The 2019 Cullinan breaks a lot of new ground for Rolls-Royce. It is the first Rolls to have all-wheel drive, the first with a hatchback, and—in a more modest step forward—the first to use touchscreens for its infotainment system. Yet all that fades into insignificance next to the most obvious difference between this and every other vehicle Rolls has made throughout its 112-year history: This is the company’s first SUV. The production version is keeping its development code name, Cullinan being the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found. With V-12 power and a price that we’re told will eclipse all its obvious rivals’, that model name seems appropriate. In what we can only assume is a knowing reference to Get Shorty, company CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös says it is the “Rolls-Royce of SUVs.”
The 2019 Cullinan is Rolls-Royce's first foray into the premium luxury SUV class.Part of the first Cullinan generation introduced for 2019.
Pros Unmistakable Rolls-Royce presence Interior craftsmanship is unparalleled An abundance of power from a turbocharged V12 Endless customization options
Cons Prohibitively expensive, even for the class Styling is awkward and bulky from many angles
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
