The exterior design theme of the XC90 accurately adheres to the current Volvo design trend. There is no mistaking it for anything other than a Volvo. If you have admired the ongoing evolution of the brand's sedan and wagon designs, as I have, you will undoubtedly find the XC90 fresh, distinctive and decidedly Swedish. The vehicle is very well proportioned, rather angular with broad shoulders - and no, I'm not looking in the mirror!
 |
| The XC90's exterior appearance is fresh, distinctive and decidedly Swedish. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
But with that last thought it isn't too big either. Even factoring in its third-row seat capability, the XC90 is far from being the largest of SUV choking the roads today. In fact it's only 2.3 cm (slightly less than an inch) longer than a Honda Pilot and almost identical in height, although the Pilot is 6.6 cm (2 inches) wider. The XC90's transversely mounted, inline 5-cylinder engine maximizes interior space while minimizing its pavement footprint. Due to its extra width, the Pilot treats its passengers to slightly more hip and shoulder room, however the XC90 claims a fraction more headroom. And if anyone is keeping score, the Pilot wins the legroom competition as well, but only by a centimeter (0.39 of an inch).
 |
| For my money, the XC90 has the most attractive and best-designed interior of any SUV. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
The XC90 makes extraordinarily good use of its "inner-space," and I don't mean in a spiritual way - that's up to its owners. For my money, the XC90 has the most attractive and best-designed interior of any SUV - hands down. From its superlative dash to the flat folding third-row seat, the interior of the XC90 is uniquely Volvo. I recently championed the interior of the Swedish brand's S80. The SUV's interior strongly resembles that of the luxury sedan, and is as good in every way. To me though, the XC90 wins for being so highly functional and perfectly laid-out.
