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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  Amazing Vehicle - 2016 Volvo XC90
  By Sageman - December 18 - 3:40 am

  This is a phenomenal vehicle. I have 3000 miles on my T8 Inscription and could not be happier. I drove BMW, new Audi Q7, new MB and Porche; the T8 is the true winner. If you are considering a T6 or T8, the first option I would recommend is the air suspension. It is a gamer changer offering a smoother, quieter ride and improved handling. Going for the Inscription package raises the interior seating and finishes to an extremely high level. Then of course Intellisafe safety features are wonderful. And finally, if you are into music, the BW sound system is uncompromising. Wow. The T8 plug in hybrids battery cost 50 cents to charge and it provides enough electric only miles for most of my city driving needs. We charge between 1 and 5am using a timer to get the lowest electrical rate of 4 cents per kw (here in Arizona). In the electric mode, the car it incredibly quiet. Really magical.

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  Great Value - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By CDA IDAHO - December 16 - 6:10 pm

  So my wife and I spent 3 weekends looking for the perfect midsize SUV for our newly expanding family. Liked the Murano - but too small, really liked the new 08 Highlander - but a little too expensive, Acadia - a little too expensive. We looked at the 04-05 Infiniti, Acura, and BMW.... all were a little too small. We drove the XC90 the same day we drove the Acadia and couldnt help but notice the difference a V8 makes, both in pickup and engine noise. Very happy with our used purchase-- only 22k miles, all the bells and whistles. So quiet - compared to other test drives.

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  All Youll Ever Need ... - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By buddy c - December 14 - 10:00 am

  We took delivery on a metallic green 2003 XC90 T-6 about a month ago, and have found it to be everything as advertised -- and more. Volvo managed to maintain the unmistakable look and quality "feel" of a Volvo, with room GALORE in the vehicle and -- not incidentally -- a magnificent sound system, kid-friendly features, and in my opinion, sure (if unspectacular) performance. A big-time winner in my book!

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  Many problems - disappointed owner - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By jnkn of KC - December 11 - 11:10 am

  We had our T6 for 20 months and have had a number of problems. They include power steering rack replaced, horn malfunction, transmission seals replced, right rear hub replaced, radio malfunction. These were are covered under warranty but for $45,000 we were hoping for a more reliable vehicle. The also never mentioned that tires will not last more than 18- 20 thousand miles. Be preparded to spend $900 for new tires regularly.

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  great SUV but not atheletic - 2017 Volvo XC90
  By SKA - December 5 - 4:37 am

  We have very limited options for 3 row luxury SUV. Mercedes GLS is too big, BMW X5 3rd row is unusable. It boils down to XC90 and Audi Q7. Me and my wife both loved the exterior/interior of XC90. Eventually we ended up buying XC90 T8 Inscription with all possible options (MSRP was 85K, but we got good deal). Car is very quite and drives really nice and my wife swears for its handling. However I feel driving is boring. Acceleration is no where close to my Mercedes E350. May be I should not expect that but I want to let you know that dont get foll by 400hp rating. It is big/heavy car and you will notice it. It has about 15 miles electric only range and my wife loves electric only mode due to quietness (I feel it is sluggish in electric mode). in last 4 months I had to visit dealer twice. Once engine light came up and second because there is some rattling noise in center console. Dealer fixed engine light thing, but noise issue has not gone fully (it comes back only at certain speed). I feel it is due to air suspension and I have to live with it. I dont expect such thing in 85K car. If I have to buy again, I would buy T6, since it is 400lb lighter so will have better handling. T6 will be 15K cheaper too. Now it has been one year since I have this vehicle. It has made two trips to dealer for various issues. One for temp sensor gone bad and another for battery cooling pump gone bad. It was also making creaking sound at center console which dealership fixed by putting some extra insulation. Now I hope everything is sorted out and just regular servicing will be needed in future. I have grown used to its driving characteristics. Driving experience is best at Sports mode. Everyone gives compliment for its looks.

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  Expensive All-Weather Hauler - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By scottque - December 4 - 6:58 pm

  Have had this thing now for 10+ years and 90,000 miles. Went from primary car for hauling two kids to a third car that sits outside and is reserved for "dirty work". Have been lucky enough to avoid any engine and transmission problems but the cost of multiple failed wheel bearings, sway bars, and ignition coils have really mounted - especially for a relatively low-mileage vehicle. Still, the fact that we still have this car says a lot about it. It is extremely versatile, in terms of hauling people and stuff. It has always started and never broken down. And one thing about the Swedes - they know how to make safe cars that can drive through snow! Ten years old and does not look dated.

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  VOLVO XC90 - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By SLMCPA - December 2 - 2:00 am

  NICE SOLID DRIVING CAR, BUT DISSAPPOINTING OVERALL. I HAVE HAD TO TAKE THE CAR BACK FOR WARRANTY WORK NEARLY EVERY OTHER WEEK. TIRES WERE WORN OUT AT 10,000 MILES. SEATS DROP ALL MEMORY IF MORE THAN ONE DRIVER USES THE SAME KEYLESS ENTRY. FIELD OF VISION ON THE SIDE AND SIDE VIEW MIRRORS IS VERY BAD. I HAVE HAD SEVERAL NEAR MISSES. WE HAVE THE THIRD ROW SEATING OPTION AND THE INTERIOR FEELS VERY CRAMPED IN ALL THREE ROWS. RUBBER GASKET UNDER ROOF RACK IN THE FRONT MADE A TERRIBLE HUMMING NOISE AND HAD TO BE REPLACED.

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  Beautiful, Competent & Thirsty - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By jblaze13 - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Very comfortable ride. Vehicle is bigger than it looks. 5 cylinder engine performs well. However, the city gas mileage is terrible (15.8 observed) in cold weather. Short trips can get expensive with premium gas. Highway mileage is true to 24 mpg rating. I cant see how the T6 is worth the extra money. Exterior design is faaar more beautiful than just about anything in its class.

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  XC90 Review - 2016 Volvo XC90
  By Joe F. - November 23 - 1:04 pm

  Excellent car by all means

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  This is the Ultimate Volvo - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By Ira Tate - November 22 - 10:00 am

  When i first purchased my Volvo XC90, i was well impressed. It feels so much like a car when i drive it. All of the amentities in the interior are superb. I love the way Volvo designed the truck period!