High-End SUV, Low-End Power I can think of no other sentence that succinctly describes the
Volvo XC90, at least the one equipped with the Swedish brand's low-pressure turbocharged, inline 2.5-liter, 5-cylinder engine, other than "high-end SUV, low-end power." What a great vehicle this would be if a well-refined, torquey V8 were to locate itself beneath the sculpted hood - but that's not likely to happen anytime soon despite its Ford Motor parentage.
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| The 2.5T version of the Volvo XC90 is tremendously good in every other way than engine performance. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
The XC90 2.5T is a tremendously good, light-duty SUV in every other way than engine performance mind you. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a high-octane power-freak, I just appreciate and expect strong highway and hill climbing performance from a vehicle in this Volvo's lofty price range. With its all-wheel-drive, premium comfort and versatility, the luxury SUV makes a fine ski vehicle - on the way down the mountain at least. Going up, loaded with passengers and gear, the XC90 feels almost as slow as a chairlift.
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| The 2.5T gets about town well enough, but you'd want to think twice about trying to pass a logging truck on the way up to the ski hill with your family and all their gear onboard. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Although many drivers may find the 208-horsepower 2.5T suitable for their needs, it would be wise to spend some time with it before plunging into the financial deep-end. The 2.5T gets about town well enough, however, and is not unpleasant when servicing basic transportation needs. Still, the prospect of passing a slow moving logging truck in a heavily laden example is not one I would entertain unless out on the Prairie flats where visibility and low traffic volumes equate to miles of passing opportunity - of course one is unlikely to encounter logging trucks in the Prairies making that last point somewhat moot.
