Performance

The Volvo XC90 has a choice of 2 powerful petrol engines, a 3.2 litre inline 6 cylinder and a 4.4 V8, both of which are Automatic only, and the popular D5 diesel model. For the performance minded, both of the petrol models do an admirable job, building speed rapidly, however, both return fairly low miles per gallon, and will have much poorer residual values than the diesel come resale time. The diesel cannot match either of the petrol units for pace, but does an admirable job on what is a very large car, and is easily the more financially sensible choice.

Ride & Handling

The Volvo XC90 acquits itself admirably when corners arrive, in a manner which belies its overall size, with light and direct steering, and pliant suspension that allows little body roll but settles into a refined waft on the motorways, with surprisingly little in the way of road or wind noise. This is still a two tonne plus car with a high centre of gravity, but one that conducts itself in a way much more akin to a car than 4x4’s of old.

Reliability

In typical Volvo fashion, the XC90 feels wonderfully solid and well built. Materials are of high quality and surfaces and plastics are of the expensive soft feel kind. The engines and mechanicals are borrowed from the rest of the range, so will be proven and reliable, and switchgear feels robust, and able to withstand a lifetime of abuse.

Specifications

All of the Volvo XC90 range comes well equipped, starting with the entry S model, with alloys, CD player, dual climate control, and cruise control. SE spec upwards gets leather and a CD multichanger. The top of the range Executive model adds Sat Nav and plenty of luxury toys to the list.

Living with the Car

The Volvo XC90 makes truly practical transportation for the whole extended family. Front seats have plentiful head and leg room, with Volvos incredibly supportive, comfortable seats. The second row of three seats are equally well catered for, although the rearmost 2 seats are purely for children. These fold very simply into the floor when not in use to create what is a huge load area in the boot. With plenty of cubby holes and storage places, the car is packed with useful feature that do work very effectively.

Summary

A truly versatile, stylish and practical 4x4, never really designed for serious off road use, but capable of transporting the family long distances in style and comfort. The Volvo XC90 undercuts all of its rivals on cost and specification, the diesel is slightly underpowered but has good fuel economy and great residual values, and is a wonderful place to be for either driver or passenger. A great overall package.

Learning Resources

For further information on the Volvo Car range visit Volvo Cars UK: Volvo Cars UK Website.

For education and to learn about the history of Volvo Cars see Wikipedia: Wikipedia History of Volvo Cars.