Devon is impressed with the Volvo XC90 (Used)

The previous generation XC90 was our favorite luxury 4x4. It wasn’t as sharp to drive as a BMW X5 and the interior wasn’t classy like an Audi Q7 but it had a charm that was hard to ignore. Now the newer XC90 really does have a lot to live up to; not only in terms of helping Volvo stay afloat but also stamping it’s mark in the ever crowded ever serious luxury 4x4 segment. Tough gig!

Volvo does start off on the right notes with the new XC90 because both the exterior and interior looks are absolutely stunning; both help the XC90 leap light years ahead of the previous generation. Dare we say the XC90 is the most handsome 4x4 in this segment? But how does this all translate onto the road?

The sole engine choice for now is a 2-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder pumping out a hearty 315hp with standard all-wheel-drive. You might think that a tiny four-cylinder isn’t up to the job in the XC90 but you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how flexible the engine really is. We haven’t tested the XC90 fully laden but we are pretty sure that it won’t struggle thanks to a maximum tow rating of 5,000lbs.

Our tester car came equipped with air suspension and 20-inch alloys and the ride quality is actually good. Large bumps won’t even send shutters into the cabin. Handling is okay it won’t defy logic like a BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne but it holds its own well. Steering is smooth and offers excellent feedback. Refinement is good in the XC90, when at relaxed speeds you can barely hear a peep out of the engine and road noise is virtually unheard of. There is a bit of wind noise around the side mirrors but it’s far from intrusive or annoying.

Volvo has the best seats in the auto industry hands down. These seats provide enough comfort for drivers of all sizes. The infotainment system is actually quite easy to use and of course you get a full nine-inch display which adds a bit of class to the overall look and feel. All the controls are within easy reach and your view forwards and backwards is good. Boot space is okay with the third row seat in place. Fold the third row seat down and you’ve got even more space, fold down both rows and you have so much space that you would need a transit van if you find the space lacking.

The third row seat is actually quite roomy for adults, even though most will only tolerate it for short journeys. The second row space is generous too, in fact this is one of the few seven-seat 4x4s we’ve ever driven where the balance between utility and people carrier is so good that we have to give it a standing ovation.

T6-AWD gets navigation system, rain sensing windshield wipers and lane departure warning. T6 R-design adds integrated body-kit with 20-inch alloys and full-LED headlights. T6 AWD Inscription adds Nappa leather seating, ventilated seating surfaces and keyless entry with hands-free tailgate opening system. The amount of kit you get standard for the money is actually much more generous then what you would typically get standard on a BMW X5 and Mercedes ML.

We challenge you to find a BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne with the same equipment for similar money and what you’ll find is all the reasons why the XC90 is the better buy. It may not have the resale value of both brands yet but this XC90 looks promising and we do predict that the value will hold very well. Running costs are similar to that of the BMW and Porsche and even though Volvo doesn’t offer a diesel engine it will eventually offer a plug-in hybrid option which is predicted to be one of the greenest seven-seat 4x4s on sale until the Tesla Model-X arrives of course.

Interior quality is superb and many of the plastics feel classy and upmarket; a far departure from the previous generation. Volvo has scored above-average in reliability and we do see this being a new trend for years to come. If Volvo had a middle name it would be safety and everything that you could ever possibly want in terms of safety kit Volvo has it. The most notable of these systems is the city braking which works at speeds up to 30mph, by slowing you down and bring you to a complete stop if the driver so happens to take his or her eyes off the road.

When you think of luxury 4x4s most will venture to the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne because well both are good in their own right. However, the XC90 is better than both in its own way. It may not be as sharp to drive or defy logic, but it is a comfortable cruiser with an outstanding interior and can really fit seven people aboard. Plus it is one of the most handsome looking 4x4s we have ever seen in a while. Volvo really did tick all the right buttons and play all the right notes with the new XC90. Hopefully the new looks and well equipped trim-levels will lure buyers in because passing one up without giving it a real gander is a real shame because this 4x4 is a gem.

Devon’s pick: T6 AWD R-design is where our money would go. It feels like you get a lot of car for your money and still somehow you undercut the X5 and you’re still way below what you would have to pay if you picked the Cayenne. It’s classy and stylish plus we just love those LED headlights.

Like: The XC90 is the most handsome 4x4 in the segment and that style carries inside too. Infotainment system is easy to use and those seats are the best. It can really fit seven people aboard and somehow manages to undercut the heavy hitters in kit and price.

Dislikes: The auto gearbox is a little sluggish to react.

Devon test drives a BMW X5 (Used)

It's no exaggeration to say that the BMW X5 was a bit of a revolution when it was first launched. Many have questioned and even tried to duplicate it. The BMW X5 the logic defying 4x4 that is hard to ignore even with its heavy price tag.

Top of the range xDrive50i comes with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged eight-cylinder pumping out a hearty 445hp. It's insanely fast and is the perfect alternate for those who want an X5M but can't justify the higher price tag. Our pick however goes to the xDrive35d which comes with a silky smooth 3-liter turbo-diesel pumping out 255hp. The price tag isn't too much more than the xDrive35i trim and is perfect for those who do tons of highway driving.

On the road the X5 is actually very entertaining to drive. You'll forget that you're in a heavy 4x4 vehicle. Those who want an edgier driving experience may want to consider a lighter more agile M car or the M performance version of the X5. The ride comfort can get a little firm on some surfaces but it's far from uncomfortable or a deal breaker; too bad you'll have to pay the premium for the adaptive M suspension system to get the X5 to drive and handle the way it should. Wind and road noise are well suppressed and all engines sound smooth and refined at all speeds. The engine stop start system isn't all that refined and is rather disappointing because you'd expect a X5 with such a hefty price tag to have a smoother system.

Driver's will find their ideal driving position quite easily behind the wheel of the X5. You'll be very happy that all the controls and dials are within easy reach of the driver's hand. The new iDrive system is much easier to navigate through, however we aren't huge fans of the large infotainment screen that pops out the dash. It doesn't raise and lower into the dash like Audi's but it still is classy in its own right. Passengers in the second row won't even complain about space because it is in the bucket loads. Headroom is good and legroom is good, however if you option for the third row seat you'll only want to have kids back there. They won't have much fun either because it really is tight for space and the boot space will suffer with the third row seat in place. Fold that seat down and the space opens up dramatically. Fold the second row seat down and you've got yourself a cargo van.

You get what you pay for really does define BMW well. Xenon headlamps with LED day time running lamps come standard on all trims as well as, heated front seats, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and Bluetooth audio streaming. However, keyless, leather upholstery and rear view camera aren't even standard. We can think of quite a few rivals that offer these features standard and are similarly priced. Your investments will be well secured with the X5 however because it does enjoy high resale value even if the purchase price is step to downright insanely high.

Build quality is good thanks to many soft touch materials that feel sturdy and long lasting but BMW reliability becomes questionable after warranty expires. If you are planning to keep your X5 after standard warranty we strongly suggest opting for the extended warranty because the previous generation X5 was woeful in reliability and the newer generation we still hold that same concern. Safety is still on the top priority list of BMW and you get electronic stability program, brake assist, adaptive brake lamps and emergency brake assist. Side curtain airbags for both rows are standard and you can option for automatic high beam headlights to keep from dazzling oncoming traffic when high beams are activated.

The X5 really does defy logic. It handles well and can do some off-road trails as well. It can seat seven somewhat and is a classy well desirable option in the luxury 4x4 segment. However, the X5 doesn't go without its flaws. The engine stop start system isn't all that refined. Some options make the X5 more expensive than it already is, and the Volvo XC90 can carry seven people and is much classier inside out. It's hard ignoring the rivals for the X5 when some are cheaper and offer more kit that BMW puts as an option but for those seeking that BMW badge and won't settle for anything else, this is the car for you.

Likes: Logic defying on-road dynamics. Diesel engine option is quite good. It's classy image with excellent resale value.

Dislikes: Options and packages will sky rocket the price. Running costs won't be cheap either. No standard rear view camera and at this price point is disappointing. We loathe the stop start system.

Xdrive35d is our pick of the range; that diesel engine is silky smooth and refined. If you do tons of highway driving this is the best way to go. Everyone else may want to consider the xDrive35i trim because it is slightly cheaper but most importantly it may find more appeal for those who won't be able to find a diesel refilling station in their area.

(Look-back review) Devon test drives a Mercedes ML

If you’re looking for a luxury sport utility vehicle that’s stylish and well rounded. You might first think of the BMW X5 which in fact is a great choice. But what if you want something a bit more posh and slightly more comfortable? Then the Mercedes ML may tick all the right buttons.

Performance: The standard ML350 has a 3.5-liter six-cylinder producing 302hp. You can step up to a ML350 Blue-TEC which has a 3-liter turbo-diesel producing 240hp. ML550 uses a 4.6-liter bi-turbocharged eight-cylinder with a massive 402hp while top of the range AMG has a handcrafted 5.5-liter bi-turbocharged eight-cylinder producing a staggering 518hp. Pick of the range is the standard ML350 which will satisfy most buyers. The diesel engine option also makes sense if you do tons of highway driving.

On the road: You may think that the ML is cushy thanks to the soft suspension set up. However, this is not the case here. The ride feels harsh over rough surfaces and does very little at faster pace. The X5 feels more composed. If you option for the air suspension system things will improve. The AMG fitted models have an overly firm ride but improves handling quite a bit. The engines including the diesel feel smooth in operation. Road nose won’t be an issue however it’s sad that wind noise enters the cabin at speeds above 50mph.

Behind the wheel: The only complaints we have with the interior is the single stalk that is used for the turn signal and windshield wipers. Also touch screen infotainment system has too many menus that can be distracting to use on the go. Other than that the driving position is spot on. Interior for the most part is user friendly and visibility all round is decent.

Equipment: ML350 gets leather seats, LED daytime running lamps, 19 inch alloy wheels and dual-zone auto climate control. You’ll have to step up the ML550 to get unique body-kit, power tailgate and heated front seats. Top of the range AMG gets eco stop/start system. 20 inch alloy wheels, active ventilated leather seats with bi-xenon headlamps as well as AMG body-kit.

Buying & owning: The ML is slightly cheaper than the X5 but it isn’t really cheaper by much. You’ll have to pay for optional kit such as bi-xenon headlamps, power folding mirrors and keyless start which most will likely want and of course will push the price higher than we can say is not justifiable. If you pick and choose your options wisely you’ll walk away with a decently priced ML with good resale value thanks to the Mercedes badge.

Quality: The cabin feels well-crafted with much of the controls and dials feeling sturdy. However you’ll want to be mindful of the fact that Mercedes has consistently scored below Audi, BMW and Mercedes when it comes to reliability of its products.

Safety: The standard safety kit extends from seven airbags, attention assist which monitors driver fatigue and pop up bonnet for pedestrian safety. An anti-theft alarm system comes standard but Mercedes rejects deadlocks on the grounds of safety reasons.

The Mercedes ML is a great choice if you want something other than the X5 and Range Rover Sport. It’s stylish and offers plenty of kit for the money. But you’ll have to pay for the features that you’ll most likely want and these options aren’t cheap. It will push the ML price steep pretty quickly. If you can ignore these few negatives you’ll find the ML is a well-rounded luxury sport utility vehicle with plenty going for it.

Likes: Stylish inside out with generous cabin space, strong range of engines to choose from.

Dislikes: Add on the options watch the price sky rocket. Bi-xenon headlamps should be standard across the range rather than limited to just the AMG trim. Disappointing drive without air suspension fitted and that’s optional.

Devon’s pick: The ML350 is the most logical choice thanks to it being the cheapest to buy. But we feel that you’ll get a better deal with the ML350 Blue-TEC. It may cost a bit more than the ML350 but it makes the most sense especially if you do lots of highway driving.

ML350 ***

Likes: Smooth and flexible six-cylinder. Clearly the most logical choice if you stay clear of the options list.

Dislikes: So many options and so many of them are expensive.

ML350 Blue-TEC ****

Likes: Smooth and sophisticated diesel engine. Massive torque at low revs makes it more flexible with higher towing ratings.

Dislikes: Running costs almost similar to ML350. At this price point some options shouldn’t be optional.

ML550 ***

Likes: It’s the closest thing to an AMG without going overboard.

Dislikes: Running costs will be steep. Why are Bi-Xenon headlamps only optional?

ML63 AMG *

Likes: Outrageously fast. AMG crafted interior and exterior.

Dislikes: Outrageously expensive to buy and run.