Unlike the XC90, which has remained essentially the same for a decade, most of the XC90's rivals have been recently redesigned.
That said, it remains competitive, as it was very advanced for its time and one of the first well-designed large crossovers geared more for passenger use than off-road cred.
The BMW X5 offers a small third-row seat but excellent dynamics.
The Volkswagen Touareg and Mercedes-Benz M Class are both limited to just two rows of seats, but both have seen major redesigns.
The Mercedes-Benz M Class in particular is more refined than previous versions while still offering some off-road ability.
The latest Touareg loses some weight and becomes more practical for family use.
For those who want a more nimble driving feel, the Acura MDX is the standout; it handles well and has a smooth, responsive powertrain.
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 2013 Volvo XC90Browse Used Listings |  2013 Acura MDXBrowse Used Listings |  2013 BMW X5Browse Used Listings |  2013 Mercedes-Benz M ClassBrowse Used Listings |  2013 Volkswagen TouaregBrowse Used Listings |
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The 2013 Volvo XC90 isn't cutting-edge in any way, but it's a smart, upscale pick for families who want to be comfortable and safe. |
The 2013 Acura MDX is one of the most satisfying and enjoyable vehicles to drive, if you must have three rows of seats. |
While it's not as fresh-faced as some of the competition, the 2013 BMW X5 continues to shine in utility, comfort, driving, and, in the X5 M, shockingly high performance. |
For families who want off-road or towing ability, but not a third row of seats, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz M Class is one of the most enjoyable, secure utility-vehicle picks. |
The 2013 Volkswagen Touareg delivers good performance and a luxurious interior--although it's a mainstream brand asking for a luxury-vehicle price. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $39,700 | $43,280 | $47,500 | $47,270 | $43,945 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 16 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 21 MPG Hwy | 12 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy | 13 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||||
| Gas I6 | Gas V6 | Turbocharged Gas I6 | Gas V6 | Gas V6 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| Sport Utility Vehicle - 2WD | Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD | 4WD Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Style Name | ||||
| FWD 4-Door | AWD 4-Door | AWD 4-Door xDrive35i | RWD 4-Door ML 350 | 4-Door VR6 Sport |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Front Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Four Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 7 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle - 4WD | Sport Utility Vehicle | 4 Door |
| Transmission | ||||
| Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/Manual Shift |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2013 Volvo XC90 vs. 2013 Acura MDX | 2013 Volvo XC90 vs. 2013 BMW X5 | 2013 Volvo XC90 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M Class | 2013 Volvo XC90 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Touareg | |
