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-worth the price - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By Harry - August 3 - 2:10 am

  I purchased the Volvo after Christmas at the same time my brother in law purchased a Volvo S 40, thinking we would get a better "deal". I had no trade in. I feel I met my objective. The XC 90 I puchased was the advertized "lead" car they used to get you in the store. The fit and finish is very good, performance on the road solid with good pick-up. Mileage is 18 to 21 MPG. The ride is smooth and storage space adequate for hauling lawn furniture purchased at Walmart and golf bags for the weekend outing. The safety features are outstanding. I attended the VOLVO Drive for Life Training at Dodger Stadium on 2/12/05 and now have a much better understanding of what the XC90 can do.

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  Didnt expect the clunky-ness - 2012 Volvo XC90
  By mtgvolvo - July 30 - 2:53 am

  Im bulletpointing those things that I find uninspiring: * putting key into ignition takes much accuracy * confusion with central controls for entertainment/ventilation - not intuitive * navigation - very confusing * the pop-up screen for rear assist and navigation being separate instead of built in. it powers upward when in reverse then returns in drive. Imagine going in reverse for 3 seconds and this screen going up hten down while youre driving forward. It sounds like the first component that will malfunction * must slam doors to shut * door lock/unlock system: it takes multiple presses to get the doors to unlock (except drivers) * no power for rear hatch * jerky acceleration

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  After 1 month - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By lens - July 27 - 2:00 am

  So far no bugs or defects. Excellent ride/handling. Very nice seats. 3rd row works and folds very conveniently. Flip down 2nd row headrests are nice for visibility. Interior very "clean" without dumb doodads. Nav system also works well and above-dash design makes it safer to consult while driving. Backup sensors also work, and are good for someone (like me) that has only driven sedans before this.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By ilv2laugh - July 25 - 10:30 pm

  I have owned my XC90 for two years now and I can tell you that I still LOVE it! I own the smaller engine model (T5) and I get 19.5 in the city and 26 on the highway MPG. Not bad considering any other luxury SUV gives you much less! People still stop me and tell me what a beautiful car I have. I feel very safe with my two toddlers in tow all around town.

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  Very Happy - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By Michele - July 25 - 1:40 pm

  My husband and I had never owned a Volvo before this one, and we are very pleased after the first year. We chose this SUV over others after attending the NYC car show, and we also have a neighbor who highly recommended it. It is much easier to drive than the minivan I used to have, and my husband felt that the XC90 is similar to but an improvement upon his Acura MDX that is about 5 years old. We have not had to make any repairs. The navigation system is great. The backup beeper is terrific for those hidden objects behind. I would highly recommend this vehicle.

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  nice suv - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By jaclyn - July 17 - 10:53 am

  This is our first high-end suv. I must say you get used to the creature comforts offered by this class of suv very quick. The performance is excellent, the ride is excellent for an suv, and the fit and finish is perfect. Fuel economy is okay, as we obtain an average of between 17 and 17.5. We also have a mid-priced suv, and all you need do is take a ride in each of them to see the difference. Other than scheduled service intervals, the only repair has been to a faulty cd player, and a tire vibration at 2k miles. The dealer replaced both items with new ones.

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  Couldnt be happier. - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By Washout - July 16 - 10:00 am

  Build quality: excellent. 0 defects. Steering: tight and assured. Fine acceleration. Cargo capacity: plenty yet easy access to extra seats. My mileage: 22 Highway 15 City. Interior materials feel solid, even the fake wood feels good. Control layout: intuitive and clear. Turning circle is too large. Smooth transmission, way better than T6. Considered the X5, but I couldnt be happier. Oddly crappy radio reception.

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  Proud to Drive my Volvo - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By vmcdevitt - July 15 - 1:03 pm

  Bought my car new and have been very proud of it, and have really enjoyed driving it. Will be passing it along to my 16 year old son and am confident it will be a safe and reliable car for him. Its the first car Ive owned past 2 years (were on year 6, mile 90K+) by choice. I havent found anything else Id rather own.

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  T8 Excellence is best Hybrid SUV - 2017 Volvo XC90
  By Dave D - July 10 - 6:41 pm

  Bought a 2017 XC90 Excellence and really like the cabin divider that keeps interior quieter and stops wind from blowing into passenger space when hatch is open. German Shepherd fits nicely in either rear bucket seat with thigh extender out. Seats are extremely comfortable and include awesome massaging. Auto park and brake set or release is great feature. Safety technologies all included and really like active lane keeping as well as adaptive cruise. More than enough room in back for shopping and luggage even with having an Fpace spare space saver tire in case of flat laying on cargo floor (nearly exact diameter vs Volvo’s spare is 4” smaller). About 31 mpg in 6300 miles which is incredible for a 5300 lb SUV with 400 hp. Charges in two hours at 240V so do it several times a day. Remote climate start is perfect for dog on hot days. A lost car glitch on nav map was easily fixed by resetting Sensus system per screen option. Air suspension lowers car automatically. The list of great features goes on and on. Highly recommended plus Volvo included maintenance for 30000 miles or 3 years. An incredible vehicle and highly recommended!

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  Performed moderately well - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By MomInAZ - July 10 - 10:00 am

  Aside from looking great on the road, the XC90 has a few weak spots. There is a blind spot on both the driver and passenger sides which block peripheral vision in a very disruptive and dangerous way. A surprise for Volvo who appears concerned with safety. No other severe blind spots, but extreme caution must be taken to overcome this. After the first service at 7500, we completed MANY warranty repair issues. Yikes. Some minor, but one major issue with brakes. Days after this service, the check engine light appeared. The service dept at our local dealer was so slow, Ive yet to service. Good luck!