2003 Volvo XC90: Road Test
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2003 Volvo XC90 ▼
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- MSRP: $33,350 -$39,975
- Invoice: $31,349 -$37,576
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Our road test for the 2003 Volvo XC90 includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Volvo XC90 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Volvo XC90, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Volvo XC90 help you decide if a 2003 Volvo XC90 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.5T AWD | T6 w/nav. sys. | T6 w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.8 |
Only AWD models made available for testing so far. Test 2.5T did 9.2 sec 0-60 mph, T6 did it in 8.8. That's competitive with direct-rival SUVs, and XCs take on most any situation with sufficient power. Some testers did complain of a shortage of midrange urge, with the 2.5T struggling to maintain speed up steep grades. And we question how good acceleration will be when pulling the 5000-lb trailer all XC90s are rated to tow. XCs tested did annoy with unprogressive throttle action, a flaw evident when passing, where automatic-transmission kickdown demands a hard shove on the accelerator.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.5T AWD | T6 w/nav. sys. | T6 w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 2 | 3.1 |
In tests that included mostly highway driving, AWD 2.5Ts averaged 15.3-17.1 mpg, T6 13.5-16.7. Volvo recommends premium fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.5T AWD | T6 w/nav. sys. | T6 w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 4.6 |
Firm but comfortable and composed. Little difference in ride quality between 16- and 17-inch tires; ride suffers a bit with 18s included in T6 Premium Pkg. Little pitch or bounding over large humps and dips. Washboard surfaces cause minor wheel patter.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.5T AWD | T6 w/nav. sys. | T6 w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.1 |
Quite adept, as SUVs go. But steering feel is too light and numb for best control. Fine stopping power, but pedal feel on initial application was overly sensitive on models tested.
QUIETNESS
| 2.5T AWD | T6 w/nav. sys. | T6 w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
The smooth 6 cyl doesn't intrude except near top rpm, but 5 cyl is throbby and coarse as revs rise, with a slightly uncouth sound. Wind rush builds with speed but doesn't annoy. Tire thrum muted except on very coarse pavement.
CONTROLS
| 2.5T AWD | T6 w/nav. sys. | T6 w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 6 | 5.7 |
Gauges, controls attractive in style, placement, function. Audio unit slightly more intuitive than those in Volvo cars, but still not convenient to use. Likewise the navigation system, whose screen powers up from the dashtop and can wash out in bright light. Handsome, well-assembled cabin also typical Volvo, with only low-grade plastic on door-pulls and console detracting from the quality-look materials.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.5T AWD | T6 w/nav. sys. | T6 w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.3 |
Wide, cushy seats with chair-height positioning. Ample head room, adult-size leg room. Standard memory power seat and manual tilt/telescopic steering wheel help most any driver get comfortable. Visibility good, though elevated stance means objects near ground level can be hard to spot. Entry/exit easier than on many rivals.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.5T AWD | T6 w/nav. sys. | T6 w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.9 |
Second-row entry/exit impeded by narrowish doors that should open wider. Room and comfort in 2nd row acceptable for two adults, but not three. Very tight passageways make 3rd-row access a squeeze except for two small kids.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.5T AWD | T6 w/nav. sys. | T6 w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.5 |
Large rear liftgate doesn't rise quite high enough to clear a 6-footer's head, but short lower tailgate eases loading and reach into the cargo bay. Volume limited behind 3rd row, but all rear seats fold easily to create a flat load deck and class-competitive volume. Many rivals have more small-item storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.5T AWD | T6 w/nav. sys. | T6 w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
Most any buyer will approve of the XC90's carlike road manners, tight feel, and numerous safety features. Handling-conscious drivers will wish for firmer steering, and the 5-cyl engine's level of refinement disappoints. But prices are nice enough to tempt MDX and RX 330 intenders, and even some 6-cyl BMW X5 and Mercedes M-Class shoppers.
Total Score
| 2.5T AWD | T6 w/nav. sys. | T6 w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55 | 53 | 54 | 55.6 |
Total Score: 54
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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