2025 Volvo EX90: A low-key luxury electric SUV

Volvo has long been a pioneer in the automotive industry, being one of the first major manufacturers to announce its commitment to an all-electrified future. This term encompasses a range of vehicles, including hybrids, both plug-in and mild. When focusing specifically on fully electric options, Volvo adopts a dual approach. At the more affordable end, we have the compact EX30 and the EX30 Cross Country, which are basic crossovers with a value proposition that may shift due to changing tariffs and the conclusion of the clean vehicle tax credit. On the opposite side, the EX90 stands out as a premium electric SUV, equipped with advanced technology that was still in development during our initial drive last autumn. Volvo has a history of providing understated luxury, positioning itself as a sensible alternative to the more ostentatious offerings from German manufacturers. While earlier generations saw many family doctors driving Volvo station wagons, today’s consumers often prefer vehicles that offer a higher driving position. Unlike the smaller EX30 models, the EX90's production in South Carolina helps it dodge the recent upheaval in the automotive market, avoiding import tariffs on the finished vehicle, aside from any components sourced from abroad. With a starting price set at $81,290, the EX90 also exceeds the threshold to qualify for the IRS 30D tax credit, which is scheduled to end by the close of September. Despite its impressive safety features and emissions-free operation, it remains to be seen how much influence these factors have in the broader automotive market. The EX90's design, characterized by its flat surfaces and a color known as Sand Dune, presents an interesting contrast against its sleek LED daytime running lights. However, the lidar system mounted on the roof does evoke comparisons to a London taxi. A unique touch is the vehicle's entry system, where the "Thor's Hammer" headlights perform a charming mechanical blink as you approach, reminiscent of a scene from a sci-fi classic featuring Will Smith chasing an alien around the Guggenheim.