Acceleration

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
5	6	6.1

No Sport models have been made available for us to test. The smooth 6-cylinder engine provides adequate acceleration from a stop and for passing and merging. The V8 delivers brisk takeoffs and fine midrange passing power. With either engine, the transmission is smooth, but some testers complained of slow downshifts with the 3.2.

Fuel Economy

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
4	4	3.3

In Consumer Guide testing, a 3.2 averaged 16.0 mpg in mostly city driving. A test V8 averaged 15.6 mpg in mostly city driving, 17.8 in mixed city/highway use. All XC90 models use regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
7	7	5.9

XC90s tested rode firmly but were comfortable and composed. The 18-inch tires standard on the V8 and optional on the 3.2 react a bit more abruptly than the 3.2's standard 17s on sharp ridges and pavement breaks, but they make no major difference in ride quality. There was little pitching or bounding over large humps and dips.

Steering/Handling/Braking

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
5	5	5.5

XC90s move like the tall, heavy wagons they are. The steering is numb and rather slow at any speed, and the body lean is marked in quick changes of direction. Straightline stability is fine, though gusty highway crosswinds cause mild wander. Stopping control is good, but the brakes feel touchy on initial application, a bit spongy when depressed quickly.

Quietness

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
7	8	6.7

The polished V8 is nearly hushed at cruise, and engine noise rises to a classy, muted growl at full throttle. The 3.2's 6-cylinder engine matches the V8 for refinement but is more clearly heard, even in gentle acceleration. Wind rush builds with speed, but it doesn't annoy. Tire thrum is modest except on very coarse pavement.

Controls

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
6	6	6.2

The gauges and most controls are stylish and handy. The climate controls are mounted low but are simple to operate. However, the audio controls are not intuitive, nor are those for the available navigation system, which is handicapped by a screen that powers up from the dashtop and washes out in bright light.

Details

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
6	6	7

The cabin is handsome and well assembled, but suffers from a few low-grade plastic panels.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
7	7	7.5

Headroom and legroom are ample on cushy chair-height seats. Little lateral bolstering means occupants slide around during spirited driving. The standard memory power seat and manual tilt and telescopic steering wheel easily situate most drivers. Rear headrests clutter aft visibility. A high stance means smaller objects near ground level can be hard to spot; the BLIS system may help. Entry and exit are easier than on taller rivals, though step-in still requires a fair climb.

Room/Comfort (rear)

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
5	5	6.5

Second-row entry and exit are impeded by rather narrow doors that should open wider. Room and comfort in the 2nd row is OK for two adults but not for three. Very tight passageways squeeze 3rd-row access except for small kids, who are best suited for the tight accommodations there anyway.

Cargo Room

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
7	7	8.6

The large liftgate doesn't rise quite high enough to clear a six-footer's head, but teams with a short lower tailgate for easy loading. Cargo space is limited behind the 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 in the cabin.

Value within Class

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
8	7	6.1

Earning XC90 its Recommended laurel are carlike road manners, rock-solid feel, and numerous safety features. While none of these Volvos tops the class for agility or outright utility, prices are reasonable. The best value here is a base 3.2 with its impressively refined 6-cylinder engine.

Total Score

AWD 3.2	V8	Class Average
67	68	69.4

Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		60
Average Score		69
High Score		80