Why Choose the 2025 Volvo V90 Cross Country Wagon versus a Traditional SUV?
March 31 2025,

The crossover and SUV market continues to dominate North American roads, yet the 2025 Volvo V90 Cross Country presents a compelling alternative that challenges conventional thinking about utility vehicles. This premium wagon delivers SUV capability with distinct advantages in driving dynamics, efficiency, and versatility—all wrapped in sophisticated Scandinavian design that stands apart from the crowd.
For drivers who value both performance and practicality, the V90 Cross Country offers a refined solution that excels in ways traditional SUVs simply cannot match. Its balanced approach prioritizes the driving experience while providing the space, technology, and capability modern lifestyles demand, creating a premium vehicle for those who choose substance over trends.
Superior Driving Dynamics
The V90 Cross Country's lower centre of gravity creates an immediate dynamic advantage over taller SUVs. This fundamental difference translates into more precise handling, reduced body roll in corners, and a more connected feeling with the road. You'll appreciate this enhanced control during everyday driving and especially on winding roads where the wagon format truly shines.
Powered by a 295 hp mild hybrid powertrain, the V90 Cross Country accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds, delivering performance that rivals many sport-focused SUVs. The mild hybrid system recovers energy during braking and stores it in a 48V battery, providing additional power when needed while reducing fuel consumption.
The all-wheel drive system works seamlessly with Off Road mode, Hill Descent Control, and the optional Active Chassis with rear Air Suspension to provide confidence on challenging surfaces without compromising on-road refinement. The wagon's 195 mm ground clearance handles rough terrain while maintaining a more accessible step-in height than most SUVs.
Practical Space Utilization
While SUVs often appear larger from the outside, the V90 Cross Country maximizes interior space efficiency through its wagon design. The 551-litre cargo area expands to an impressive 1,517 litres with the rear seats folded, creating a flat load floor without the lip often found in SUVs, making loading and unloading large items significantly easier.
The power tailgate includes hands-free functionality, allowing you to open the cargo area by simply moving your foot under the rear bumper when your hands are full. The V90 Cross Country's lower roof height compared to SUVs also makes securing bikes, kayaks, or roof boxes more manageable—no step stool required.
Inside, five occupants enjoy ample space with thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin. The panoramic roof creates an open, airy feeling while maintaining better headroom than many SUVs with similar features. Rear seat passengers benefit from dedicated climate controls, heated seats, and excellent visibility without the confined feeling sometimes present in SUVs with more aggressive styling.
Efficiency and Environmental Consideration
The V90 Cross Country achieves a combined fuel economy of 9.5 L/100 km, a figure that outperforms comparably sized traditional SUVs. This efficiency comes from the wagon's more aerodynamic profile, lower weight, and advanced mild hybrid technology.
Beyond fuel economy, the lower physical footprint means less material used in manufacturing and a reduced environmental impact throughout the vehicle's lifecycle. Your choice of a wagon over an SUV represents a more responsible approach to luxury transportation without sacrificing utility or comfort.
Design That Stands Apart
In a sea of increasingly similar-looking SUVs, the V90 Cross Country offers distinctive Scandinavian design with clean lines and perfect proportions. The lower profile presents a more elegant, sophisticated appearance while maintaining visual strength through muscular wheel arches and rugged lower body cladding.
Inside, the Swedish approach to luxury focuses on genuine materials and thoughtful details. The crystal gear shifter by Orrefors, ventilated Nappa leather upholstery, and genuine Grey Ash décor create a premium environment that feels special rather than mass-produced. The uncluttered dashboard with a 9-inch centre display epitomizes Scandinavian minimalism while providing intuitive access to the built-in Google services.
Capability Without Compromise
The V90 Cross Country handles light off-road duties with confidence. The intelligent AWD system, increased ride height, and specialized driving modes ensure traction on slippery surfaces, while Hill Descent Control manages steep descents automatically. Unlike many SUVs, these capabilities come without the penalties of excessive weight, poor fuel economy, or compromised handling.
Advanced driver assistance features provide additional confidence in all driving scenarios. The 360° camera system gives you complete visibility around the vehicle during tight manoeuvres, while Pilot Assist reduces driver fatigue on long journeys by handling steering, acceleration, and braking on well-marked roads.
The V90 Cross Country proves that you don't need an SUV to venture beyond paved roads. Its balanced approach delivers genuine capability alongside the superior driving experience that comes from a vehicle designed around the driver rather than maximum visual height and presence.
For drivers who value substance over perception, the 2025 Volvo V90 Cross Country delivers SUV versatility with wagon advantages. It provides the space, capability, and technology modern lifestyles demand without unnecessary bulk or compromised driving dynamics.
Visit Volvo Cars Oakville today and take the V90 Cross Country for a drive through your daily routes and favourite weekend escapes. Feel how a wagon transforms both ordinary commutes and extraordinary adventures with its perfect balance of luxury, versatility, and performance.