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2003 Volvo XC90 Preview

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Khatir Soltani

Inside convenient features abound, such as B and C pillar ventilation that keep rear passengers at the optimal temperature. After all, you want them comfortable while enjoying the dealer installed 7-inch roof-mounted monitor hooked up to a state-of-the-art DVD player. It should sound realistic as well, with optional 305-watt Dolby Pro Logic II digital surround sound. If it gets too distracting while you're driving each passenger gets an audio outlet with separate controls.

The XC90 is more than just technical innovation. It incorporates the clean, simple elegance of design that recent Volvo's have become lauded for. Subtle woodgrain accents are mixed with brushed aluminum trim endowing it with a warm yet contemporary character. Volvo's workmanship of late is near the top of the industry, bested only slightly by BMW and Audi. It's safe to say that the XC90 should only improve on this trend.

And improving on a trend is the XC90's core purpose. Its car-like ride and handling should rival the class leading BMW X5 and surpass it in passenger and load carrying convenience. While not as powerful as competitive V8s, most Volvo customers will appreciate the new SUVs eco-friendly emissions, better than average fuel economy and lower price. It's easy to speculate that Volvo has created a winner.

Specifications:

  • Price Range (MSRP): $54,995 - $59,995 (not including all options)
  • Body Type: 5-door SUV
  • Layout: Front engine, AWD
  • Base Engine: 208 hp, 236 lb-ft torque, 2.5-L, I-5, low-pressure turbo
  • Opt Engine: 268 hp, 280 lb-ft torque, 2.9-L, I-6, twin turbo
  • Transmission: 5-spd auto
  • Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS and EBD
  • Cargo Cap (seats folded): 2404 L (85 cu ft)
  • Ground Clearance: 218 mm (8.6 in)
  • Curb Weight: N/A
  • Fuel Economy (city/hwy): N/A
  • Warranty (mo/km): 4-year/80,000 comprehensive
  • Competitors: Acura MDX, BMW X5, Cadillac Escalade, GMC Envoy XL, Infiniti QX4, Lexus LX 470, Lincoln Aviator, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Oldsmobile Bravada, VW Touareg
  • Web Site: www.volvocanada.com
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada