Volvo XC90 D5 2007 Review

Road Test

Launched onto the local market in 2003, the XC90 was Volvo's first foray into the big SUV market. And as has been the case with many Volvos, while its ergonomics, packaging and safety credentials were very good, it was let down by and average powertrain and ordinary driving dynamics.

So when it came to upgrading the model with a mid-life change late last year, it was the mechanical specs that received the most attention -- in particularly the engines.

Three new engines now sit under the bonnet of the big, seven-seat SUV with an entry level 175kW/320Nm 3.2-litre straight six petrol, 136kW/400Nm all-alloy 2.4-litre turbodiesel and in a first for Volvo, a 232kW/440Nm 4.4-litre petrol V8. All three engines drive through a new six-speed automatic transmission and with the diesel expected to be the biggest seller, it was The Carsales Network's choice for a week long test.

Little has changed on the visual front and while the XC90 is undoubtedly a big car, it is not as boxy as some of its rivals and actually looks quite compact. Step inside, however, and there is plenty of space with everything arranged in a very competent and logical fashion.

The front seats are comfortable and accommodating and with myriad electric adjustment for the driver and a two-way adjustable steering column, getting a good driving position is easy.

This practicality and user-friendliness extends through the rear with the second row of seats split into three with all three sections able to slide individually offering a degree of flexibility for different sized bodies. The third row features two individual pews that are big enough to seat adults over shorter journeys and when not in use, fold flat into the floor.

Leather trim, power windows, mirrors and driver's seat, climate control with separate controls for the rear and a good quality (albeit single slot only) CD audio system take care of comfort while typical Volvo safety is assured with six airbags (including side curtains), ABS brakes and DSTC stability and traction control all standard.

And so to the changed mechanicals. Turn the key and there is a distinctive engine note. Not entirely what you might expect as there is little evidence of the often-agricultural sounding diesel tick but rather a vibrant 'thrum' courtesy of the five-cylinder configuration.

Moderate pressure on the accelerator pedal induces adequate thrust off the line but the engine really doesn't deliver its all until its spinning over 2000rpm. From here on up through to about 4000rpm, the torque delivery is strong and sustained, ensuring good in gear urge for overtaking or dealing with hills.

Even substantially loaded with four onboard and an assortment of cargo for a family picnic, the engine proved more than up to the task of getting the 2000kg- plus bulk of the XC90 moving at a reasonable rate. It also returned reasonable fuel consumption with our 260km day trip registering an economy figure of 10.1lt/100km.

Under most driving conditions, the engine is quiet and refined only getting more vocal if you push it into the upper reaches of the rev band. It is superbly mated to a slick, smooth and efficient six-speed auto transmission that unfailingly manages to select the right ratio for the conditions and driving style.

Changes to the suspension include retuned springs and dampers and although the XC90 is noticeably firmer in the ride, it is still designed very much with a comfort bias. And around town and on the highway, it does deliver a very comfortable, solid and secure ride. Head off onto a country C-grade road however, and at higher speeds, the car does start to bounce around over larger undulations. It is not too disconcerting but does tend to get a bit annoying over time.

The firmer suspension settings have substantially improved the handling but the Volvo is still not a car that you feel overly confident to push too hard. Body roll has been minimised and there is good traction from the tyres and all-wheel-drive system. That said the steering still lacks precision and feel and you do there’s no disguising the mass of the car if you try to maintain too high a pace down a twisting country road.

With the new engine, transmission and retuned suspension, the XC90 is a much more complete and competitive package than the previous model. Most at home doing the school run or moderately cruising the highways, its value, practicality and safety are still its best assets.

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