The Volvo XC90 was only introduced last year and it has already been given some useful updates, with a boost to the responses of the popular D5 diesel and improvements to the already comprehensive roster of safety kit.

It’s no secret we love the XC90, but one of our few criticisms was the fact the D5 is outpaced by rivals like the Audi Q7, so can these additions rectify that?

Performance

With Volvo committed to only producing engines up to 2.0-litres in size, the diesel XC90 D5 has looked a little outgunned next to 3.0-litre diesel rivals from Audi, BMW and Mercedes, which have more power and torque. So, Volvo has come up with a solution called ‘PowerPulse’, a pressurised air compressor which can shoot a burst of air into the engine to get its turbos operating at full speed in the blink of an eye.

So, press the throttle quickly - as you would for an overtaking manoeuvre – and the XC90 is more willing than before, with a sudden surge of acceleration. Peak power has only increased by around 10bhp, but thanks to PowerPulse, the engine has double the power available during the first second you hit the accelerator pedal, practically eradicating the usual lag as turbo engines get going.

It’s a neat solution, and while it doesn’t exactly turn the XC90 into a sports car, the performance on offer will be more than enough for most drivers and boosts confidence that the XC90 will respond convincingly when you need it to.

Ride and Handling

Every XC90 comes with active four-wheel drive, which usually sends power to the front wheels to save fuel

Most SUV drivers expect a comfortable, serene driving experience, but they also don’t want boat-like body lean when a corner presents itself. On all three counts, the XC90 performs admirably. It’s not a sports SUV in the mould of hot versions of the BMW X5 or the Range Rover Sport, but it doesn’t need to be. Volvo drivers are far more likely to be concerned with a relaxed drive and safety, which is well catered for by the fairly soft and supple suspension and impressive grip from its wide tyres. The steering feel is very light, which makes the XC90 easier to drive in town than you might expect. However, it is possible to make it a bit more positive if you delve into the different driving modes and choose the sportiest settings. Every XC90 comes with active four-wheel drive, which usually sends power to the front wheels to save fuel, but can redistribute it to the tyres with most grip if you encounter a tricky situation. Optional air suspension is worth considering too, as it makes the ride even more comfortable.

Interior and Equipment

PowerPulse uses a shot of compressed air to spin the Volvo’s turbo from 20,000rpm to 150,000rpm in 0.3 seconds, reducing ‘turbo lag’. Its 2.0-litre air tank is constantly refilled to ensure a ready supply.

The XC90 is the first of a new generation of Volvo, with the S90 and V90 following in its footsteps. Sit inside and it’s not hard to tell, the interior has had almost all buttons eradicated from it, replaced with a sumptuous nine-inch, portrait ‘Sensus’ touch-screen. This controls many of the XC90’s functions, but without becoming confusing or annoying; it just works. Sensus now also includes the popular music streaming service Spotify as a native app. A TFT display also sits in the instrument cluster, making it easy to customise information and choose from several different themes. Trim levels are fairly simple, with Momentum, R-Design and Inscription all well-equipped from the off with adaptive cruise control, Pilot Assist (which now works at up to 80mph), a power tailgate, 19-inch wheels and climate control. The R-Design adds adaptive headlights, a sportier look inside and out, silver roof rails and ambient lighting, while Inscription brings a luxury flavour, with highlights including Nappa leather. Of course, safety is impressive too, with several improvements for the 2017 model year XC90. Run-off road mitigation can help steer the SUV to keep it on the road if it detects a risk of leaving the tarmac, while City Safety also now includes Large Animal Detection, to help avoid collisions with hazards including deer, horses and cattle.

Cost

Running costs are particularly good, with the D5 Momentum capable of 49.6mpg

Being a luxury SUV even in its most basic form, the XC90 doesn’t come cheap, starting from around £47k. This is a few grand more than the Volkswagen Touareg and BMW X5, but the XC90 does have a particularly high level of kit as standard. Running costs are particularly good, with the D5 Momentum capable of 49.6mpg and emissions of just 149g/km of CO2, making it as thrifty as some family hatchbacks and more economical than most of its rivals.

Our Verdict

It’s great to see Volvo is already introducing some improvements into the XC90, despite it being a very complete product from the off. Its PowerPulse technology seems like a smart solution to the common issue of turbo lag, and it should give drivers a useful performance boost, without driving up running costs.