2004 Volvo XC90 Review

The Volvo XC90 sport-utility vehicle was destined to be a hit after arriving as a new 2003 model because many Volvo loyalists value practicality and roominess. That's why they bought so many Volvo station wagons.

The XC90 has few changes for 2004. It feels carlike because it's based on the unibody platform of the front-drive Volvo S80, with some revisions. For example the XC90 has an optional Roll Stability Control system to prevent what some sport-utility owners dread: a rollover.

Helping keep the XC90 stable are its long 112.6-inch wheelbase, wide stance and low center of gravity.

Volvo naturally is big on safety, so the XC90 also has standard anti-lock disc brakes and anti-skid and traction-control systems, not to mention front torso side air bags and head-protecting curtain side air bags covering the first two seating rows.

The XC90 seats up to five -- or up to seven with the optional third-row seat that's hard to reach and best left to kids. That seat is in the $595 Versatility Package and comes with a load-leveling rear suspension and third-row climate and audio controls.

The second-row bench seat splits 40-20-40 and there's an optional ($150) integrated child-booster seat for its middle section.

Another worthwhile option is a $400 rear obstacle detection system to prevent a driver from accidentally backing over, say, a child's bike.

Both versions of the XC90 have a combination liftgate/drop-down tailgate with a low opening to facilitate loading of the large cargo area.

The $34,790 2.5T version comes with a 208-horsepower turbocharged five-cylinder engine. It has either front- or all-wheel drive ($1,775).

The $40,965 T6 version comes only with all-wheel drive and a larger twin-turbocharged six-cylinder motor that produces 268 horsepower.

The 2.5T engine works with a five-speed automatic transmission, while the T6 has a four-speed automatic. Both have a manual shift gate, but no low-range gearing for serious off-road driving.

Acceleration is acceptable with the lower-horsepower engine if a driver isn't in too much of a hurry. The T6 engine sounds gruff when pushed, but provides much faster -- but hardly neck-snapping -- acceleration.

Neither engine is very economical -- not that many mid-size sport-utes can brag about fuel economy. The 2.5T delivers an estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway, while the T6 provides 15 and 20.

Figure on getting a few less miles per gallon during real-world driving because the 2.5T weighs 4,361 pounds and the T6 tips the scales at 4,638 pounds.

Styling of this sport-ute makes it appear smaller than it is, but it's about the size of the fairly large Acura MDX. Prospective buyers should check their garage space.

Neighbors should know this is a Volvo because it has nicely sculpted lines, a prominent "egg-crate'' grille and V-shaped hood.

But will the XC90 impress them? Hard to say. It competes against the Acura MDX, BMW X3, Lexus RX 330 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class -- and it's tough to top the Lexus, BMW and Mercedes nameplates.

With an auto platform and all-independent suspension, the XC90 gets good marks for ride, handling and steering, although the steering has a rather artificial feel. The brakes work well, stopping this hefty SUV quickly and surely.

The interior of the XC90 looks rather somber, despite standard wood trim. But the dashboard is intelligently designed. It has easily read gauges, large climate control system controls and fairly large sound system controls. However, the accelerator pedal has an unusually long throw.

Leather upholstery is standard for the 2.5T and in a $2,575 Premium Package, which also contains items such as a front power passenger seat, power sunroof and an AM/FM radio with an in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

The XC90 is tall, but it's not hard getting in or out because it has a fairly low floor and seats designed for easy entry and exit. Occupants sit high, with a good view or surroundings.

While hardly inexpensive, even the base XC90 is loaded with equipment. It includes automatic climate control, tilt-telescoping steering wheel and the usual array of power accessories, including a power driver's seat.

The XC90 should continue to win customers because it feels more like a tall station wagon than a sport-utility vehicle while providing plenty of utility.

VOLVO XC90

Prices
$34,790-$40,965

Likes
Carlike. Roomy. Nice styling. Rollover protection system.

Dislikes
Hard-to-reach third seat. Unrefined 5-cylinder engine. Not much passion here.