XC90's steering invites involvement, the chassis feels lively and obedient, and the automatic all wheel drive and stability control help to keep things in check, too. From a stop, the Instant Traction AWD system puts the rear axle to work within half a wheel rotation of slippage from up front. No buttons or levers, just maximum automatic thrust in even the sloppiest conditions.
On clear roads
For an SUV gone sports car, the compromises are balanced well. XC90 generally rides with surprising comfort, especially given its massive wheels. It falls slightly behind the solid and heavy feel you'll find in the brand's smaller machines on rougher surfaces though, and the twenties can pound hard into larger bumps.
The highway ride is quiet, peaceful even. Of course, the proud, resonating rumble of the Yamaha-built V8 is available at any throttle jab- usually accompanied by a hesitation-free downshift or two. The 4.4 liter mill delivers spirited acceleration, confident passing and about 16 L / 100km in the combined fuel consumption department. The sound effects and smooth performance are addicting.
A comfortable, slightly dated interior
The tester offered seating for up to 7 passengers, or spacious travel for 4 adults and some gear. This isn't a bus, so forget taking six co-workers out for lunch if you consider yourself a good friend. With the rear row folded flat, cargo space is adequate though- and the split tailgate with flat load floor makes loading skis, gear and shopping a cinch.
Driving quarters are a 'just right' size: The view ahead is commanding, yet the feeling of clumsy largeness some SUV's exhibit is absent here: it's like driving a big car, not a small tank. No issues with build quality were present, and rearward visibility is above-average. Look for sexy metallic watch-dial instruments, beautiful leather seats and metallic accenting to jazz up the otherwise dark cabin.
Controls are fairly intuitive, albeit those for the stereo which require a bit of a learning curve. Some buttons and switches look a touch dated by Volvo standards, and you'll note better tactile feedback at the fingertips in an X5, MDX or Mercedes-Benz ML.
$69,000 worth of style and peace of mind?
When it comes to travelling confidently any day of the year, few machines can match the SUV. And, when it comes to safety, there are few machines that can match a Volvo. Stands to reason that an SUV that's also a Volvo will deliver huge amounts of peace of mind. If you want V8 power and killer looks with that, XC90 R-Design V8 starts at $68,295.
photo:Justin Pritchard
On clear roads
For an SUV gone sports car, the compromises are balanced well. XC90 generally rides with surprising comfort, especially given its massive wheels. It falls slightly behind the solid and heavy feel you'll find in the brand's smaller machines on rougher surfaces though, and the twenties can pound hard into larger bumps.
The highway ride is quiet, peaceful even. Of course, the proud, resonating rumble of the Yamaha-built V8 is available at any throttle jab- usually accompanied by a hesitation-free downshift or two. The 4.4 liter mill delivers spirited acceleration, confident passing and about 16 L / 100km in the combined fuel consumption department. The sound effects and smooth performance are addicting.
 |
| Controls are fairly intuitive, albeit those for the stereo which require a bit of a learning curve. |
A comfortable, slightly dated interior
The tester offered seating for up to 7 passengers, or spacious travel for 4 adults and some gear. This isn't a bus, so forget taking six co-workers out for lunch if you consider yourself a good friend. With the rear row folded flat, cargo space is adequate though- and the split tailgate with flat load floor makes loading skis, gear and shopping a cinch.
Driving quarters are a 'just right' size: The view ahead is commanding, yet the feeling of clumsy largeness some SUV's exhibit is absent here: it's like driving a big car, not a small tank. No issues with build quality were present, and rearward visibility is above-average. Look for sexy metallic watch-dial instruments, beautiful leather seats and metallic accenting to jazz up the otherwise dark cabin.
Controls are fairly intuitive, albeit those for the stereo which require a bit of a learning curve. Some buttons and switches look a touch dated by Volvo standards, and you'll note better tactile feedback at the fingertips in an X5, MDX or Mercedes-Benz ML.
$69,000 worth of style and peace of mind?
When it comes to travelling confidently any day of the year, few machines can match the SUV. And, when it comes to safety, there are few machines that can match a Volvo. Stands to reason that an SUV that's also a Volvo will deliver huge amounts of peace of mind. If you want V8 power and killer looks with that, XC90 R-Design V8 starts at $68,295.
photo:Justin Pritchard
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