Launched in 2002, Volvo's XC90 quickly made its mark in an already crowded sports utility vehicle sector, receiving more than 50 international awards for its safety, design and environmental care.
A genuine seven-seater, the XC90 is a full-sized four-wheel drive that combines clean, elemental Scandinavian design with ample sophistication and performance to rank it against the likes of BMW's X5, and Audi's Q7.
Volvo's latest XC90 model has received a mild facelift that belies some hefty updates underneath the bonnet - and to the chassis in particular - that helps make this urban 4x4 a lot sharper to drive than its predecessor.
Two new engine choices for the Hong Kong market are the most noticeable features of the new XC90 - the 24-valve, 3.2-litre V6 turbo unit, and the 320bhp, 2.5-litre T2 turbo injection engine tested here.
Much like the T5 engine in the C70 coupe, the T2 unit is a refined affair that manages to remain composed despite having to propel the XC90's hefty 2 tonne weight. Progress is swifter than before with tighter gear ratios and a lower-down power band (most of the torque kicks in between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm) helping to get things moving.
The five-speed adaptive shift transmission pulls the SUV quickly up to pace with traffic and doesn't toil as much as you'd expect with steep inclines, and there's an unexpectedly immediate response when you floor the accelerator on the highway.
