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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  Volvo XC90 V8 - 2006 Volvo XC90
  By NHMan - September 24 - 1:33 pm

  Last vehicle was a 2004 Acura MDX. The XC90 has a better, with the V8, engine and transmission. Very comfortable with most of the controls in a good position. Only have 700 miles but have been averaging 19 mpg. Only driven it in the rain but the handling, while not sporty, is good. If you want a good overall SUV, this should be high on your list. Any BMW X5 will offer better handling and performance but doesnt have the cargo space.

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  Mixed feeling after nearly a year of ownership - 2016 Volvo XC90
  By CN - September 22 - 8:22 am

  My wife and I purchased the car last year after narrowing down the choices to this and an MB GL350 diesel. I preferred the Benz, but this car was for my wife and she liked it better. Between the two it is the better overall value option. Ours has every major option except the trailer hitch and HUD. Overall, its been a good car, but there are some nagging design faults that really detract from it. First up is the HUD. Im 6 2", and it was not possible to adjust the system to permit me to see it clearly; the top edge was always cut off, hence one of the reasons we didnt get that option. Next are the seats. They are the most uncomfortable seats I have ever had to suffer through. After nearly a year of driving it I still cant adjust them to a comfortable position. The seat bottoms literally pinch my butt on the drivers side. On the passenger side my tail bone sits directly on the seam for the extendable thigh support. The lumbar support in the seat back cant be set in a position that works for me for long periods. The seats in our car are the contour models (I think); maybe the comfort seats dont have these issues. For me, the 2nd row seats are far more comfortable. My wife is 5 3" and she doesnt have any issues with the seats. My recollection is the Swedes are pretty tall, so why cant they make a seat that fits a tall person? The next item is the cruise control. The controls are backwards in that a single button press adjust the speed up (or down) by 5 mph, while press and hold adjusts by 1 mph. These actions should be reversed. The infotainment/electronic systems occasionally glitch, though software updates seem to have generally improved their operation. The most serious glitch, experienced by me and my wife separately, has been the emergency braking warning going off for no reason, accompanied by the automatic emergency braking. This occurred to each of us on the highway. Fortunately, traffic was light during both instances, and the action was momentary. Fuel economy is, frankly, lousy considering the engine size. Were averaging around 21-22 mpg in mixed driving. The best weve managed was about 25 mpg on a 450-miles trip. Our Odysseys engine is nearly twice the size and that car gets nearly 30 mpg on the highway. And, its a larger car (and weighs the same). Compounding the low fuel economy is the ridiculously small fuel tank. 18.5 gallons? Seriously? It should be at least 20, preferably more given the lousy economy. Volvo really missed an opportunity by not offering a V6, or bringing the diesel to the U.S. On the plus side, the infotainment system is easy to use. The ride with the air suspension is sublime. It feels like a tank. Fit and finish, and materials are first rate and every bit on par (or better) than the Germans. The biggest plus in my book, though, is that my wife absolutely loves the car, so its a keeper.

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  Always in the Shop! Stay Away - 2008 Volvo XC90
  By Volvo XC-90 - September 17 - 2:43 pm

  I was fooled into buying the XC-90 after the arrival of our first child. Truth is, this has been the worst car weve ever purchased. It drives, but constantly in the shop for several issues, including AC problems, allignment issues, electronics, mechanical, and at one point, they had to replace both front axles completely! Dont be fooled by the safety recommendations, all newer luxury SUVs have good overall safety ratings. Further, the car has horrible traction control in rainy conditions. If you do decide to purchase, please buy the AWD. I do not let my wife and child drive this car when it rains.

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  LOVE IT! - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By dcardblue - September 14 - 2:20 am

  If you are looking for an SUV that is fun to drive and is tops in safety, you have to get a Volvo XC-90. It is also luxurious, comfortable and I just love mine!

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  Quality Control Doesnt Exist - 2007 Volvo XC90
  By mountaintown - September 12 - 4:20 am

  In the shop multiple times since purchasing. Squeaks and rattles still not fixed. Problems with 3 separate car systems. I feel like Volvo has stolen my money. Avoid until Quality Control improvements documented.

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  Nice Ride - 2007 Volvo XC90
  By VolvoDriver - September 9 - 1:06 am

  Enjoy every bit of this car. Handles better than the 2003 S60 we owned prior to this purchase.

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  Have NOT Experienced Any Negatives - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By Jack - September 6 - 4:23 am

  My wife and I ordered our XC-90 through a local dealership then went over to Sweden to test drive it for a week. Volvo shipped it back for us 10 days later. The vehicle has been perfect for the past 6 years. I am however, quite concerned with all the negative reviews here. Of all the vehicles Ive owned throughout my life, I must admit that this XC-90 beats them all by far.

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  mysterious noises, radio changes station - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By david carter - August 31 - 5:46 pm

  For $51K one would think that vibrational noises would be non existent. On wash board dirt roads or hitting a bump in the road just right there is a harsh rattle/thumping sound coming from the left suspension. This can be felt in the steering column.There is a disturbing wind noise from the right quarter panel area at 60 mi or above. There is a strange click sound from the tail gate that happens every few minutes, this even occurs when the car is still. Most frustrating is the radio and cd player change stations or tracks on its own. The car has 2000 mi on it,has been in the shop off and on for over a mo.and problems persists. Spoke to the owner today, not even an apology. Very disappointed

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  The SUV to Drive - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By MLB2003 - August 26 - 2:00 am

  After much anticipation I finally test drove this vehicle and have already put my order in. The drive is smooth and quiet and the interior is so luxurious. It has great handling and there is room for me to put groceries in the back with the 3rd row seat in. The safety features alone really impressed me and I LOVE the booster seat that comes with the versatility package. Now I can hand my son his juicy juice with ease. Weve always wanted an SUV and now we are so glad we waited. This is undeniable the car for our family.

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  How Swede it is - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By SoCalVolvoowner - August 24 - 10:00 am

  In car-crazy Southern California, this stands out from all the rest. Color (a green metallic that I did not think Id like and actually love) wheels, and overall style all catch the eye of my freeway companions. Its pretty zippy, although for really fast get-up-and-go I wish Id sprung for the T6, but I dont eat as much gas in the T5 and its quick enough for most of my driving.