Volvo V90 Cross Country D5 AWD Ocean Race

The first Volvo Cross Country model, the V70 XC, was launched back in 1997. Now, just over 20 years later, the V90 CC is a similar top-selling station wagon, and this time the Volvo Ocean Race, a special model familiar from sailing circles, is on test drive.

The Volvo V90 is the largest station wagon in the range, and there really is a lot of size. The car is 4.94 metres long, over two metres wide with mirrors and weighs just under 1,900 kilograms. The boot space is generous, as is usual for Volvo station wagons. The total capacity is 560 litres.

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For the driver, the V90 offers a very identical view to the rest of Volvo’s range. In the centre of the dashboard is a large nine-inch touchscreen from the Sensus system.

TheSensus system is designed to make everyday motoring easier. In addition to traditional sat navs and Spotify, Sensus allows drivers to check the weather, use parking payment apps or search for information on Wikipedia, among other things.

Sensus allows the use of a wide range of applications and is by far one of the easiest to use systems on the market compared to its competitors.

In terms of usability, Sensus matches the current tablet world and one of the best features in such cold weather conditions is that the screen is responsive even with thick gloves.

Cross Country – increased ground clearance

The V90 feels like a big car when driven, and in the smallest places the corners of the car are easily a little obscured. The optional 360-degree parking assist makes it easier to perceive the corners, and the 11.6-metre turning radius helps when parking a big car.

The V90 is at its best on the highway and on less well-maintained remote roads. The ride is very stable and effortless. The standard semi-autonomous Pilot Assist II steering system is very conscientious about keeping the car in its lane, even in poor weather conditions.

Cross Country models have 21 centimetres of ground clearance, which has been increased by six centimetres from the standard V90. Externally, the Cross Country differs from the standard V90 model in the matting on the bumpers and skirts.

Ocean Race – updated bright colours

Volvo Ocean Race models are used to the blue exterior colour of previous models. The V90 Ocean Race has been given a refreshed look and now, in addition to the white paint finish, the exterior has been enhanced with matte grey trim and orange details.

The orange detailing also takes the appearance of the cabin to a new level. Inside, the Ocean Race is reflected in small details such as logos, orange stitching and the boot side panel comes standard with a torch and usb power supply.

The Ocean Race takes the high quality V90 to a new level, bringing a new level of vibrancy and personality to the exterior of the car. The new, more harmoniously styled V60 model is sure to slow the V90 market with its better looks and almost as much interior space. In terms of looks, however, this V90 Cross Country Ocean Race will win the battle between these models.

On an oceanic mission

There’s more to the Volvo Ocean Race name than good looks and logos on the side of the seats.

Volvo donated a total of €300,000 to the science programme during the production of the first V90 Cross Country Ocean Race models. The science programme focused on gathering more information about the characteristics of our oceans by equipping the Ocean Race racing boats with various sensors.

Data on temperature, pressure, currents, salinity, carbon dioxide and algae levels were collected from the oceans and their remote areas for partners such as the research organisation NOAA.

The V90 Cross Country Ocean Race also contributes to the fight against marine plastic waste. The floor covering is made of 100% nylon, Econyl. Econyl is also made from discarded fishing nets.

Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel
Peak power: 235 hp @ 4000 rpm.
Maximum torque: 480 Nm. @ 1750 – 2250 rpm.
Tare weight: 1882 kg.
Transmission: 8-speed Geartronic automatic
Drive mode: four-wheel drive
Starting price: €80 491 (V90 D4 AWD Ocean Race aut.), €63 646 (V90 Cross Country D4 aut.)

Antti’s reviews:

Overall rating in the Premium cars category: 4.1 / 5.0

Feeling vs. reason: The estate hatchbacks have been the Finnish favourite in the large and practical family hatchback segment for decades. The V90 Cross Country Ocean Race meets the most stringent requirements you’d expect from a station wagon. When it comes to Volvo, it’s rare to get too emotional, but this sailing-inspired model is sure to appeal to sailing enthusiasts and dreamers alike.

Car heat: Volvo knows how to design a station wagon. The V90 Ocean Race combines personality, practicality and a design that stands the test of time very well. With a conservative Volvo that can give you car fever of up to 40.0 degrees, it’s fair to say that Volvo has succeeded in so many ways with this model.