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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Great Volvo SUV-XC 90 - 2005 Volvo XC90
By Brutus - May 6 - 12:06 amLove this car. Its built like a tank but feels more like a sports car. Comfortable and easy to drive.
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Phenomenal Car... - 2006 Volvo XC90
By RHV - May 3 - 1:16 pmHow often can one say that spending over $40k for an automobile was a good feeling and/or investment - although the safety of my three under 4 years old is worth $40k - not often. The XC90 is one of these autos. This is my 3rd Volvo, and it is an incredible machine. The XC90 can best be defined in two ways: powerful yet understated or aggressive yet humble...BUY THIS CAR MOM AND DAD!
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My first SUV - 2003 Volvo XC90
By kentmilani - May 2 - 10:00 amWe were looking for a safe 7 seat vehicle, comfortable seats, reliable and economical to run. The MDX is only the only other SUV to come close to this descripition. The fuel economy (or lack thereof) has surprised me in the first 800 miles. My Toyota Tundra V8 does better in city and on highway. I have BABIED the XC90s throttle and I get 14 mpg (US gallons)in the city and 20 mpg on highway. Tell me its just during the break-in period?! Dealer tried a few "tricks" when I went to pick it up, but they backed down when I objected. Otherwise, our whole family is very happy, comfortable and safe.
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What a nightmare!!! - 2003 Volvo XC90
By dok - April 23 - 10:00 amI have finally solved all of my 2003 XC90 problems, I GOT RID OF IT! Let me count the thousands of dollars I spent in 7 years on maintenance, 4 sets of tires, 2 were the crappy pirellis, then 1 set of michellins and finally 1 set of goodyear assurance tires rated for 80,000 miles. A leaky power steering unit, both front lower ball joints and tie rod ends. And a new transmission after 57000 miles along with a leaky sun roof and the emissions evporative pump and charcoal canister. but what realy hurts IS not being able to find a volvo dealer that could fix the car reliably and honestly. steer clear of volvo of edisons service department.
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This is One Nice Vehicle!!! - 2005 Volvo XC90
By Don - April 18 - 12:23 pmVolvo really did a nice job on the XC90. Our is two weeks old now with over 1000 miles and we continue to be impressed. The interior layout is outstanding. All the controls are easily reachable and understandable. Ride is very smooth with good acceleration. Gas mileage could be better though. We got the Rear Seat DVD system and it is just amazing. For a family with kids in the 11-17 range, it really keeps the noise down in the back. We compared against the Cadillac SRX, Chrylser Pacifica and Ford Freestyle. The XC90 blew them all away in quality, comfort and features. Its an excellent vehicle that I hope to enjoy for many years.
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I wanted to like it BUT... - 2004 Volvo XC90
By bletour - April 9 - 10:00 amLoaded T6 Accel poor unless you slam it to the floor. Slow to downshift Suspension mediocre. This car never feels even a hint of sporty in corners. Seats: Cant get comfortable Lights: "auto" on feature so when it gets dark they turn on, but the high beams wont function in that mode. Rain sensing wipers: Adjust the intermittent control and the rain sensor takes over anyway. "Approach lights": You have to push a separate button on the keyfob from unlock N/V/H... This car makes nasty noises sometimes and never seems smooth. Squeeks and rattles already forming at 10K miles. Build Quality: Doors need to be slammed, compartments stick.
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Never Again - 2003 Volvo XC90
By phred3717 - April 5 - 3:43 pmI will never buy another Volvo. This car cost me countless hours and huge sums of money to keep running. I had an extended waranty to begin with but then the real problems began. Brake pads annually, main engine seals, tierod ends, transmission. Broke down on family trips even after being serviced faithfully by dealer! Last straw - the turbos blew on a road trip 1,000 Km from home with family and friends onboard. Got $100 for it and was happy to see the end of it. Fool me once shame on you Volvo - wont happen again.
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Comfy Volvo - 2006 Volvo XC90
By Comfy Volvo - April 1 - 9:53 amTraded an S40 for the XC90. Ride is superb for an SUV. Although under powered, the 2.5 Turbo does the job well. Lots of standard features plus received free incentives. Highway ride is wonderful. Was able to transition easily from the S40 to the larger XC90. Intimidating at first, but after the first trip, its still a Volvo!
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Very Pleased - 2007 Volvo XC90
By Sport model - March 29 - 5:00 amBought the car for my Wife. We have 3 Children 7 and Under. Had Minivan. Its my wifes car but I no longer dread driving her car. She chose the sport model which didnt break my heart. Love the susp and wheels. Great ride, tons of fun to drive, handles better than my maxima, looks awesome(red). Love safety features(essentially why I suggested to her). Downside is that it is not minivan which had tons of space, convenience for ingress and egress(obviously plus and minuses). Thankfully she was ready for an SUV again. Gas mileage fairly good, 18 mpg with the V8. Love features, loaded with all but nav. Seats are super, feel connected good ergonomics
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Our Favorite that weve ever owned !! - 2007 Volvo XC90
By James TG. - March 19 - 10:30 amWe love the looks, drive, safety and reliability of this car !! Nothing negative to say !!
