2004 Volvo XC90: Road Test
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2004 Volvo XC90 ▼
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- MSRP: $34,790 -$40,965
- Invoice: $32,738 -$38,543
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Our road test for the 2004 Volvo XC90 includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Volvo XC90 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Volvo XC90, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Volvo XC90 help you decide if a 2004 Volvo XC90 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.5T AWD | T6 AWD w/nav. sys. | T6 AWD w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.8 |
Only AWD models made available for test so far. Test 2.5T did 9.2 sec 0-60 mph, T6 did 8.8. That's competitive with direct-rival SUVs, and XCs take on most any situation with sufficient power, though a loaded 2.5T can struggle to maintain speed up steep grades. And we question acceleration when pulling the 5000-lb trailer all XC90s are rated to tow. Some XCs tested annoyed with unprogressive throttle action.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.5T AWD | T6 AWD w/nav. sys. | T6 AWD w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
In tests that included mostly highway driving, AWD 2.5Ts averaged 15.3-17.1 mpg, T6 13.5-16.7. Volvo recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.5T AWD | T6 AWD w/nav. sys. | T6 AWD w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 4.9 |
Firm but comfortable and composed. Eighteen-inch tires react more abruptly than 17s on sharp ridges and pavement breaks, but make no major difference in ride quality. Little pitch or bounding over large humps and dips.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.5T AWD | T6 AWD w/nav. sys. | T6 AWD w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
Quite adept, as SUVs go. Low-speed steering response heavy, slow. Stability, precision increase with speed, though steering always suffers slightly numb feel. XC90 a bit ponderous in quick, around-town maneuvers, but has good grip and balance in fast turns, despite generous body lean. Fine stopping power, though pedal feel on initial application overly sensitive on some models tested.
QUIETNESS
| 2.5T AWD | T6 AWD w/nav. sys. | T6 AWD w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
T6's smooth 6-cyl doesn't intrude except near top rpm, but 2.5T's 5-cyl can feel coarse as revs rise. Wind rush builds with speed but doesn't annoy. Tire thrum muted except on very coarse pavement.
CONTROLS
| 2.5T AWD | T6 AWD w/nav. sys. | T6 AWD w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 6 | 6 |
Gauges and 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. Just a few low-grade plastic trim panels detract from quality-feel materials.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.5T AWD | T6 AWD w/nav. sys. | T6 AWD w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.4 |
Wide, cushy seats positioned chair height, though need more lateral support. Ample head room, adult-size leg room. Standard memory power seat and manual tilt/telescope steering wheel help most any driver get situated. Visibility good, though elevated stance means objects near ground level can be hard to spot. Entry/exit easier than on truck-based rivals.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.5T AWD | T6 AWD w/nav. sys. | T6 AWD w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 6.2 |
Second-row entry/exit impeded by narrowish doors that should open wider. Room, comfort in 2nd row acceptable for two adults, but not three. Very tight passageways make 3rd-row access a squeeze except for small kids.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.5T AWD | T6 AWD w/nav. sys. | T6 AWD w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
Large rear liftgate doesn't rise quite high enough to clear a 6-footer's head, but teams with short lower tailgate to create easy-loading liftover into cargo bay. Volume limited behind 3rd row, but all rear seats fold easily to create flat load deck and class-competitive volume. Many rivals have more small-item storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.5T AWD | T6 AWD w/nav. sys. | T6 AWD w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Carlike road manners, solid feel, and numerous safety features are the XC90's strengths. Handling-conscious drivers will wish for sharper steering. And the 5-cyl engine's level of refinement disappoints. But prices are low enough to tempt MDX and Lexus RX 330 intenders, while those considering BMW X3, Volkswagen Touareg, and Mercedes ML350 would do well to look here, too.
Total Score
| 2.5T AWD | T6 AWD w/nav. sys. | T6 AWD w/Premium Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 56 | 54 | 55 | 57.8 |
Total Score: 55
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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