2008 Volvo XC90 Review

July 28, 2008

STYLING | 7 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

new interior and exterior trim changes (V8 models)
J.D. Power

bigger, taller version of the popular XC70 wagon
Kelley Blue Book

V-8 version comes standard with 18-inch wheels for '08
Car and Driver

overall design is getting a bit stale
Edmunds

TheCarConnection.com researched road tests from across the Web on the 2008 Volvo XC90 and finds that the basic SUV shape is aging well, inside and out.

Available since 2005, the XC90 still looks fresh and well proportioned. Kelley Blue Book thinks "the XC90 looks like a bigger, taller version of the popular XC70 wagon” and points out that "all the familiar Volvo styling cues are present, including the raised-V hood bulge and the elongated taillights running the length of the D-pillars." Cars.com says the XC90 has the "smoother, friendlier look that's been present since the early 2000s" in the latest Volvos. Motor Trend notes that in 2007, the SUV got “a new grille, bumpers, and taillights,” but took note of the XC90’s "stealth image." Road & Track says "to further accentuate the sporty nature and to create a sleeker appearance, the car is not fitted with roof rails, although these are still available as an option." Edmunds had a rare complaint for the XC90, saying its "overall design is getting a bit stale."

Inside, the interior is laid out well and dressed in conservative-looking but expensive-feeling trim. Cars.com states, "the dashboard and instrument panel dome employ slanted, angular themes, as does a three-spoke steering wheel with audio and cruise controls.” Kelley Blue Book also notes that "tending towards understated, the interior is tastefully appointed and very user-friendly." Car and Driver compliments the “first rate” cabin design.

Conclusion

The 2008 Volvo XC90 is aging well, but a refresh should come soon.

STYLING | 7 out of 10Expert Quotes:new interior and exterior trim changes (V8 models)J.D. Powerbigger, taller version of the popular XC70 wagonKelley Blue BookV-8 version comes standard with 18-inch wheels for '08Car and Driveroverall design is getting a bit staleEdmunds TheCarConnection.com researched road tests from across the Web on the 2008 Volvo XC90 and finds that the basic SUV shape is aging well, inside and out. Available since 2005, the XC90 still looks fresh and well proportioned. Kelley Blue Book thinks "the XC90 looks like a bigger, taller version of the popular XC70 wagon” and points out that "all the familiar Volvo styling cues are present, including the raised-V hood bulge and the elongated taillights running the length of the D-pillars." Cars.com says the XC90 has the "smoother, friendlier look that's been present since the early 2000s" in the latest Volvos. Motor Trend notes that in 2007, the SUV got “a new grille, bumpers, and taillights,” but took note of the XC90’s "stealth image." Road & Track says "to further accentuate the sporty nature and to create a sleeker appearance, the car is not fitted with roof rails, although these are still available as an option." Edmunds had a rare complaint for the XC90, saying its "overall design is getting a bit stale." Inside, the interior is laid out well and dressed in conservative-looking but expensive-feeling trim. Cars.com states, "the dashboard and instrument panel dome employ slanted, angular themes, as does a three-spoke steering wheel with audio and cruise controls.” Kelley Blue Book also notes that "tending towards understated, the interior is tastefully appointed and very user-friendly." Car and Driver compliments the “first rate” cabin design. ConclusionThe 2008 Volvo XC90 is aging well, but a refresh should come soon.  2008 VOLVO XC90 STYLING | [7 out of 10] J.D. Power: "new interior and exterior trim changes (V8 models)" Kelley Blue Book: "bigger, taller version of the popular XC70 wagon" Car and Driver: "V-8 version comes standard with 18-inch wheels for '08" Edmunds: "overall design is getting a ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

The 2008 Volvo XC90 has excellent competition in its class. The Acura MDX has Honda's enviably smooth engine and transmission, along with a relatively new shape, while the Volkswagen Touareg has great off-road capability. The VW and the Mercedes-Benz M-Class offer just two rows of seating; the Benz also comes in a high-powered V-8 version. The BMW X5 offers a small third-row seat and excellent dynamics, but a confusing interior.

Next Steps:

Check Insurance Rates

for the 2008 Volvo XC90

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for the 2008 Volvo XC90

Check Local Classifieds

for a 2008 Volvo XC90 near you

See the Volvo XC90 in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003

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