Strengths

Excellent highway manners with comfortable ride; impressive safety features; solid, tank-like build quality; V8 power; pleasing interior.

 

Changes

For 2009 the Volvo XC90 benefits from the sporty R-design package that Volvo has been introducing across its vehicle range in Europe. The R-design brings a sportier suspension, double exhaust pipes, unique skid plates and R-design specific styling throughout.

 

Value

The Volvo XC90 occupies a spot in a competitive luxury SUV class that includes the Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. Amid the segment, the 2009 XC90 offers loads of standard comfort and safety features. Both 6-cylinder and V8 models are priced lower than most of the competition, and the 10-year/100,000-mile rust warranty is tops. With plenty of durability, comfort, and safety available in a Volvo XC90, the vehicle makes a strong case for itself.

 

Overview

The 2009 XC90 has had a shake up in trim levels. They now include the 3.2, 3.2 R-Design, V8, or V8 R-Design. The 3.2 and 3.2 R-Design are powered by a 235-horsepower 3.2L inline 6-cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed Geartronic automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on the 3.2, while all-wheel drive with Instant Traction is optional. The V8 and V8 R-Design come with Volvo's 311-horsepower 4.4L V8, which puts out 325 lb-ft of torque at 5,850 rpm. All-wheel drive with Instant Traction is standard on V8 models, as is the 6-speed Geartronic automatic transmission found in the 3.2.

All trim levels share dozens of standard features, including front and rear reading lights, tilt/telescoping steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, one-touch power windows front and rear, a 70/30 split tailgate, heated power mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power driver's seat with memory, a flat-folding 40/20/40 second row seat, and when equipped, a similar third-row seat. All XC90 models also come equipped for Sirius satellite radio.

While all V8 models offer speed dependent steering, 8-way power adjustable passenger seat, seating for seven, leather upholstery and wood inlays. The R-design badge adds sport-tuned suspension and steering, larger alloy wheel options and unique styling and trim including R-Design specific leather seats and steering wheel, brushed stainless sill moldings and silk-matte-finish accents.

Several packages are available throughout the lineup, which add both comfort and convenience to any 2009 Volvo XC90. For the 3.2 a Premium Package adds a power moonroof, leather seating, a power passenger seat and in-dash 6-disc CD changer. DVD Navigation can be added as well. The V8 can be ordered with an Executive Package that includes premium 19-inch wheels, extra soft leathe, and high quality floor mats. Also available to all models is the Convenience package which adds navigation, power retractable rear view mirror, rear park assist and interior air quality system and the Technology which offers premium sound, dual xenon headlights with active bending lights, 6-month subscription to Sirius Satellite radio, and rear headphone jacks and audio controls.

Volvo has loaded the XC-90 with loads of standard safety features including daytime running lights, anti-lock brakes with electronic assistance, stability, traction, and anti-skid control, as well as a reinforced cabin full of air bags both front and rear.