Many of us reach the stage in life when a growing family dictates the choice of car. For some that means a conventional five-seat family car does not suffice, the body count being higher. Glide forward then one of my favourite seven-seaters, the Volvo XC90, tested by me many times over the years.

Volvo has recently launched it’s fully electric EX90, but for those not ready to fully embrace electric motoring, the XC90 in T8 form may well fit the bill.

The powertrain features 310hp petrol engine paired with a 145hp electric motor. The advantages are many, not least the low CO2 emissions of 30-36g/km. Low road tax and affordable Benefit In Kind figures for the company car user may well also appeal.
With the battery fully charged, Volvo claim up to 44 miles of electric only running should be possible. From my recent test I would say this is a tad optimistic, 30 miles being more the order of the day. Enough for many urban motorists to go about their everyday lives. There is also the option to save the battery for the urban leg of a longer journey.

Charging the 18.8kWh battery can be accomplished in around three hours, so with a driveway at home, the XC90 T8 owner can start each day with a full electric range.
Another big plus as far as I am concerned with the T8 setup is the performance on offer. This is no lumbering family bus. The acceleration on offer is impressive, ably demonstrated by the 0-62mph sprint figure of just 5.4 seconds. In the real world this means ample performance for brisk overtakes and the like.

Perhaps of more interest is the comfortable ride, thanks in part to the car’s adaptive dampers and air suspension. Most road surfaces are dismissed with disdain, with only the deepest of potholes upsetting the calm of the cabin.

In corners, the XC90 exhibits some body lean, which is typical for a vehicle of its size and class. However, it remains controlled and predictable, inspiring confidence for the driver. And with the performance available, cross-country dashes can be fun, although best enjoyed driving solo as I did for most of my test period.

Volvo makes some of the finest interiors of any manufacturer and as befitting one of their top models, the XC90’s cabin exudes elegance with high-quality materials. There’s spacious seating in the first two rows, with the third row best reserved for shorter adults or children. With the rear seats folded, the load space is generous to say the least, though travelling with seven on board means luggage space is somewhat limited. Time to get a roof box or trailer perhaps.

Volvo use Google technology in their infotainment system and for the most part I find it simple enough to use. As is now the way, there is a lack of physical buttons, so some functions require a fair amount of prodding the screen.

There are four trim levels on the XC90. All models feature four-zone climate control, heated steering wheel and front and middle row seats, keyless entry and a powered tailgate. Top spec Ultra models (as driven) come fitted with a premium Bowers & Wilkin sound system, a head-up display and front seat ventilation and massage functions.

Volvo has always led the way when it comes to safety and it will come as no surprise that the XC90 has a long list of features, such as autonomous emergency braking, Pilot Assist adaptive cruise control and a multitude of sensors and cameras. They can be over sensitive, which can be somewhat unnerving at times, but the argument will be better safe than sorry. Some features can be deactivated, which many drivers do. I have been known!

So, should a Volvo XC90 be in your shopping list? You will need a generous budget as T8 pricing starts at £72,760, rising to £84,260 for the Ultra test car. Most are likely to be leased company cars, so monthly payments from your favoured leasing firm is likely to make or break the deal. I found monthly deals from around £650 without too much digging.

I am sure the T8 version is the model to go for in the range, and with a recent facelift which includes updated styling with a new grille, headlights and bumper, the XC90 now looks better than ever. The powertrain offers spritely performance with great efficiency and the classy interior is sure to delight all those on board. And if you are ready for the full EV experience, I hope to be testing the EX90 on home turf very soon.