Volvo ES90 Test Drive: Features of a 'Ride Quality Machine' Balancing Between Sedan and SUV

Volvo's new electric vehicle, the ES90, is drawing attention as a 'dream car for dads' by breaking the unique boundaries between a sedan and an SUV. According to a video from Kim Han-yong's MOCAR, the Volvo ES90 takes the form of a CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) that simultaneously possesses the space utility of an SUV and the sleek design of a sedan.

Design and Space Utility that Blurs the Boundary Between Sedan and SUV

The most significant feature of the Volvo ES90 is its body shape. While the exterior is designed with a low belt line to give a slim and long feeling like a sedan, the trunk adopts a method of opening upwards like an SUV. Through this, it has secured ample cargo space that would be hard to imagine in a sedan. In the video, it can be confirmed that the trunk capacity is wide enough to load two carriers standing upright.

The interior space is also distinctive. The seat position is located at a midpoint between the feeling of sitting high like an SUV and sitting like a sedan. While the rear seat legroom is very generous, it is a characteristic that the lower space may be somewhat limited when stretching out the legs because the seat cushion part is designed to be low. Additionally, it includes a function to adjust the ride height using air suspension when loading and unloading luggage, increasing convenience.

Laminated Glass Applied to All Windows and Overwhelming Quietness

In terms of driving performance, the ES90 shows a level of quietness worthy of being evaluated as a 'ride quality machine.' The video emphasized that road noise or external noise hardly enters the cabin. To achieve this quietness, Volvo applied laminated glass to all windows, from the glass roof to the side windows. This distinguishes it from the common practice of applying it only to the windshield or certain side windows.

Furthermore, a high belt line was designed to block noise entering through the doors, and active internal sound-absorbing measures were taken to minimize pattern noise such as tire friction noise. In terms of driving control, the feel of the brake and accelerator pedals is set very finely. Unlike the sporty Polestar, which shows strong braking force, the Volvo ES90 provides a comfortable driving experience worthy of a premium electric vehicle through smooth and detailed deceleration.

However, regarding design, opinions were mentioned that the rear tail lamps are gathered too centrally, leaving some regret in terms of proportions, and that under domestic regulations, the vertical lamps (DRL) are limited to being used only for welcome lamp purposes during driving, which was mentioned as a disappointing element.