Volvo XC90 Review
Published: 30th September 2007
Volvo XC90
In Car Entertainment and Satellite Navigation
The hard disk driven Satellite Navigation system is very impressive, instead of storing mapping data on a CD or DVD, it uses a hard disk drive to store detailed European maps. It seems quicker in operation than DVD based systems. It took us flawlessly from our base in Devon direct to the door of our holiday accommodation in deepest rural Ireland. The colour TFT screen gently rises up from the dashboard when in use and hides away when not in operation. You can control the system either from a remote control with the aid of a passenger or use the controls that are replicated on the back of the steering wheel. The navigation system is integrated with the RDS-TMC networks which keeps an eye on prevailing traffic problems along your navigated route and can be automatically set to avoid road works and accidents, so that you are not delayed. On our way home through Wales the M4 was closed and TMC intervened to help us avoid the accident.
The only drawback was the cost of the system at £2550 although it does include a GSM integrated phone system (simply add your SIM card) and Volvo’s on Call System. The on Call System is invaluable in the case of an accident or breakdown as it can alert the emergency services to your precise location or aid Volvo to get breakdown assistance to you. In the event of an accident if the air bags deploy or the seat belt pre-tensioner functions it will automatically call the emergency services with your location.
Our car was fitted with Volvo’s High Performance Audio System which is standard on all but the Executive XC90, which benefits from Dynaudio’s Premium Sound system. The standard 4 x 40w - eight speaker system is rather good although it does only have a single slot CD player; a 6-CD autochanger is available for an extra £250. It does benefit from an auxiliary socket for an MP3 player.
How It Looks - Exterior
In designing the XC90 Volvo has managed to retain the family DNA, whilst giving the XC90 a unique identity. The XC90 is gently rounded with elegant lines and pronounced shoulders. It has a distinctive V-shaped bonnet and characteristic Volvo rear lights.
How It Looks - Interior
The interior styling continues the Volvo ethos and we loved the contemporary aluminium trim and cream leather interior that was fitted to our car. The switchgear is visually minimal but perfectly functional.
Rivals
- Audi Q7, BMW X5, Land Rover Discovery 3, Lexus RX300, Porsche Cayenne and Volkswagen Touareg
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