs to address market uncertainties around electric vehicle values.
Future of Family Transportation
The EX90 represents more than just another electric vehicle option – it embodies a vision of how families might travel in an increasingly electrified world. By combining luxury, practicality, safety, and environmental responsibility, Volvo has created a compelling proposition for families ready to embrace electric transportation.
As charging infrastructure continues expanding across Australia and public acceptance of electric vehicles grows, the EX90 positions itself as a premium gateway into electric family transportation. Its combination of range, performance, and luxury addresses the primary concerns that have historically prevented families from considering electric alternatives.
The EX90 doesn’t just compete with other electric vehicles – it challenges the entire notion that families must compromise when choosing sustainable transportation. This Swedish flagship proves that the future of family travel can be both responsible and thoroughly enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the driving range of the Volvo EX90 on a single charge? The Volvo EX90 offers up to 570 kilometers of range on a single charge, providing ample distance for most daily driving needs and long-distance touring requirements.
How many seats does the Volvo EX90 have and is it practical for large families? The EX90 features seven individual seats arranged in three rows, with the second row sliding to optimize either passenger comfort or third-row access. Even with all seven seats occupied, the vehicle provides 365 liters of boot space, making it genuinely practical for large families.
When will the Volvo EX90 be available in Australian dealerships? The Volvo EX90 is now available to order in Australia, with deliveries starting in April 2025, allowing customers to experience this flagship electric SUV in the coming months.