Instead of complaining online about the absence of the latest Volkswagen Golf R Estate in the US, some were surprised when Volvo made the decision to discontinue the Volvo V90 station wagon for the American market. Reports from Motor Trend and other sources confirmed this move, marking the end of an era for one of the more aesthetically pleasing wagons to grace our roads in recent years.
“Volvo will provide the V90 Cross Country in MY22 but streamline the lineup by discontinuing the base V90,” the manufacturer informed Autoblog. Previously, the V90 could only be custom-ordered in the US; now it can’t be ordered at all, unless you’re content with a slight increase in ground clearance and some additional plastic cladding.
Volvo
Launched in 2016, the V90 was part of a new breed of Volvo models that introduced sophisticated design, competitive luxury amenities, cutting-edge semi-automated driving technology, efficient hybrid propulsion systems, and a unique style distinct from the saturation of German vehicles. It was truly an exceptional vehicle; for those with the means and not craving AMG-like speed, the V90 certainly offered more than enough.
Despite its merits, it couldn’t overcome a formidable adversary: American indifference to wagons. Certainly, limiting it to custom orders did not favor the V90, but Volvo managed to move only around 1,500 units over three years in the US, with unclear figures on Cross Country variant sales. Most likely, a significant portion. Although the V90 bid farewell, its absence may not be deeply felt.
By now, it’s widely acknowledged that the automotive industry is veering heavily towards trucks, SUVs, and crossovers, a trend also prevalent in the crucial Chinese market. Even the new Volvo Concept Recharge, providing a glimpse into an electric, LiDAR-infused future, takes on a crossover guise with hints of wagon-esque design elements at best. The future beckons for elevated ride heights.
Let’s raise a toast for the V90 in America, anticipate lucrative deals on lightly driven models on Bring a Trailer in the coming years, and bear in mind: if wagons matter, back your words with action while you still have the chance.
