Overview & Reviews

Volvo does things a little differently from other premium brands in the automotive world. For this Swedish manufacturer, safety and kid-friendliness are just as important as luxury amenities and driving performance, and in no vehicle is this more apparent than the Volvo XC90, a midsize seven-passenger SUV.

Innovative safety features aside, the XC90 is merely adequate relative to the premium midsize SUV competition. Zestier performance is available elsewhere, as are more cavernous cargo holds and more modern electronics features. With more and more modern competitors measuring up to Volvo's high safety standards, the aging XC90 isn't the slam-dunk for families that Volvo products used to be. It remains capable, though, and arguably safer than ever thanks to some new tricks.

Current Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 is a seven-passenger luxury crossover SUV that comes in two different trim levels: 3.2 and sportier 3.2 R-Design. Available with front- or all-wheel drive, the XC90 has a 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine rated for 240 horsepower. It's paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Standard equipment highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, rear parking sensors, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, eight-way power front seats, a built-in child booster seat, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and an eight-speaker sound system that includes an iPod/USB audio interface. The 3.2 R-Design adds 19-inch alloys, a sport-tuned suspension/steering system, sporty exterior styling cues, a sport steering wheel and special leather upholstery. Major options include adaptive bi-xenon headlamps, a rear entertainment system with dual screens, a DVD-based navigation system and a surround-sound audio system.

On the road, we've found that the XC90 drives just as you'd expect a safe, heavy Volvo SUV to drive. Acceleration from the inline-6 is just adequate. Those looking for more energetic performance should know that the previously available V8-powered models are considerably more satisfying to drive. Ride quality is smooth and the cabin stays quiet, while handling is competent but not particularly sporty. Equipped with AWD, the XC90 makes an excellent snow vehicle but isn't intended for serious off-road romps.

To its credit, the XC90 has a first-rate interior, good overall driving dynamics and excellent safety scores. The trouble is, most rivals offer these attributes as well as fresher designs. In addition to Volvo's own XC60, we'd suggest you also consider the Lexus RX and Volkswagen Touareg if a third row isn't required. If it is, then we'd suggest the Acura MDX, BMW X5, Buick Enclave and Ford Flex. The Volvo XC90 is certainly a nice luxury crossover, but it lacks an edge over the competition in both luxury and performance.

Used Volvo XC90 Models
The XC90 debuted for the 2003 model year with models that corresponded to engine size. The original base engine was a 208-hp, 2.5-liter turbocharged inline five-cylinder (known as the 2.5T) coupled to a five-speed automatic, which was replaced by the current 3.2 six-cylinder for '07. Used XC90 shoppers will also come across T6 models (sold from 2003-'05), which had a 268-hp, twin-turbocharged 2.8-liter inline-6 paired to a four-speed auto. Although acceleration was adequate with either of these turbo engines, their power delivery wasn't well suited for duty in a heavy SUV. However, if you test-drive either a T6 or 2.5T and find its performance to your liking, there's no reason not to buy it.

A 4.4-liter V8 joined the fray for '05. It was rated at 311 hp. For 2007 and '08, there was a surprisingly fun V8 Sport model, which added unique exterior trim, a firmly tuned suspension, 19-inch wheels, quicker steering, heavily bolstered front seats, blue gauges and a sporty steering wheel. This was essentially replaced by the R-Design models for '09, which featured most of the Sport's mechanical enhancements, but could be had with the 3.2 engine as well. The V8 R-Design was dropped for 2010, while the following year would be the last for any V8 version of the XC90.

It should be noted that non-V8-powered XC90s were available in both five- and seven-passenger seating configurations until 2010, when the third row became standard. Other changes were restricted to the odd feature added here or there until '07, when the XC90 got slightly revised exterior styling. New standard features included an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio, while Volvo's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) was added to the options list. The V8's Executive package was added for 2009, and with items like massaging and ventilated front seats, a so-equipped XC90 would be quite a used car find.

User Reviews:

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  Good SUV - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By dabelko - October 31 - 1:46 pm

  A nice luxury SUV with three rows of seats, yet not too large. Mileage with 5 cylinder mirrors the EPA ratings (18- 24) much to my surprise. Visibility could be a little better. Seats have good support. Handling is pretty good for a SUV. Unfortunately they have begun to raise price.

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  VOLVO XC90 - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By Volvomania - October 28 - 2:00 am

  The XC90 is the most luxurious sport utility I have ever owned. With all the computers on-board, loosing traction is impossible, even in the hardest rain fall. This vehicle is glued to the ground. With all the extras for safety, I am never worried about my family driving it even in bad weather conditions.

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  Built Like a Rock - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By p1b - October 28 - 2:00 am

  Best mid sized SUV for safety and comfort. Plenty of power in the 2.5 version and decent mileage. Vehicle is easy to maneuver and fun to drive. This vehicle safely and comfortably seats children as well as adults. If you no longer need the size and bulk of a minivan and dont want the truck like qualities of most SUVs, this is one of the best choices.

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  Good Value for the Money - 2010 Volvo XC90
  By cabotcourt - October 27 - 11:10 pm

  I was apathetic about buying the XC90...too many of them on the road, until I saw the styling of the R-design package...definitely sets itself apart from the pack. The 5 year maintenance/wear and tear program and safety record was what ultimately sold me. Overall, very happy with the vehicle. Just wish it had better gas mileage. A few other minor annoyances like the brake pedal being too close to the gas pedal and the seats seem a bit narrow, but once you get used to these "quirks" they take a back seat to the overall value I think the vehicle offers.

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  absolute letdown - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By rayray - October 24 - 7:36 am

  Misery! Volvo forgot reliability is part of "safety." Where do I start with the 2005 V8 AWD "top of the line" for that year. First big problem: AC put out only HOT. Then the shifter/key start up had problems. Yearly, windows always need calibration as they would roll down by themselves. Then an ABS control failed and I could not start the car. After the pitiful 4yr/50k warranty ran out (car paid in full of course) the transmission failed after 70,000 miles, cost $6500 to fix, then there was the engine leak that after 4 months of diagnosing turned out to be a leaky engine BLOCK, so I needed a new engine after 80,000 miles. Dont get me started on the electrical system. Worse vehicle ever!

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  Excellent buy after much research - 2006 Volvo XC90
  By Jeff - October 15 - 6:43 pm

  I just drove this vehicle home from the factory and just love it. It is very solid, comfortable, and it looks fantastic! I got 21 mph in my first 1000 miles and the Premium sound is outstanding. I really like the power of the V8! It shifts smoothly and handles very well. Combined with the warranty and free dealer service, this was a very smart buy.

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  xc90 work car - 2006 Volvo XC90
  By Richard Fryman - October 14 - 10:20 am

  I bought it mostly for work and trips to Florida. So far a great car, plenty of get up and go. The spacious interior anddriver conforts were just what I was llooking for.

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  Stylish and Sporty with Volvo Safety - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By H. Lewis - October 13 - 10:03 am

  Overall, we are ecstatic and would highly recommend the XC90 T6 AWD! Definitely go with the T6 AWD for maximum enjoyment and we have had it for six months and average 20 mpg which I think is outstanding. Ours is black with black leather interior and turns heads everywhere we go (especially from BMW X5 owners(!)). We also opted for xenon headlights, nav system, high end stereo, 3rd row, integrated child booster seat (which has been perfect for our now 6 year old (5 when we bought it)), sunroof, wood steering wheel, etc. Have to make deals with wife to get chance to drive it as it puts ALL other vehicles (except Range Rover) in pickup line at kids private school to shame.

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  Transmission and AWD Problems - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By tracyt302 - September 29 - 3:56 am

  Bought new and replaced rear wheel bearings at about 50K miles replaced transmission and angle gear (AWD) at 94K. No assistance from Volvo. Very poor design flaw. Will not buy another Volvo. Replaced steering rack and power steering unit and another rear wheel bearing.

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  GREAT VEHICLE - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By DAVIS - September 27 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE OWNED ABOUT EVERY SUV ON THE MARKET AND I HAVE TO SAY FOR THE MONEY YOU WILL NOT FIND A BETTER VEHICLE