2007 Volvo XC90 Review

The 2007 XC90 remains Volvo's only full-fledged SUV. When properly equipped, it can tow nearly 5,000 pounds, and an available third row seat allows two nearly full-size adults to scoot in behind the very versatile middle seat. Both front- and all-wheel drive are available.

The utility part of the XC90 equation is well covered by 92 cubic feet of available cargo space when all the seats are folded. A short, light tailgate makes for very easy loading.

A new 3.2L six-cylinder engine replaces the 2.5L turbo five-cylinder that has been standard on the XC90 since its 2003 debut. The new six-cylinder produces 235 horsepower and, thanks to a very flat torque curve, 236 ft-lbs of grunt are available at 3,200 rpms. The six-speed automatic transmission does an excellent job of keeping the engine in the powerband, so acceleration is practically perky. A 311-horsepower V8 is available for more power, in all-wheel drive only.

Up front, any Volvo owner will feel instantly at home behind the chunky steering wheel, and the easy-to-read gauges. Power seats with memory, remote keyless entry, cruise control, a CD player, and a trip computer are some of the standard features. An optional sunroof, rear park assist, auto-dimming mirrors, heated front seats, navigation, and a dual-screen rear seat entertainment system are all available.

As with every Volvo, there is plenty of safety built in. The XC90's steel cage provides a safety envelope that is stuffed full with every safety innovation Volvo can muster. Head curtain bags join front and side air bags, and roll stability control senses and attempts to halt any impending rollover. Standard ABS and traction and stability controls, as well as an optional blind spot notification system, round out the safety equipment.
Volvo changed the engine lineup in the XC90 for 2007. Instead of offering a version of the long-running turbo-charged 2.5L, a 3.2L inline-six that generates 235 horsepower is now standard. This engine is available with either front- or all-wheel drive, and it is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The same 4.4L V8 that first appeared on the 2004 XC90 continues to be optional with all-wheel drive. In addition, the XC90's exterior has been mildly reworked. An optional blind spot information system enhances the safety level of one of the safest SUVs on the road. see less