When the 2.5T is pushed, it takes an undue period of time to snap to attention and start delivering. When it finally does deliver some decent power, the effort is short-lived. The turbocharged five-cylinder
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| The turbocharged five-cylinder 2.5T powerplant runs out of breath well before reaching redline. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
powerplant runs out of breath well before reaching redline. This is somewhat unusual for a turbocharged, 4-valve per-cylinder engine equipped with constant variable valve timing. Although rated at a considerable 236 foot-pounds of torque, the wheezy performance of the 2.5 may relate to its admirable Ultra Low Emission II designation. At any rate, prospective purchasers should drive both the 2.5T and T6 versions to avoid possible performance anxiety, or worse buyer's remorse. The XC90 T6 utilizes a turbocharged, inline 6-cylinder powerbroker, capable of producing a respectable 268-horsepower and 280 foot-pounds of torque. Of course, a commensurate boost in
fuel consumption should be anticipated.
I don't like starting-off the review of a truly fine automobile with a negative theme, so on to the more positive
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| The AWD system on the XC90 does an excellent job of maximizing traction and road-holding. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
aspects of the XC90. What power is deliverable goes primarily to the front wheels through a driver adaptive, 5-speed automatic transmission featuring a manual mode termed "Geartronic." This unit shifts smartly and smoothly and exhibits a desire to make the best of the 2.5T engine. The all-wheel-drive system, standard on all XC90s, does an excellent job of maximizing traction and road-holding by directing torque to the wheel or wheels with the greatest grip - whether the combination is front to rear, or side to side. Volvo has also incorporated a low-speed traction control system, called TRACS, into the AWD apparatus.
