2020 Volvo V90 Cross Country Review

Looking for a vehicle that provides a roomy cabin, plenty of cargo space and modest off-road capability? Typically, the solution would be a crossover SUV. Yet there's an alternative for the SUV-averse in the 2020 Volvo V90 Cross Country.

Along with a sharp look and modern design, the V90 Cross Country offers exceptional interior comfort and serenity, an array of tech features and Volvo's reputation for safety. Its larger than Volvo's V60 or V60 Cross Country compact wagons, making it ideal as a vessel for the daily shuffle of family activities.

For 2020, the wagon carries over largely unchanged but has been pared down to a single trim level. There are a few new safety features — the car can automatically brake when it detects rear cross-traffic, for example — and a self-parking system now available as a stand-alone option.

Nice as it is, we've dinged the Cross Country for a harsher ride and louder cabin than we'd expect at this price point. And despite the name and taller ride height, it doesn't offer much more capability off-road than the standard V90 wagon. The all-wheel-drive system makes it functional enough, but there is no unique hardware to help the car cope with primitive conditions.

For supreme luxury off-roading, an SUV such as the Land Rover Discovery likely makes more sense. But if your travels mainly occur on pavement, with only occasional detours down a dirt road, the Cross Country is a solid choice.