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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  Mechanical Problems - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By Steve - October 9 - 3:50 am

  I purchased the Volvo for its safety and value. During the 27 months I have owned it, there have been at least 10 recalls, the brake pads had to be replaced at 20,000 miles (and I had to pay for them even though I leased it with all maintenance included) AND the transmission was replaced at 37,000 miles. I cant wait until my lease is up!

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  Very happy @ 200,000 - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By in_a_hurry - September 22 - 1:40 pm

  Ive read the recent reviews and it appears most folks are pretty miffed with their XC-90s. I couldnt be happier with mine. A couple car pool trips shy of 200,000 miles (I bought it new) and no major issues - never a tranny, motor, A/C or electrical problem. I get about 45,000 miles on tires - not great but a willing compromise knowing Im driving a stout porker thats as safe as anything on the road. I have an honest, reliable mechanic who has taken care of a couple cars for me - a bonus. Other than scheduled maintenance items, there hasnt been much to repair on the car that would not be expected, given the mileage. Ball joints and motor mounts are the only things that come to mind

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  This SUV is the next step in the future of driving - 2016 Volvo XC90
  By Y Morgan - September 20 - 5:20 am

  At least get the Convenience and Momentum Plus packages with this Luxury vehicle.The vehicle is built on proven technology. I realized that a lot of the gadgets and feature were already in some of the other Volvos, but the XC90 just take them to higher level. The XC90 drives sweet, I just have to get use to the engine turning off at every dead stop, and restarting when the brakes are released. The inside is somewhat captivating, and there is more than enough room for everyone. Power outlets placed in strategic areas around the vehicle, and air vents are right in your face. Update - After six months of driving the vehicle, some of the issues I have had has been software related. We had to visit the dealership at least five times during that period to get software issues fixed, some of these issues were serious, while others were not so serious. Also the pickup/acceleration is slow in every drive mode except "dynamic", then it kicks assets.

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  Solid as a rock - 2006 Volvo XC90
  By Brady - September 9 - 10:30 am

  Weve had the XC90 since Dec. 05 and have only performed scheduled maintenance. Comfort, safety, and reliability have been excellent.

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  easy to drive - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By cathy - August 5 - 12:50 am

  easy to drive, park, reverse - however, visability could be improved. had horn go out on me the first month. if it rains, when you open door(s), water falls out. i get asked questions about the volvo all the time - over all - so far - great - except for visability.

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  Recent Purchase - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By keithschultz - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle over other suvs based on safety concerns and size. So far the vehicle has been great. Complaints are as follows: 1. Second row seats do not recline. 2. About 14 mpg overall 3. There is no compass. Positives: 1. Good interior design 2. Good engine response with little turbo lag. 3. Excellent handling for a vehicle of this weight 4. Excellent brakes. 5. Good sound system

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  Nice car, with a few shortcomings - 2007 Volvo XC90
  By Carsten S - July 12 - 9:43 pm

  Overall, I am satisfied with the car. On many levels it compares well with other imported SUVs, and is more reasonably priced than many of them. The cargo room it provides is quite good. 2nd row seating is tight front and aft when the third row option is installed. Volvo has a very skimpy maintenance plan, comp. to others, just the first is free. Gas mileage: try as I might, never more than 17mpg. A BMW X3 is much quicker and with beter mileage. Reliability: the shift lever will not leave park on cold days for up to 1min. Even a "fix" didnt help. Traction: Problems with 4wd engagement led to recall, but mine still spins through in FWD on even just slightly wet surfaces. Very annoying

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  Great car at great expense - 2003 Volvo XC90
  By buzz127 - July 8 - 1:23 pm

  I have had my XC90 for 39 months now. It has been a pleasure to drive, but very expensive to run and maintain. Using high test gas today makes it even more expensive. The car eats tires--OEM got 14,000. 2nd pair of Michelins got 20,000. But it is secure, safe and comfortable. You have to decide if the $$s are worth the tradeoff.

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  Bought it new...still love it! - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By Leslie - July 3 - 12:06 am

  I am thrilled that we did not get the T6. The only con I have is that the tires (originally Pirelli)have been replaced twice - not unusually with an AWD SUV. The 2 things that I had a problem were was the front brakes making a bizzare sound -they put something on the brakes...fixed. The only other thing that happened was I got into the car and the engine would not turn over...dead. Something with the key. Had to have it towed to the dealer. I was hit by a mini cooper on my side door and the car did not move. I have two small children and feel very safe. Was thinking of trading it in for a newer VOLVO XC90 but after reading the other reviews(I have only 52K miles) I think Ill keep it.

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  so far so good - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By brirags - July 2 - 7:43 pm

  I just picked up an 05 T6 with 40k miles from auction. The car is nearly flawless and appears to run beautifully. I found out Im the 2nd owner, and the car has been meticulously maintained by a local Volvo dealer. My concern is that its had 2 transmissions replaced, the latest 18 months ago along with the radiator. Not sure if I need to purchase a warantee. Dealers told me the problem is most likely cured, but if anyone has a comment, Im all ears as Im a bit concerned.