Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance

Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance | Test Drive

27 July 2026 Redazione News, Tested

Words Marco Mancino / Photos Gian Romero

As children, we all go through one or more periods in which something takes on absolute importance. Toy soldiers were far more than just a phase for me, considering that, now in my early forties, I’m far more likely to spend a weekend in my study building ship and military aircraft model kits than partying in some nightclub. It has certainly had financial consequences (scale modelling is a bottomless pit for your wallet), but it has also shaped my personal tastes. I love things done on a grand scale, and that obviously applies to the automotive world as well.

The flagship is, without question, the crown jewel of any collection, not only because of its strategic importance, but because it embodies the very best engineering and technology everything it represents has to offer. Volvo, one of the brands that has always personified the very essence of road safety more than almost any other, has long represented practicality devoted entirely to its customers. How could anyone forget an icon such as the 760 saloon, or the high-performance 850 T5-R? The list could go on forever, even leaving aside the magnificent older models in favour of the innovative 480 Turbo or the elegant C70. The point is that beneath its apparent Scandinavian restraint lies the awareness — and the ability — to create not just another car, but something destined to leave a lasting impression.

Enter the EX90, whose sheer size proudly earns it the title of Volvo’s new flagship. It is the most powerful Volvo ever put into production, it is exclusively electric, and it has virtually nothing in common with the XC90 apart from the badge on the key. And if you’re wondering, we first made sure this wasn’t simply another clever marketing exercise before taking it onto the road to discover whether this new chapter in Scandinavian electrification truly justifies another of its records: being the most expensive Volvo you can currently buy.

If you need a direct comparison with the XC90, bear in mind that the EX90 is 84 mm longer, 41 mm wider, has an almost identical wheelbase, but stands around 20–25 mm lower. Volvo’s electric colossus also boasts a commanding presence, helped by its closed-off front grille, the absence of traditional wheel arch cladding around the enormous 22-inch wheels, and even cleaner and more minimalist surfaces, such as the flush door handles integrated into the side profile. The door mirrors house two of the car’s eight cameras, useful when manoeuvring but, above all, designed for autonomous driving (not yet actually available at the time of writing), complemented by five radars and no fewer than sixteen additional sensors. It is also impossible not to notice the LiDAR unit mounted at the base of the roof, something that perhaps could have been integrated in a slightly less intrusive way, rather reminiscent of a London taxi.

The lighting units were clearly one of the most engaging aspects of the design process. At the rear they follow the styling language of Volvo’s electric range, while at the front they create a spectacular lighting sequence as you approach the vehicle with the key in your pocket. It works brilliantly and is particularly effective at night. The only downside is that almost every control has been relegated to the 14.5-inch touchscreen. It is fast and intuitive, there’s no denying that, but it sits somewhat at odds with the philosophy of safety while driving. Setting distractions aside, the EX90 offers heated seats with multiple massage programmes and dual-zone climate control for both the front and rear passengers. While we’re at it, it’s worth noting that the EX90 accommodates up to seven occupants, with those in the third row by no means feeling like second-class passengers. The luggage compartment is equally impressive, ranging from 324 liters to a maximum of 1,149 liters, or 662 liters in the five-seat configuration.

The premium feel is evident throughout the cabin, particularly in the optional “Tailored Wool Blend” upholstery (€1,220). It may be a little delicate, but it further enhances the personality of a vehicle that has no intention of blending into the crowd. The gear selector is mounted on the right-hand side of the steering column, while behind the wheel sits a digital display showing all the essential driving information, including Google-powered navigation, which remains faultless and cleverly calculates charging stops to ensure you reach your destination without range anxiety. There is also a head-up display and a Bowers & Wilkins audio system costing well over €3,000, perfect for accompanying long journeys, although the cabin’s sound insulation from the outside world is already nothing short of exceptional.

The rear windows are operated using the same two switches shared with the front windows: a practical solution when travelling alone, somewhat less so if the children in the back are determined to test your patience. Beyond that, the EX90 represents the very best Volvo currently has to offer. Its two electric motors, powered by a 111 kWh battery pack, deliver 517 horsepower and a remarkable 910 Nm of torque, naturally distributed across all four wheels. The all-wheel-drive system makes it reassuringly usable in every situation, without ever feeling intimidated by such immense power. At the same time, the substantial 2,787 kg kerb weight inevitably tempers performance figures that could otherwise have been even more dramatic. Yet considering its size and a suspension setup that remains relatively soft even in Performance mode, the 0–100 kph sprint in 4.9 seconds is more than respectable. Top speed is electronically limited to 180 kph in order to preserve battery efficiency, while a full charge delivers a realistic driving range of approximately 450–480 kilometers. One-pedal driving is available, along with an Auto mode that adjusts regenerative braking intensity automatically, although I personally wasn’t entirely convinced by it.

I genuinely like the EX90, a lot. In fact. As a long-time admirer of the XC90, even while many argue that the XC60 delivers much the same experience in a more manageable size and at a lower price, I believe the EX90 represents a crucial milestone for a brand that continues to surprise, especially by distancing itself from competitors seemingly obsessed with horsepower and outright performance. Too often they forget that the real objective of an electric SUV like this is to cover long distances while requiring as few charging stops as possible. Around 35–40 minutes, for example, are enough to recharge the battery from 20 to 80% using a 110 kW charging station. What truly caught me off guard, however, was the fact that even the key requires charging, provided you are using the so-called Key Tag. You can recharge it inside the car by placing it on the wireless smartphone charging pad or simply do it at home. Just remember to keep it charged, because otherwise the car may not start at all.

With prices starting at €99,150 for the Twin Motor Performance version (or €88,200 for the entry-level Single Motor), expectations are understandably high and once on the road, the EX90 delivers exactly what you hope for. First of all, you can achieve an unusually low driving position, which almost completely eliminates the sensation of sitting behind the wheel of a five-meter-long, seven-seat SUV. Although the suspension is soft, it never suffers from excessive body roll or pitch, at least not until you deliberately begin playing with the inertia of nearly three tonnes riding on winter tyres. Driving the EX90 in urban environments is far easier than its dimensions might suggest, so don’t believe those who dismiss it as “too big”. The seats are so comfortable that you’ll probably receive the recommended coffee break alert far more often than you’ll ever feel the need to stop.

If you have a checklist of qualities you expect from a luxury SUV, this one will tick an extraordinary number of boxes. Identifying its single greatest strength is almost impossible, simply because the EX90 combines so many virtues that it has nothing to envy from the usual premium brands that come to mind when considering such a significant investment. This is not merely the electric counterpart to the XC90, but Volvo’s most exclusive interpretation of electric mobility. It is a product that goes beyond even its close relationship with Polestar, highlighting that Volvo has no intention of standing still and will continue pursuing innovation at the highest level. In terms of both technology and engineering, the EX90 represents the brand at its absolute peak. Placing it alongside the XC90 is the quickest and clearest way to appreciate just how profoundly different the two are, not only from an engineering perspective, but conceptually as well. Volvo’s future appears to be heading into battles it has every chance of winning. Admiral on deck: the EX90 is ready for the attack. Engage and sink the enemy.