Some trips feel like admin. This wasn’t one of them. We pointed the nose of the Volvo XC90 T8 Ultra Dark out of the driveway—finished in an understated white—loaded with kids, bags, and the kind of optimism only a family road trip can summon, and aimed it at Bergwater Campsite.
On paper, the T8’s a bit of a science project: Twin Engine PHEV, 340kW and 709Nm split between petrol and electric, driving all four wheels via an 8-speed Geartronic and that clever ERAD rear axle. In practice? It’s silk. Around town and through the early stretch, it glides in near silence. Then the road opens up and suddenly you remember—5.3 seconds to 100km/h in something this big isn’t normal. It never feels urgent, just effortlessly fast. Like it’s doing you a favour.
The numbers are almost comical in context: claimed 1.8l/100km, 40g/km CO₂, backed by a 71-litre tank. Of course, real-world depends on how and where you drive, but the point is clear—this thing covers ground with serious efficiency when you play along.
Inside, it’s peak Volvo. Clean, calm, beautifully resolved. The kind of cabin that lowers your heart rate. The boys settled in almost immediately—which, if you have kids, is the ultimate benchmark. No complaints, no fidgeting. Just quiet contentment and the occasional snack negotiation.
Heading out toward Rawsonville, the scenery starts to show off—vineyards, mountains, that endless Cape sky—and the XC90 just leans into the moment. It’s composed, unflustered, always one step ahead of whatever you ask of it.
Then came the gravel.
This is usually where big luxury SUVs get a bit precious. Not here. The XC90 just shrugged it off. The ride stayed settled, traction was never a question, and there’s a quiet confidence in the way it deals with the rough stuff. It might look like it belongs outside a boutique hotel, but it’s not afraid of a dirt road detour.
We rolled into camp in style—no dust-induced drama, no frazzled nerves. Just that sense that the journey mattered as much as the destination.
At R1,936,500 (including VAT), with a 5-year/100,000km warranty and full maintenance plan to match, it sits firmly in the upper tier—but it earns its place. Not by shouting, but by delivering, consistently.
The Volvo XC90 remains a firm favourite. The smart motorist’s ultimate SUV—high in driving satisfaction, burdened with style and comfort. And while it wouldn’t be your first choice for a camping trip, it might just end up being your favourite.