2008 Volvo XC90 [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 38 XC90 reviews and test drives.
Volvo XC90 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Volvo XC90 ranks 10 out of 14 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 38 published reviews and test drives of the Volvo XC90, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The XC90's comfortable and kid-friendly interior, adequate performance and excellent safety record make it a first-rate family SUV.
The Volvo XC90 offers good performance, a comfortable and kid-friendly interior and an excellent safety record. BusinessWeek says: "If you're looking for a classy family vehicle that's safe as a tank, the Volvo XC90 should definitely be on your shopping list. It's the first luxury sport-utility vehicle I've come across with a longer list of safety features on its sticker than comfort and convenience gear." Reviewers agree that the XC90 offers a good value for its class, but they caution that its relatively low base price can quickly swell with options.
The 2008 XC90 comes in three trims -- the base 3.2L V6; the XC90 V8 AWD, which adds a 4.4-liter V8 engine, all-wheel drive and standard third-row seating; and the XC90 V8 AWD Sport, which adds sporty interior and exterior features.
- "Sometimes you just want a car to pamper you. You know, nice comfortable seats with soft cowhide, an efficient ventilation system that one not conversant in Latin can operate, a quiet ride, and a good audio system. All were in the XC90 wagon, or sport utility or whatever my fellow Swedes call it. For the entire weeklong test period, the Volvo was a delight." -- MarketWatch
- "Attention to detail and a new drivetrain make the Volvo XC90 a first-rate luxury crossover SUV." -- The Auto Channel
- "Too many aggravations for XC90 to be the perfect SUV, but the comfort, good looks and layers of safety make it tempting nonetheless. And the whiz-bang V-8 is so much fun and so satisfying that you're to be pardoned if you rationalize away the gaffes quicker than a dealer can say, 'Sign here.'" -- USA Today
XC90 Performance - 7.0 (Good)
Our analysis shows that the 2008 Volvo XC90 offers good, but not great, performance for its class. With a six-cylinder and a V8 engine available, the XC90 offers buyers a choice between a fair amount of power at a low price or abundant power at a premium. Forbes says the XC90 offers "an appealing blend of comfort and handling that will satisfy most drivers." Continue with our full Performance Review to learn which engine option is right for you. continue
XC90 Exterior - 7.3 (Good)
Reviews are generally positive about the exterior styling of the 2008 Volvo XC90, though most note that the design is neither cutting-edge nor particularly daring. Road and Track says the XC90 "has a rugged appearance but one that's not extreme." Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn about the XC90's easy-to-use tailgate, or check out our Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
XC90 Interior - 7.0 (Good)
The consensus on the interior of the 2008 Volvo XC90 is that it is very comfortable and kid-friendly, but not as luxurious as some others in its class. BusinessWeek says, "The XC90 feels less luxurious inside than just plain solid." Though the first row is considered comfortable, reviewers have mixed opinions on comfort in the second row and optional third row. Continue with our Interior Review to learn about the flexible and family-friendly seating arrangements, or check out our interior photos. continue
XC90 Safety - 9.8 (Excellent)
The 2008 Volvo XC90 does well in federal government crash tests. Carrying on Volvo's reputation, it is widely regarded as one of the safest luxury SUVs on the market. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn about the XC90's impressive crash protection features -- which all come standard. continue
XC90 Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Volvo XC90 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The XC90 comes with a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review. continue
