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.

[Updated] Volvo XC90 (All engines test driven)

The new Volvo XC90 is the best of the best when it comes to luxury 4x4s. The Swedes really are back in town.

Volvo has added several new engine choices since the launch of the new XC90. T5 trim gets a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder pumping out 250hp. T6 trim gets the same 2-liter engine but a turbocharged and supercharged layout pumping out 315hp. While the range topping T8 Hybrid gets the same 2-liter turbocharged & supercharged layout but boosts output to 400hp. Pick of the range still remains with the T6 which we think is the best way to go with the XC90. The entry T5 is okay but it just doesn’t feel as refined as it should be and the T8 Hybrid is more on the steep side of the pricing, which does pay for itself in standard kit and low running costs.

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.

Momentum trim comes with Full-LED headlights, navigation system, panoramic sunroof and collision mitigation support for the front. R-design adds 20-inch alloys, R-design design ques. Inscription trim adds ventilated leather seats, linear walnut wood inlays, 12.3 digital instrument display. Range toping Excellence adds Bowers & Wilkins Premium Sound System, beverage cooler/refrigerator and high-spec ventilation and massage function for front and rear seats.

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 does however offer a plug-in hybrid option which makes it one of the of the cleanest seven-seat crossovers behind the Tesla Model-X.

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. The T5 engine isn’t as refined as it should be.

T5 (Despite it being the cheapest of the range, the engine isn’t that refined. We certainly wish that Volvo aimed to make the best four-cylinders they possibly could. Despite that only gripe, it really is a good choice if you have your heart set out on a Volvo but can’t justify the T6.)

T6 (This is the best engine choice of the range. It offers the flexibility you’d desire and the running costs aren’t too much more than the T5. You get the standard features that make it a worthy contender against the X5 and Q7.)

T8 (We’ve finally had the opportunity to test drive this and well this is the crème de la crème of the range. The massive amount of torque at low revs helps make it feel more responsive than the T6 and you can also drive it on electric mode alone and up to 60mph. You’d think that this wasn’t worth it because the price tag is high, but looking at the keen rivals from Audi and BMW. Volvo pretty much justifies itself. It’s not our pick of the range but it certainly isn’t one you should ignore.)

Devon test drives an aging Volvo SUV (Used)

Volvo knows a thing or two about making practical and safe cars. The XC90 is no exception, even though it is stylish and more practical than its keen rivals. It's styling and interior design is lacking behind in times. Can Volvo still provide a valid reason why the XC90 should be on top of buyers list? Let's find out.

Performance: The 3.2-liter six-cylinder produces 243hp. Acceleration around town and on the highway are modest at best. You'll have to push it harder than it's keen rivals to get up to pace. Fuel economy is also rather disppointing when compared to the BMW X5 and Acura MDX which both use a more modern take on the six-cylinder.

On the road: The XC90 hides its bulky size really well. It may not be as sharp to drive as a BMW X5, but the ride comfort is very smooth. We suggest avoiding the larger alloy wheels which can make things a bit choppy on some road surfaces. The optional all-wheel-drive sends power to the front wheels unless wheel slip is sensed. Although the XC90 has a smooth highway ride and is decently quiet all round. The XC90 can't hide its age and it shows in the engine refinement and steering feedback.

Behind the wheel: The XC90's center console looks button overload, but when you take the time to navigate through you'll see that everything is logically laid out. The front seats are very comfortable and offers plenty of support. There's plenty of space in the second row while the third row should remain for children. With all three rows in place there isn't much space in the boot. Fold down third row and you'll have a decent size boot. Fold down the second row also and you'll have an cargo van sized boot.

Equipment: All XC90's come well equipped. Entry-level model gets leather interior, keyless entry, automatic headlights and Bluetooth. You'll have to pay extra for all-wheel-drive on all trim levels. The top of the range R-design adds unique body-kit, alloy wheels and navigation system. You'll have to pay extra for Xenon Headlamps on all trims.

Buying & Owning: The XC90 undecuts it's rivals on price and discounts are available. Running costs however won't be so great due to the thirsty and underpowered engine. Resale value is a meer average which isn't great compared to the likes of the BMW X5 and Mercedes ML.

Quality & Safety: The materials used in the cabin feel upscale and long lasting. Some of the switchgear feel dated. The XC90 was rated above average in mechanical reliability. Although we still worry about electrical problems in the future, which seems to be an achillies heel for Volvos. When it comes to safety Volvos are nortorious for being overly safe vehicles. Electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes are all standard across the range. Anti-whip lash head restraints are standard as well as front/side curtain airbags. Deadlocks and anti-theft alarm keeps theft at bay.

The XC90 undercuts it's rivals with low price and tons of equipment for the money. This is where the positives end sadly as the XC90 feels aged and behind it's keen rivals the BMW X5 and Mercedes ML.   Some of the switchgear feel old and the design is aging gracefully but is still in need of a major redesign. If you can overlook these few downsides you'll find that the XC90 is an alround great SUV to own and is worth considering over it's much more expensive rivals. 

Devon's Pick: The 3.2 Premier Plus makes the most sense financially. You'll pay extra for all-wheel-drive but you get the extra luxury bits that the standard trim doesn't offer. Which in my books is worth it. The Platnium and R-designs are both major bargain deals compared to the BMW X5 and Mercedes ML. It's a shame that they are all attached to an outdated six-cylinder that feels underpowered. 

Likes: Classy inside out. Legendary Volvo safety. Cheaper than most of its keen rivals.

Dislikes: Starting to show its age inside out. Six-cylinder engine feels underpowered and outdated. In desperate need of a redesign.

Devon M

The best and the worst.

Our favorites and least favorite cars we’ve driven.

Favorites:

Sedan: The BMW 3-series for the longest was one of my favorite sedans but the Jaguar XE is literally out for blood. This sedan is not only as dynamically great as the 3-series it is also so much better than the 3-series at the highest end of the range. We love the turbo-diesel engine you can get with this sedan and we also love the 3-liter supercharged six-cylinder that sits at the top of the range. It’s just the best engine choice of the XE range, if you’re willing to spend the cash that is. We’ve driven several sedans over the years and well the Jaguar XE has to be far my favorite. I just wish that Jaguar improved the infotainment system it is just a complete and utter disaster, also the cabin is quite narrow too.

Wagon: The BMW 3-series touring is a real gem but the Saab 9-5 wagon is what really stole my heart. I remember when I first test drove one in 2006, which was the facelifted version. It also came equipped with the 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder pumping out 260hp. I loved this engine as it had so much torque at low revs and was also the better option compared to the BMW 5-series and Mercedes E-class. I surely wish that Saab was still around as they would be wildly popular now that automakers are shifting to turbocharged four-cylinders.

Convertible: The Mazda Miata is one of those vehicles you have to drive before you die. No seriously! It is one of the best roadsters money can buy. The engine may not have much in terms of horsepower but the Miata is lightweight which means that it doesn’t really need much horsepower to get this thing going. You can toss it around sharp corners and bends with confidence thanks to precise steering and sharp handling. I loved my time in the Miata and if I were looking for this type of vehicle I would’ve bought one in a heartbeat.

Hatchback: The GTI is the best hot hatch money can buy. It offers a thumping turbo engine rated at 210-220hp. It’s inexpensive and yet it feels classy and refined. We know you can buy a Ford Focus ST for similar money, but for some reason the GTI just felt so much more fun to drive than the Focus. Maybe because the GTI can balance it’s horsepower while remaining agile. The Focus ST did remind us of the 9-3 Viggen which had suffered from torque steer. The Focus ST isn’t as bad as the 9-3 in terms of torque steer and the chassis being overwhelmed by the amount of horsepower the engine is producing.



SUV: The best crossover we have ever driven is the Volvo XC90. The first generation of the XC90 was also a particular favorite of mine. I loved the eight-cylinder engine that Volvo offered in it for a short period of time. It was the most efficient eight-cylinder engine at the time. Secondly, the redesigned version that appeared two years ago was and still is the crème de la crème of the SUV segment. It carries the style so well. The driving position is superb and the overall quality of the new XC90 has been dramatically improved to the point it made us put it on our top list. You want something refreshingly not German well this is the best of the best here. The 2-liter turbocharged/supercharged four-cylinder pumping out 315hp is the best engine to go for in the range. The entry T5 is okay and the T8 Hybrid can get quite expensive.

Least favorites:
Sedan: The Chevy Cobalt is probably one of the worst sedans I’ve ever driven. It was cheap in every literal since of the word. The 2.2-liter four-cylinder offered decent flexibility but was bogged down by an ancient four-speed auto gearbox. The interior was just rubbish and the overall driving impressions were just ‘meh’ at best. You could quite literally go get a Toyota Corolla and have a dependable appliance that was much better to look at and easier to live with. The only reason people bought this is because it came with deep discounts, and well that’s should be the only reason you’d consider one. Everyone else please look elsewhere!



Wagon: The Suzuki Forenza Wagon was supposed to be the new vehicles from Suzuki that helped it gain more traction in the U.S. against cars like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. However, this car didn’t gain the traction that Suzuki needed as they ended up discontinuing it. The Forenza Wagon looks like a decent buy on paper as it is cheap, plenty of space and supposedly had low running costs. However, in reality the Forenza was none of these things except for having a spacious boot. The engine was weak and running costs were particularly high for a low output engine. Maybe it was because when you drive it, majority of the time you’d be driving with your foot completely down to keep up with faster paced traffic. Suzuki no longer builds cars in the U.S. and well if you were thinking about this, we strongly suggest looking elsewhere as this one is not a vehicle you’d want to waste money on.

Convertible: The Chevy Cavalier Convertible has to be the worst convertible I had ever driven. The looks and the price alone is what made this a popular option. The Chevy Camaro was better to drive, hell even the VW Cabrio was better to drive. The only redeeming feature the Cavalier Convertible had was it had a roomier backseat. The chassis felt like it was made out of cardboard while the engines were actually gutsy and very durable. We still wonder what the hell happened when Chevy brought the Cobalt along. It would’ve been cool to see a SS version of the Cavalier, we know that it would’ve stepped on the Camaro toes, but still a SS version would’ve been awesome.



Hatchback: The Daewoo Lanos used the same platform as the Suzuki Reno. The Reno was a slightly better car to drive but that wasn’t saying much. I loathed the way the Lanos looked and it felt like a cheap car. The interior was an absolute joke in terms of quality and well the Lanos only came with a three-door version as you’d have to venture to Suzuki to get the five-door version. Daewoo was short lived here in the U.S. before it was bought out by Chevy and eventually became Chevy in Europe. I think that Daewoo could’ve survived as an automaker if they actually took the time to make their interior better and also didn’t use crappy engines. The 1.6 in the Lanos was terrible.

SUV: Saab is a special brand that was way ahead of its time. However, when the 9-7x was first launched I was truly disappointed with Saab. The styling wasn’t what made me disappointed. It was the engine choices, instead of offering the unique turbocharged four-cylinders that Saab was known for. Saab decided to go with the GM derived engines from the Trailblazer and they were god awful engines. Saab could’ve put a 2.8-turbo six-cylinder from the 9-3 at least and pumped it up to 300hp, with a twin-turbo version pumping out at least 400hp for the Aero. I don’t understand why Saab took the lazy route with this crossover. It had such potential that was just wasted away.