2006 Volvo XC90 AWD V8

Power

Three-row seating is standard in the XC90; the fold down third row is suitable for a pair of kids. The second row seats two comfortably, three in a pinch. An available entertainment system embeds a separate screen in the back of each front row headrest, giving the second aisle front-and-center viewing. The first row is first cabin in terms of accommodations. Standard features on the V8 include a power moon roof, rear seat audio controls and a 6-CD, in dash changer. Volvo's seats are highly adjustable to support a variety of shapes and sizes. As with most forty-$omething vehicles, the center stack houses a sobering number of controls and switches, but Volvo's design is intuitive and not overly distracting from the business at hand.


When no one is seated behind you, the second row headrests can be coaxed to bow down, thereby improving your rear-3/4 sightlines. Storage capacity measures a robust 93 cubic feet with second and third row seats folded, and if you really want to spend some quality time with your possessions, you can even flatten the front passenger seat. The rear cargo area is accessed by means of a 70/30 split liftgate/tailgate; a one piece unit would've made more sense.


The XC90 is a well-rounded SUV. It combines rugged sport-utility looks with the feel of a station wagon. It's safe. It's comfortable. It has fine traction. And it has room for people and their trappings. With the left-brain checklist duly filled, the V8 goes on to score one for the right hemisphere. It has a fine, fast motor. This last element makes this model particularly intriguing, putting the boot as it does to Volvo's sensible shoes image. (www.volvocars.us/)