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2008 Volvo XC90 Full Review
Date Published: 6/12/08
Also in the 2008 Volvo XC90 Review:
5.
6.
Volvo XC90 Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2008 Volvo XC90 Review
The 2008 Volvo XC90 gets minor trim changes. This premium midsize SUV offers seating for up to seven passengers. Three models are available. The 3.2 has a 235-hp 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine. The V8 model has a 311-hp 4.4-liter V8, as does the Sport, which adds unique interior and exterior trim, sport suspension, and 19-inch wheels in place of 18s. All XC90s use a 6-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 3870 lb for the V6 and 4960 lb for the V8. All-wheel drive is standard for the V8 and Sport and available for the 3.2 in place of front-wheel drive. The AWD lacks a low-range gear for off-roading. Standard safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Standard on V8s and Sports and optional on the 3.2 is a 3rd-row seat; included with it are a load-leveling suspension and 3rd-row climate and audio controls. XC90's 40/20/40 split 2nd-row bench is available with an integrated child booster seat. Steering-linked bi-xenon headlamps are optional, as is Volvo's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) designed to detect and warn of unseen objects nearby. Rear obstacle detection and a navigation system are also available. Leather upholstery is optional for 3.2s, standard on the V8 and Sport. Newly standard for all models is an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize SUVs are similar in size and construction to Midsize SUVs. Most, in fact, are gilded versions of Midsize SUVs; though a few are exclusive upscale designs.
Our Best Buys include the Acura MDX, Buick Enclave, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended pick is the Volvo XC90.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Buick Enclave.
Our Best Buys include the Acura MDX, Buick Enclave, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended pick is the Volvo XC90.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Buick Enclave.
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2008 Volvo XC90 Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Cargo room | Fuel economy |
| Interior materials | Navigation-system controls |
| Build quality | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
The cabin is handsome and well assembled, but suffers from a few low-grade plastic panels.
| 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)
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.
| 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)
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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 |
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2008 Volvo XC90 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/11/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
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| 3.2 4-door wagon | $36,210 | $34,037 | $745 |
|
|
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| V8 4-door wagon | $48,505 | $45,110 | $745 |
|
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| Sport 4-door wagon | $49,870 | $46,379 | $745 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
3.2
Powertrain
3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine, 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags w/rollover deployment, front-seat active headrests, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system w/rollover sensors, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, cloth/vinyl upholstery, front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), center console, fold-flat passenger seat, 2nd-row split folding seat, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/turn signals, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital-media player connection, tachometer, trip computer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, outside-temperature indicator, variable-intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, universal garage door opener, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, automatic-off headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, front and rear fog lights, roof rails.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
235/65R17 tires, alloy wheels.
V8 adds to 3.2:
Powertrain
4.4-liter V8 engine, all-wheel drive.
Safety
2nd-row integrated child seat.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, 8-way power passenger seat, 3rd-row seat, aluminum interior trim, rear air conditioning w/climate controls, power sunroof, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Load-leveling suspension, 235/65R18 tires.
Sport adds to V8:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Unique interior and exterior trim, sport suspension, 255/50R19 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Premium Pkg.
|
||
|
3.2
|
$3,525
|
$3,032
|
|
Leather upholstery, 8-way power passenger seat, power sunroof, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, upgraded sound system.
|
||
|
Executive Pkg.
|
||
|
V8
|
$2,900
|
$2,494
|
|
Upgraded leather upholstery, 235/60R18 tires, unique alloy wheels.
|
||
|
Convenience Pkg.
|
||
|
3.2, Sport, V8
|
$1,300
|
$1,118
|
|
Rear-obstacle-detection system, interior air quality system, power-folding mirrors, power child locks, compass.
|
||
|
Technology Pkg.
|
||
|
Sport
|
$2,600
|
$2,236
|
|
Upgraded sound system, satellite radio, steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights w/washers.
|
||
|
Versatility Pkg.
|
||
|
3.2
|
$2,550
|
$2,193
|
|
3rd-row seat, rear air conditioning w/climate controls, integrated child-booster seat, load-leveling suspension. Requires Premium Pkg.
|
||
|
Climate Pkg.
|
||
|
3.2, Sport, V8
|
$1,025
|
$882
|
|
w/steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights
|
$762
|
$656
|
|
Heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, headlight washers.
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|
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Powertrain |
||
|
All-wheel drive
|
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|
3.2
|
$1,850
|
$1,591
|
|
|
||
Safety |
||
|
Blind spot alert
|
||
|
3.2, Sport, V8
|
$695
|
$598
|
|
|
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Navigation system
|
||
|
3.2, Sport, V8
|
$2,205
|
$1,896
|
|
3.2 requires Premium Pkg.
|
||
|
DVD entertainment system
|
||
|
3.2, Sport, V8
|
$1,800
|
$1,548
|
|
Includes dual screens. 3.2 requires Premium Pkg.
|
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Upgraded sound system
|
||
|
V8
|
$1,400
|
$1,204
|
|
Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel
|
||
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3.2
|
$325
|
$280
|
|
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
|
||
|
V8
|
$0
|
$0
|
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Steering-linked bi-xenon headlights
|
||
|
3.2, V8
|
$800
|
$688
|
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Includes washers.
|
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Special paint
|
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3.2, Sport, V8
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$475
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$409
|
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Premium paint
|
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V8
|
$625
|
$538
|
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Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires |
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235/60R18 tires
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3.2
|
$750
|
$645
|
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Chrome alloy wheels
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3.2
|
$1,550
|
$1,333
|
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V8
|
$995
|
$856
|
|
Includes 235/60R18 tires.
|
||
|
|
||
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Volvo XC90 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Volvo XC90 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 112.6 |
| Overall Length, in. | 189.3 |
| Overall Width, in. | 74.7 |
| Overall Height, in. | 70.2 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4464 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 85.1 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 21.1 |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.1 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.0 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.5 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.4 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I6 | dohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.2 /195 | 4.4 /269 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 235 @ 6200 | 311 @ 5850 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 236 @ 3200 | 325 @ 3900 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 6-speed automatic | 14/20 | 13/19 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Volvo XC90 4-door wagon |
| 4WD Rollover | 4 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 12/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/unlimited | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | --/7500 | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Sweden
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Volvo XC90 Review:
5.
6.
Volvo XC90 Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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