6 December 2024
Swedish car brand Volvo has launched the new Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrid and invited me for a test drive through the beautiful region of Skåne. Starting with a spectacular ride over the Øresund Bridge, the route took us through the rolling countryside and picturesque villages of Sweden’s southernmost region, ending at the two-Michelin-starred Vyn Restaurant. Let’s go!
Design isn’t just about the destinations you visit; it’s also about the vehicle that takes you there. When you step into a car for a road trip, the journey begins immediately – whether it’s a long drive abroad or a day trip to a new hotspot in your own country. Nowadays car brands like Volvo no longer focus solely on getting you from point A to point B as quickly as possible; comfort, air quality, display controls, and material choices are all also vital considerations.
During the introduction of the Volvo XC90, senior interior designer Marie Stark and UX design team leader Magnus Johansson of Volvo were present. Marie highlighted the car’s new dashboard interior, showcasing the various types of wood they’ve used, all sourced from Sweden. The recycled premium Herringbone Weave textile adds a soft, homely touch to the interior. In addition to the standard colors (the Volvo in the photos has a Bright Dusk color), they’ve introduced a sophisticated Mulberry Red option.
Magnus Johansson focuses entirely on balancing safe driving with technology. Almost everything in the Volvo XC90 is integrated into the 11.2-inch display, where you can view your route, control your music, and adjust the intensity of the seat or steering wheel heating (an essential feature for the cold Swedish winter). The new model also emphasizes air quality for a healthier cabin environment, which is an extra plus for those prone to car sickness.
And how does the car drive? Smoothly. In an SUV, you sit higher for a better view, and the partial electric powertrain makes for a very quiet ride, further enhanced by the car’s calming color palette. The beauty of a plug-in hybrid is that you don’t have to worry about finding a charging station mid-journey. The driving range is 70 kilometers. For those who enjoy singing along during drives, the Bowers & Wilkins sound system with 19 (!) hi-fi speakers ensures an incredible audio experience. Please note: this is an extra option, the standard version comes with a Harman Kardon audio system with 14 speakers.
It’s an SUV, which of course means plenty of space. Perfect for road trips to places like Morentz, where you could easily bring along a chair or a small table. It’s also a great choice for family vacations, with ample room in the back for all your luggage. For those heading out on skiing or canoeing trips, equipment can be conveniently secured on the roof.
The test drive through Skåne concluded at Vyn Restaurant. This restaurant, led by chef Daniel Berlin, opened in October last year and was already awarded two Michelin stars in May. The menu is driven by the seasons and features primarily locally sourced ingredients, resulting in dishes like Kalix löjrom with caramelized celeriac and wild chamomile, fjord shrimp, langoustines, and fallow deer. You can read more about Vyn Restaurant on the Sweden page, which also includes additional tips for the region to help you plan the perfect road trip.
For more information, visit www.volvocars.com.
