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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  safety with style - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By aimee - January 31 - 2:00 am

  I anxiously awaited the release of theis car to the market and its arrival has exceeded my expectations. Living in the Northeast, your faced with fluctuating road conditions, be it due to weather or just the type of road. This car performs great all around. No SUV or any automobile for that matter can stop on a sheet of ice, so with the Volvo, you can be assured you are safe should you get into trouble. The interior is comfortable, and I think on the outside, is the best looking SUV on the road. Lastly, the Volvo XC90 is very spacious and has an optional third seat that and adult will not be cramped in. It is a fantastic car!

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  Volvo Great Car - 2007 Volvo XC90
  By Joe - January 20 - 6:10 pm

  Volvo makes the worlds safest cars. They are very fun and easy to drive. Best SUV I ever had

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  Great Family SUV - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By PWD2008 - January 20 - 6:56 am

  Have owned my XC90 for 6 years and worked through several minor but aggravating issues while under warranty. I bought the XC90 for Volvos reputation for safety and reliability, styling, and comfort. Im very satisfied overall performance and this is one of the best highway vehicles Ive owned. The ride is smooth and the 5 cylinder engine is responsive enough for all my needs. On the reliability side, I believe Ford took several cost savings measures and put cheap parts into a high end vehicle. e.g. headlamp cover pitting, rear wheel bearing wear, lug nuts rusting, and electronics problems. Very aggravating.. My 2nd vehicle (Honda Element)is more reliable at 1/2 the price

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  XC90 After Chrismas Volvo - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By Harry - January 18 - 10:00 am

  I purchased the XC90 December 26, 2004 at the same time gas prices hit $2 a gallon in Las Vegas. My Ford got 13 MPG and I saw the cost only going up. I returned from Phoenix today (9/12/10) and averaged 23.7 MPG with the 2.5 T FWD. It has been a trouble free purchase with the original Michelin tires still on the vichele.

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  Absolutely great family car - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By DC Luke - January 14 - 1:50 am

  Have utterly enjoyed owning this vehicle. From the dealer support to the sheer enjoyment of driving with the safety Volvo is known for, I highly recommend it.

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  Medicore SUV - 2017 Volvo XC90
  By Midoles0621 - January 13 - 4:48 pm

  This Volvo is an average SUV . Nothing special , some materials are hard ( rest hand , etc. ) . The ride is very hard .

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  Love my XC90! - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By brangmas - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Ive driven this car since 9/03. My previous car was a Subaru Outback. This car is so comfortable. It has a distinctive external design, great head and tail lights for visibility.The seats are adjustable to a degree Ive never had before, and very cushy. I enjoy the heated seats...an extra, but worth it so far this winter. The dashboard controls are easy to read, and everything is easily accessible. The ride is very smooth and the car handles well on city streets, as well as the highway.

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  big bomb - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By suz - December 31 - 1:46 am

  Do not buy this car, 2004 and 2005 xc90s are known for their transmission problems. Guess what? Volvo of America does not care. $6,700 later, now upside down. Owned the car 7 month. A piece of crap. There are class action suits being established in Conn. and in NYC. Avoid this SUV

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  Best Luxury SUV - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By Chnc - December 24 - 2:00 am

  I looked at all the competitors (mercedes, bmw, acura, lexus, jeep, toyota, etc.) and nothing compares at this price point. Best combination of value, safety, luxury and versatility. Volvo did a great job with this vehicle. Over 50% more space then the BMW on the inside while only being a few inches longer. Only a few thousand more then the Acura MDX but offers so much more in terms of safety and luxury features.

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  I Love Volvo for life! - 2007 Volvo XC90
  By CarmenSocal - December 20 - 11:16 pm

  I Love my Volvo! To own a Volvo had always been my dream, and finally came true! I got my Volvo for my birthday! I am so happy driving my XC90, with 7 seats has room for everything and everyone, it is beautiful, is eye catching! I feel so safe when I am on the freeway, it takes the curves so easy, and it feels so smoth!...I love every single detail of the vehicle, but what I love the most is that it is so roomy in the inside, without being to big in the outside. In SF is not easy to find parking, and I always wanted a vehicle, that will be easy to park, but that will be big enough to carry my whole family and pet, and also that will be elegant and safe...I sure found all that in my Volvo!!