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 - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By rht - September 22 - 10:00 am

  Very solid ride. Third row seating much more spacious than the Lexus GX470 or LX470.

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  my 2nd xc90 - 2006 Volvo XC90
  By Derrick - September 20 - 9:56 am

  This is our second xc90, we loved our 2004, but we wanted the rear entertainment package, so we traded for a 2006 with everthing. After looking at some other SUVs recently due to co-workers buying new ones I wouldnt trade mine for anything else Ive seen out yet.

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  Ocean Race 2006 - 2006 Volvo XC90
  By Branko from Slovenia - September 11 - 11:46 am

  The last OCEAN RACE EDITION in Europe. Be happy with this car like Im. Nice regards from Slovenia. Branko

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  Best Kept Secret - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By Hand - September 11 - 10:00 am

  The XC90 T6 AWD 7-passenger was truly like finding a diamond in the rough. Its ride and handling is amazing compared to my previous ML-320 and frequent rides in a MDX and Lexus R330 - firm and positive, but comfortable and reassuring. The interior feature controls are simple and straightforward and all the features are there for simple execution. This expecially applies to the VAC and the pop-up navigation system which uses a click and point system like a computer running Windows.

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  Volvo XC90 T8 Hybrid is a Beast!!!!! - 2016 Volvo XC90
  By MilesM - September 9 - 11:48 am

  I own a brand new 2016 XC 90 T8 Hybrid. As stated in many reviews, it is an awesome, awesome car!!! It is a BEAST!!!!! Beautiful exterior styling, and very smartly designed interior. The T8 Hybrid is a perfect combination of Eco mode (electric) for short trips, and power mode (gas) for longer trips (very fuel efficient engine). Power is stunning ( not quite Tesla, but at a better price point), for a 4 cylinder (who would have thought a 4 cylinder and electric motor could punch out almost 400 HP). Add the safety components, and this is almost the perfect car for todays market. Great job Volvo. You have hit the SUV "sweet spot". The perfect combination of form and function. I am glad to say I am one of the first owners of this great vehicle. May Volvo find much success and thrive in the future. The XC90 (especially the hybrid T8) is a thoroughbred.

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  Less than thrilled- Consider the T5 - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By farsidejohn - September 7 - 2:00 am

  I am not delighted with this car. There is a noticeable squealing whenever I back off the accelerator. The problem (thought to be turbocharger back-pressure) is currently "under investigation" by Volvo. The windshield washers are loose and turn on their own. Not the kind of build quality you would expect on a $40K+ car. Fuel economy on the T6 is awful. In summary, there are no major problems but this is not what I expected for $43K. Do not overlook the T5 version as it is nearly as fast as the T6 with smoother performance due to the 5 speed transmission. It also has much better fuel economy. If I had it to do over again, I would have bought the T5.

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  XC90 - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By Kelley Gordon - September 6 - 8:43 pm

  I feel weight off my shoulders- I sold my Volvo last weekend for a Subaru Outback. In spite of poor SUV value it was relief to be rid of the constant maintenance. I bought it as a new mom hoping for the reliabilty and safety Volvo is known for--instead I spent literally every week at Volvo servicing another check engine light, gasket loose, a power source issue, a low voltage warning...you name it. I spent more time arranging childcare for my trips to the dealership than I did driving my children in it. It makes me so angry because I worked hard saving to buy this "high quality" vehicle for my family. I wish Volvo understood or cared how diappointed I am.

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  Excellent Used Car Value - 2006 Volvo XC90
  By cjbluedevil06 - September 3 - 8:34 pm

  I purchased my XC90 2.5T in March. It is the third Volvo that I have owned and is by far my favorite. I traded in my 2004 S60 to buy the XC90. Many people say that the 2.5T engine is underpowered, but I feel that its 208hp feels peppy and is perfectly matched to the transmission. The handling feels confident and the seats are very comfortable. As far as cargo spaces is concerned, I am pleased. Fuel economy is decent for a vehicle of its size. I average about 17 in town and 23-24 on the highway. The cabin is quiet and the interior is composed of high quality materials. My vehicle has the optional navigation system, which is nice, but inputing information can be an annoyance.

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  Riding so smooth then clunk!Tranny! - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By Findurresolve - August 31 - 11:46 am

  This vehicle is hands down the most elegant, smooth, and did I say smooth vehicle I have ever driven. The seats are so comfy, and the steering wheel just feels like silk! But then the transmission issue. Do not buy a t6 awd unless it has had the transmission upgrade! I bought one used now Im looking at $8,000.00 in repairs. Volvo knows its a huge prob and will pay for parts in some cases.

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  XC90-- X-tra CUSHY! 90 percent better! - 2017 Volvo XC90
  By EXCELLING - August 30 - 2:25 pm

  Comfy seats meets outstanding luxury. Nice clean design. Great car! Only (maybe) questionable thing is maintenance costs down the road.