This review is a heartfelt plea to those with a sense of adventure and a desire to be different. I’m asking you not to follow the crowd, not to blend in with the sea of premium badged SUVs that line every suburban street and strip mall. Instead, I’m urging you to consider something unique, luxurious, and aesthetically pleasing—the 2024 Volvo V90 Cross Country.
Long roof station wagons are a rare breed these days, with only a few left on the market. Among them are the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the Audi A6, and Volvo’s offerings—the V60 and the V90. Even Volvo, known globally for its appealing station wagons, has threatened to discontinue them for the North American market. The thought of a world without station wagons is almost too much to bear.
The Volvo V90 briefly disappeared a few years ago, only to reappear as endearing and luxurious as ever. This 2024 model, the only V90 available, is a Cross Country, and it needs to be saved. I once owned a 2004 Volvo XC70, which I adored despite its eventual mechanical issues. That experience has only solidified my love for Volvo wagons.
If you have a budget of $70,000 or more, don’t just settle for an XC60, XC90, or any other premium SUV. Consider the V90 Cross Country. Nothing screams premium more than a full-sized station wagon. Let’s put it this way: Those who know will know that you know what real elite and premium transportation is.
In Canada, the base trim (Plus) starts at $70,200. For that price, you get a 9-inch display, a 12-inch digital instrument panel, 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, leather heated front and rear seats, a power lift gate, Apple CarPlay, and Google Assistant. The Ultimate trim, which I reviewed, starts at $77,500 and includes 21-inch wheels, rear air suspension with 4C adaptive chassis, and Bowers & Wilkins audio, bringing the total to about $85,000.
The V90 Cross Country is a stunning vehicle. Its design, from the Thor headlights to the sleek rear profile, is impeccable. Oddly, the 21-inch wheels look a bit off, but the optional 20-inch wheels fit perfectly. The Platinum Gray color is nice, but the Denim Blue option is absolutely gorgeous. Ideally, I prefer more rubber and would to 19-inchers if it was possible.
The interior of the V90 Cross Country is to die for. The seats are thin yet comfortable, with multiple adjustments. The fit and finish are fantastic, with beautiful wood trim and Bowers & Wilkins speaker grilles. The 9-inch screen is adequate, but given the price, a larger screen might be expected in future models. Though I’m far more familial with Apple CarPlay, Google Assistant has grown on me thanks to its intuitive menus and user-friendliness. The 12-inch digital instrument panel is clear and customizable.
Driving the V90 Cross Country is a luxurious experience. The optional air suspension and 4C adaptive chassis make the ride exceptionally smooth, even on rough roads – if any options are to be added to the Ultimate trim, this is it. The B6 mild hybrid powertrain, which includes a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0L4-cylindre with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivers 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Polestar Engineered Optimisation is a $1,400 option that should be considered also though the powertrain’s base output is perfectly fine… The 8-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth, although it can occasionally hesitate to upshift.
Fuel consumption is a bit higher than Volvo’s estimates. While Volvo claims 9.5 L/100 km, my mixed driving average was around 12.2 L/100 km. Realistically, expect between 10.5 and 11 L/100 km. Strangely, the V90 Cross Country can tow up to 3,500 lbs in the U.S. and 2,100 lbs in Canada, still making it suitable for towing small trailers or boats.
The 2024 Volvo V90 Cross Country is a truly luxurious station wagon. It offers a cosseting and satisfying driving experience that rivals and surpasses even the best premium SUVs. If you’re considering an XC60, X3, or Q5, do yourself a favor and check out the V90 Cross Country.
It is the perfect vehicle for those who value individuality, luxury, and practicality.
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