Peaky Blinder!

This plug-in hybrid XC90 gives clean propulsion in the urban environment from the 145 hp electric motor plus plenty of poke from the 310 hp 2.0, 4 cylinder petrol engine for motorways and escaping to the country. (When the two power units work together, that’s a whopping 455hp to take this big vehicle to 112 mph if you wish).Reassuringly there’s 4WD plus every type of safety equipment on tap to protect and serve while optimum ambient comfort provides the most refined mode of transportation.

Volvo drivers will know that their car badge is an instant passport to warm recognition and approval. The same is not always true of other makes. The XC90 presents itself as purposeful and graceful looking. Big enough to carry seven (deploying a clever extra rear seat facility) this is never going to be a car built for Lilliput. And yet it conceals enormous carrying capacity beneath the smooth styling. It has the sort of presence you can’t ignore - though, of course, without any hint of vulgarity.

Where, I wondered, might I find six willing passengers to treat them to the Volvo experience. I needed to look no further than a troupe of theatrical performers who tour primary schools.

Tip Top - as they are called - were inconvenienced on account of their old van needing repair. So it was that yours truly plus six passengers and equipment set out for a school in the Peak District.

My troupe were shorter in the tooth than I and it was good to have their fresh perspective on things. One misguided member seemed convinced that the old van was more eco-friendly than any new car. I quickly disabused him of this view pointing out the Volvo’s latest technology.

After driving through Buxton along twisty roads we were soon elevated among the high spots enjoying views characteristic of the Peak District. That was when the eco-conscious young man uttered a quip that had us all groaning aloud.

“This car” opined the conscientious thespian “Is certainly a Peaky Blinder!”

by Syd Taylor