Sedan? Fastback? Liftback? The choice is yours as the new Volvo ES90 flagship can be any, or all, of those descriptors but, of more relevance, the electric car raises the bar on battery life with a claimed range of 750 kilometres on a single charge.
And, talking ‘bar’ the base model – the Core – launches at one and a half bar and goes up to R1 795 000 for the Ultra, which I drove at the launch event in the Natal Midlands through a mix of highway and nicely curving roads.
Take a tour through the full spread of Volvo models we have on offer - click here
The model, which uses an 800-volt electrical system, can charge from 10% to 80% in 25 minutes when connected to a compatible DC fast charger and is built on Volvo’s SPA2 electric architecture, shared with the EX90.
It is powered by a 92 kWh battery and has a claimed energy consumption figure of 15,9 kWh/100 km based on WLTP testing standards. The rear-wheel drive model produces 245 kW and 480 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 6,6 seconds. Top speed is limited to 180 km/h.
At 5 000 mm in length, it is a big vehicles but once inside that parking lot gobbling form goes away and both myself and my driving partner on the day were able to get in a few point-and-squirt cornering manoeuvres while checking out the variable suspension and ride settings.
The wheelbase is 3 102 mm and has a width of 2 120 mm including mirrors. Boot space is rated at 446 litres, expanding to 1 427 litres with the rear seats folded. A 27-litre frunk provides additional storage.
You are just one click away from finding the very best finance deal for your new car
Standard safety features across the range include Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information with Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping Aid and a head-up display. Higher specification levels add Pilot Assist, a 360-degree camera, and upgraded Park Assist functionality. The vehicle is fitted with nine crash bags and ISOFIX mounting points.
The Core version includes four-zone climate control, a panoramic roof, Nordico upholstery, and heated front seats. The Plus specification adds an air-purification system and four-way lumbar support. The Ultra trim includes an electrochromatic panoramic roof, soft-close doors, massage front seats and laminated glass.
The Bowers & Wilken sound system with 27 speakers was specially designed for the Volvo and the sound is immense.
On the drive we monitored the battery discharge, especially under heavy acceleration and our consensus was realistic everyday use would give between 650 km and 700 km, which means this is a car that can be used for longer trips (and in sublime comfort) and could run for two weeks doing the daily short-haul office, school and shops trips.
Bumper bashings or break-ins – for the best insurance deal click here
The vehicle comes with a five-year or 100 000 km maintenance and warranty plan, an eight-year battery warranty and five years of unlimited roadside assistance. Customers will receive two years of free public charging, a GridCars wallbox with installation, and 10 GB of Vodacom data per month for three years.
So, load up Iron Maiden, turn up the volume and ‘Run To The Hills’.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
proudly ALL THINGS MOTORING
