2008 Volvo XC90 Review

Volvo's well-founded reputation as a worldwide leader in the manufacture of safe, dependable cars and trucks can be seen in all aspects of the 2008 XC90 luxury SUV. The model offers buyers plenty of standard features, as well as a host of attractive options, which means any XC90 can be built to fit its buyer's needs.

The 2008 XC90 comes in one of three trim levels-3.2, V8 AWD, or V8 AWD Sport. The 3.2 is powered by a 235-horsepower 3.2L inline six-cylinder, mated to a six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on the 3.2, while all-wheel drive with Instant Traction is optional. Both the V8 AWD and V8 AWD Sport 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 six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission found in the 3.2.

All three 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 come equipped for Sirius satellite radio. While the 3.2 rides on 17-inch alloy wheels, the V8 AWD comes with 18-inch alloys, and the Sport gets 19-inchers. Several styles in all three sizes are optional, as are active bi-xenon headlights.

Unique to all V8 models are speed dependent steering, eight-way power adjustable passenger seat, third row seats, leather upholstery, and wood inlays. The V8 AWD Sport adds sporty exterior features, sport leather interior with a leather-clad sport steering wheel and shift knob, special floor mats, rear dual-DVD entertainment system, and more.

Several packages are available for all three trim levels, which add both comfort and convenience to any 2008 Volvo XC90. For the 3.2 a Premium Package adds a power moonroof, leather seating, a power passenger seat, and in-dash six-disc CD changer. DVD Navigation can be added as well. The V8 AWD can be ordered with an Executive Package, with premium 19-inch wheels, extra soft leather, and high quality floor mats. In the V8 AWD Sport, outfitting the Technology Package gets Sirius satellite radio with a six-month subscription, a premium sound system, and active bi-xenon headlights. All XC90s have available standalone options, including the $695 Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)

Standard Volvo safety features include 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.
The Volvo XC90 was substantially redesigned in 2007, so for 2008, changes are minimal. V8 models get a few minor exterior updates, including 18-inch wheels, which replace 17-inch wheels as standard. see less