Is a used Volvo V90 Cross Country a good car?

Introduced locally in 2017, Volvo's V90 Cross Country is one of the last estate cars sold in South Africa, but is it a good pre-owned buy?

Sean Nurse

8 Jun 2022 · 15:00Buying a Car

1 / 3

Is a used Volvo V90 Cross Country a good car?

While the Volvo V90 Cross Country has sold in exceedingly low numbers since its introduction in 2017, there are still a handful of pre-owned examples for sale on AutoTrader, but are they worth looking at as a used proposition? We have compiled a list of pros and cons.

Related: Everything that you need to know about the Volvo V90 Cross Country

Known problems

The air suspension system in early models was known to collapse on one side, but this issue was fixed under warranty.
The Engine Control Module (ECM) has been known to not depressurize the fuel system, causing tank deformation, but this was replaced as part of a recall
There was a recall on the models due to a bad welding point between the engine rotor shaft and the hydraulic brake unit, which was known to cause brake-related issues
The fuse that runs the fuel pump is known to blow, meaning the car will not get fuel and therefore will not start
There are some electric problems known to plague the V90, including a glitchy instruments cluster, sunroof malfunctions and issues with the start/stop system

Pros

Pre-owned diesel derivatives can be had for roughly 35% lower than a new mild-hybrid model
The V90 Cross Country is exceptionally practical with a 560-litre boot and seating for five occupants
Reasonable off-road ability with impressive on-road dynamics
The vehicle is incredibly safe and is packed with semi-autonomous driving features

Cons

As an off-road estate car, it may prove difficult to sell in the local market
The V90 is not known to be very efficient
The infotainment system on pre-facelift models will feel dated by today's standards
Some of the models have large wheels and low profile tyres which are less than ideal for off-roading

Verdict

So, should you go out and buy a pre-owned V90 Cross Country? In short, yes, if you are after an off-road-ready estate car, the V90 is essentially your only option locally, however, since they are scarce, getting your preferred colour and engine may prove difficult.

Written by Sean Nurse

With a lifelong passion for cars, bikes, and motorsport, Sean knew that attaining a degree in journalism would allow him to pursue his passion, which was to be a motoring journalist. After graduating in 2012, Sean was awarded a bursary from the SAGMJ which allowed him to work for a variety of motoring publications. This was a dream come true for Sean, and after a year of gaining vital industry experience, he was hired as a motoring journalist at a local newspaper and worked his way up to editor. In 2020, Sean joined the AutoTrader team and counts himself lucky to wake up and genuinely love what he does for a living.Read more