Volvo XC90 Review

Volvo XC90

The intelligent AWD system uses a variety of sensors to monitor the road surface and the steering wheel, brake and accelerator pedal positions. In normal driving conditions on dry roads, 95 per cent of the power is distributed to the front wheels. However, for off-road work, or if the sensors detect slippage, between 5 and 65 per cent of the power/torque is diverted to the rear wheels to maximise traction, if required.

I cannot see too many XC90 owners venturing too far off the beaten track (the lack of locking differentials and a low ratio gearbox may hinder progress) but when towing or during inclement weather Volvo’s XC90 should cope well.

Ease of Use

The Volvo XC90 features a very clever and family friendly interior with 64 different seating configurations, and no I didn’t count them all. In normal mode there are 5 seats, but should you need to ship an extra two passengers there are two more seats hidden in the rear load floor which fold totally flat into the floor. All of the 7 seats have full 3-point seat belts. Access to the 3rd row seats is a little difficult and more suited to children than adults as are the seats - but perfectly fine for occasional use. With the 3rd row seats in place the XC90's luggage potential is compromised and there is little load space for the family - 249 litres, to be precise, so if you are going on holiday with 7 people you will need a top box on the roof. Roof rails are a no cost option on the sport model.

If you are more interested in the XC90's cargo potential then all of the passenger seats can be folded down - Both the second and third rows of seats can be folded down to create an entirely flat luggage compartment floor which is 3845mm long and 1127mm wide, with a volume of 1837 litres. In addition, the front passenger seat also folds forwards to accommodate extra-long loads.

Volvo XC90