A flagship vehicle for Volvo, the
2010 Volvo XC90 is a seven-passenger luxury crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV) that comes in three trims: 3.2 Sport Utility, R-Design Sport Utility, and V8 Sport Utility. The 3.2 and 3.2 R-Design trims come with a 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine, while the V8 trim gets a 4.4-liter V-8 engine, with both engines mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. Standard with the 3.2 engine is front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive (AWD) is an option, and AWD is standard with the V-8 engine.
The Volvo XC90 boasts a stylish interior, comfortable seating, and smooth ride. However, the XC90 gets subpar fuel economy in the 14 mpg city / 20 mpg highway range. Although the base trim is traditionally styled, the R Design adds some pizzazz. The XC90 is known for its perfect crash-test scores, due to its extensive, high-quality safety systems.
New for 2010
For 2010, the Volvo XC90 gets a standard third-row seat to allow up to seven passengers, the chassis has been tweaked to improve ride and handling, and rear park assist is now standard. In addition, the XC90s has a new Multimedia package that combines a premium sound system and a navigation system with real-time traffic information plus satellite radio. Options include a power moon roof, climate control for the third row, new leather surfaces, and a child booster seat built into the second row. The V8 trim receives standard wood inlays, heated headlight washers, and heated front seats.
Essentials
Engines: 3.2L I-6, 4.4L V-8
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Body Style: 4-door SUV
Trims: 3.2 Sport Utility, R-Design Sport Utility, V8 Sport Utility
On the Outside
While a very conservative design compared to its flamboyant relatives, the Volvo XC90 is noticeably blocky, emphasizing the substance and toughness of the model.
From the Inside
Delightfully luxurious inside, the Volvo X90 is designed with flowing lines and rich-looking details. From an ergonomic perspective, the X90 boasts refined, easy-to-use controls and comfortable seating, even though the new third row restricts the second-row space a bit. The V8 trim's Executive package includes massage and ventilation-equipped front seats, along with heated rear seats.
Driving Performance
Just as you might expect from its appearance, the Volvo XC90 is a big, heavy, comfortable SUV. Powered by a six cylinder-equipped 3.2 engine, the XV90 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 8.7 seconds, which is fast enough for around-town driving; however, the V8 races through the 0 to 60 in around 6.7 seconds.
Safety Equipment
Standard safety equipment on the Volvo XC90 is antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and anti-whiplash front seats. Optional is a blind spot warning system.
Gas Mileage
3.2 and 3.2 R-Design: 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway (FWD); 15 mpg city/ 21 mpg highway (AWD)
V8: 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway
Plusses
- Powerful V8 engine
- Room for seven passengers
- Luxurious interior
Minuses
- Subpar fuel economy
- Outdated design
Rating
Seven-seat SUV boasts comfort, perfect crash-test scores
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- Audi Q7
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