Volvo XC90 buyer’s guide

FROM £2,000 Original seven-seat SUV is a practical choice; just buy carefully

First generation of seven-seat SUV is now a used bargain

Road-biased SUVS were nothing new when Volvo introduced its first entry into the sector in 2002. What the Swedish brand did do was something that seems very obvious now, but which hadn’t been done before: the XC90 hhas a thirthird row of flat-folding seats in its boot, making it a seven-seater 4x4. It’s a formula that’s now commonplace, but that doesn’t make the XC90 any less desirable – although if you’d like one of these 4x4s, there is plenty that you need to know before buying.

History

THE XC90 arrived in November 2002, in 161bhp 2.4 D5 diesel or 272bhp 2.9 T6 turbo petrol forms. The Executive (from March 2003) brought rear entertainment; 18 months later a 2.5T petrol arrived, with an all-new 183bhp D5 from summer 2005.

A facelift in summer 2006 meant an exterior refresh and better trim materials, plus a 4.4-litre petrol V8. At the same time, a 3.2-litre engine replaced the previous T6 unit. The R-design of summer 2009 brought a sportier look, then from summer 2010 a 2.0litre D5 was introduced, for better economy.

By January 2011 there was a 197bhp 2.4 D5, while a year later another facelift brought LED tail-lamps, LED daytime running lights, reprofiled bubumpers and an improved infotainment system. An all-new Mk2 XC90 was launched in 2014.

Which one?

A PETROL XC90 can make a lot of sense if you convert it to LPG; the V8 is a superb tow car. The diesels provide easy cruising and towing, especially when the Geartronic automatic gearbox is fitted. However, this transmission increases fuel consumption and can be hesitant off the mark.

Exact specifications changed regularly but all 2009 model year XC90S had rear parking sensors, self-levelling suspension, climate and cruise control plus navigation. The SE added an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and leather-faced trim, while SE Lux also had active headlights, a powered front passenger seat, heated front chairs and leather upholstery. The Executive added wood trim and massaging front seats plus an upgraded sound system.

Alternatives

THE Land Rover Discovery 3 and 4 are roomy, luxurious and highly accomplished rivals to the XC90. Purchase and running costs are high, but they’re the best 4x4s if carrying seven people is key. If you want seven seats but space isn’t so much of a priority, the Audi Q7 and Mercedes GL are worth a look. Beautifully built and very well equipped, the two German cars come with some excellent diesel engines and are great at towing.

The Mitsubishi Shogun can carry seven and is very good off-road, but it’s completely outclassed by the Volvo on-road and feels downmarket in comparison. Another great SUV that’s well built, well equipped and tows effortlessly is the VW Touareg; however, this comes with only five seats.

Verdict

THE XC90 has been overtaken by a raft of rivals since it was launched 15 years ago. Even so, if you need a seven-seat SUV the king-sized Volvo is still worth a look as it was kept fresh with regular updates. Buy the newest car you can afford, as these tend to have more efficient engines and better-resolved electronics, plus Volvo kept the XC90 competitive by loading it up with ever more kit and improved cabin ambience.

Buying one of the cheaper XC90S on the market will prove a false economy: the running costs will be high relative to the purchase costs. Realistically, spend at least £10,000 to secure something that’ll provide years of pleasure as it earns its keep.

“Volvo kept the XC90 competitive by loading it up with ever more kit and improved cabin ambience”