The Mercedes-Benz EQC is all new for the 2020 model year.
Pros Plush cabin, refined handling, costs less than some competitors.
Cons Some rivals offer quicker acceleration, shorter driving range than some competing models, infotainment system's touchpad comes with a learning curve.
Pros All-electric powertrain Familiar and handsome styling Impressive performance Spacious interior Customizable regen
Cons Is 200 miles enough range? May be too conservative for some Too late?
The first Mercedes-Benz EV is deliberately free of revolutionary tendencies, but for many of its SUV customers it could be an introduction to a new world of motoring.The first Mercedes-Benz fully electric vehicle (EV) to be sold in Australia has arrived. It's called the EQC and is targeted at the Jaguar I-Pace, Tesla Model X, and imminent Audi e-tron.
Pros Quiet, wafting driving experience Loaded with cabin tech Outstanding safety credentials Understated design a genuine point of difference
Cons Moderate driving range Back seats and boot nothing special Front suspension can get crashy Supply appears to be quite limited
For 2019, the XC90 has no major powertrain updates but some new standard features and updated option packages. Every model now has updated infotainment software, third-row seating, heated washer nozzles, a 12-volt outlet in the cargo area, and four-zone climate control, among other things. The higher trim levels have a Harman/Kardon premium stereo, navigation, sun shades in the rear side windows, and a tailored dashboard and upper door panels.
Pros Astonishingly beautiful, solid driving dynamics, safety by Volvo.
Cons Can approach starter-home prices, minor powertrain flaws, base trim lacks the lineup’s best features.
The 2019 Volvo XC90 is a standout effort from the Swedish brand, offering style, luxury, and practicality in a way many other luxury SUVs don’t.
Pros Svelte Swedish looks Less-is-more interior Tablet-like infotainment Wide variety of models and trims Standard safety tech
Cons Not worth six figures at top end Base powertrain lacks oomph Rear seats could use more support Questionable materials in places
Base AWD models get heated seats and four-zone climate control.R-Design and Inscription models get new Harman Kardon stereo.Convenience and Momentum Plus packages eliminated from lineup.Advanced and Multimedia packages added to options.The 2019 Volvo XC90 is a three-row luxury SUV with broad appeal. At base trim levels, it's full of high-tech safety features and luxurious cabin materials, and it even starts at a reasonable price.
PROS Elegant styling inside and out Precise handling that inspires confidence Spacious second- and third-row seating for a midsize SUV Many standard safety technology features
CONS Overly busy ride quality for a vehicle in its class Some touchscreen controls can be hard to use Excessive road and engine noise Difficult to stop smoothly
