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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  My 2nd Volvo - 2005 Volvo XC90
  By NMF in Indy - May 5 - 7:13 pm

  I always said when Volvo came out with an SUV, Id have one. So, when it became necessary for me to trade in my old SUV, the first place I looked was Volvo. The entire experience of putting together what I wanted, right up to the delivery which was earlier than anticipated, was great. Ive owned 3 SUVs prior to the XC90 and I can honestly say it far out ranks the others in most areas. My only criticism would have to be on the placing (and lack) of cup holders. Everything else gets pretty close to top marks.

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  Still Thrilled - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By Still Thrilled - May 5 - 8:03 am

  Its been 2 years and 33,000 miles since taking delivery overseas through Volvos Overseas Delivery Program. I enjoy driving it today just as much as I enjoyed the thrill of that first time in Sweden. No major mechnical problems. Have had some minor early-production- life issues solved under warranty and when the dealer was stumped, Volvo North America rep stepped in to help. Gas milage improved significantly after 10K miles and avg in the 20-24 range for me now, with about 30/70 city/highway driving. Never see it drop below 18mpg anymore. Plenty of power for Rocky Mountain driving. I really enjoy this car!!

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  Great vehicle 2.5T has plenty of power - 2006 Volvo XC90
  By mj10990 - May 3 - 4:46 pm

  All around terrific vehicle and terrific value compared to other luxury SUVs. Comfort, safety, beauty, performance are all outstanding! The 2.5T is more than enough power. The V8 is overkill-I drive over two ski slopes to get home and have never felt a lack of power. We narrowed it Between the Acura MDX and the Volvo. We got a better deal on an 06 Volvo than on a 05 MDX. Better looks, better gas mileage, better comfort and Acura has horrible dealers. AND we love Volvos politics (the $500 donation to HRC was great)! Finally-18-20mpg is outstanding for a 4500lb vehicle!!!! For comparison, Reviews say The MDX is getting 13-17! XC90 is averaging 18-20!

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  Great Car - Confusing Tech - 2018 Volvo XC90
  By Stuart B - May 2 - 12:34 am

  Overall I love the 2018 XC 90. The design beautiful and the comfort is excellent. The performance is good our previous SUVs were the BMW X5 and the Explorer Sport. The one frustration for my wife and I is the Volvo Sensus Infotainment System. Its not bad but its also far from good, as compared to BMW iDrive. The system would be much better if commonly used functions like climate control had their own physical buttons. The temperature and seat/steering wheel heat controls are slow to respond an lack haptic feedback. Its not possible to use these controls without taking your eyes off of the road.

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  Dont buy this car - 2007 Volvo XC90
  By RICH - April 29 - 2:53 am

  Nothing but problems with this car-- ive been to the dealership 6 times and they havent been able to shut the engine light off. I will never buy another volvo

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  Transmission exploded after one month - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By bp - April 26 - 4:16 am

  Do not buy this year xc90 under ANY circumstances. Had it one and a half months, transmission exploded. Car has low miles (45,000) and I bought the aftermarket warranty. They will not cover the loss due to a clip failure in the transmission, which fails due to a too short lube tube from the pan. Thumbs way down.

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  Great Solid SUV - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By sabremax - April 24 - 2:00 am

  This is my first SUV owned. I believe I am spoiled. This car is so solid. It just doesnt appear to be as big and roomy as it is. Controls are beautifully placed and very functional. It has all the "necessary" bells and whistles without all the ones that you never use. The ride is smooth and quiet. This Volvo gives you a real sense of stability on the road.

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  Fun and safe to drive - 2007 Volvo XC90
  By Henry Rosen - April 21 - 9:43 pm

  I have been a loyal Volvo customer (3 Cross Countrys) for almost 10 years and did not feel comfortable driving SUVs. After test driving the 2007 XC90 and enjoying the drive I was hooked. I am very happy with this car as it has more space than our family of four needs and it comfortably can take three of my childrens friends. If you are looking for an SUV with good gas mileage 19 MPG, all the safety and luxury features you will ever need, this is the car for you.

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  Awesome SUV - 2006 Volvo XC90
  By Gary Howard - April 20 - 4:40 pm

  From the delivery from Neftin Volvo ( awesome dealership) the XC90 has been my favorite car ever. Rides like a magic carpet and off roads like rhino. I LOVE IT!

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  Shockingly great - 2004 Volvo XC90
  By better than Lexus - April 19 - 10:00 am

  We own a 2002 Lexus SC430 and love it. We recently decided to get an SUV, too. This was the one we chose. We love it. The navigation system is different from the Lexus and has some pros it just takes learning the difference (like computers). Really sharp, well designed, comfortable and enjoyable. Got everything but securty. Love DVD, etc. Will buy this brand again, although we never had one before now. It is a different type of fun car (big car fun versus little convertible fun).