2010 Volvo XC90 Review

The 2010 Volvo XC90 brings traditional Volvo memories to a very modern midsized sports utility vehicle. It is extra practical, superbly comfortable and of course, ultimately safe. In fact, it has been a Top Safety Pick of the IIHS for three years in a row now. New features for 2010 include reverse parking assistance technologies and a third row of luxurious seating. With that, it can now seat up to seven people in complete comfort. The second and third row of seating fold down flat to provide increased cargo hauling spaciousness as well. Additionally, there has been a standard child booster safety seat installed in the second-row.

More than adequate power is derived from a 3.2L 235hp 236 lb-ft I6 engine that is available with either front wheel drive or AWD configuration availability. The base engine has a fuel efficiency rating of 15/22 mpg city/highway. Optionally, with the AWD configuration only, the 2010 XC90 can be fitted with a 4.4L 311hp V8 engine. Regardless of the engine that you select, the Volvo original Geartronic 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is included. This incredibly popular tranny allows drivers to customize shifting patterns according to their preferences. And, if properly equipped, this sharp looking luxury SUV can also tow 5000 pounds.

Fully electronic stability control, the Volvo Role Stability Control system, loads of standard airbags and 4-wheel ABS braking with electronic brake force distribution are just a few of the standard safety features that keep Volvo on top of its competition. There's also a very well liked alert system for all blind spot activity. Although the Volvo XC90 is a carryover from last year, this 2010 model is sharper, smoother and more refined than ever before.

The Cadillac SRX, the Lincoln MKX and the Lexus RX 350 are the major competitors that are attempting to stop the 2010 XC90 by Volvo from dominating the segment. Overall vehicular measurements for length, width and height are 189.3 x 74.7 x 70.2 inches respectively. The XC90 rides atop of a 112.6 inch wheelbase and stands above the ground 8.6 inches. Gross vehicular weight tips the scales at 5790 pounds with a curb weight of 4450 pounds on base trim models.

There are five trims to select from concerning the Volvo XC90 for 2010: the 3.2 four-door Front-wheel Drive, the 3.2 four-door R-Design Front-wheel Drive, the 3.2 four-door AWD, the 3.2 four-door R-Design AWD and the V8 four-door AWD. Interior room is more than adequately spacious on all models. Front headroom measures 40 inches. 38 inches of headroom are presented in the rear seating rows. 58 inches of front shoulder room abound as well as 57 inches in the rear. There are 11.1 cubic feet of luggage space available and, with the second and third rows of seating folded down, cargo space measurements increase to 85.1 cubic feet.

The 2010 Volvo XC90 presents some seriously stiff competition for all of its class members. MSRPs range from $37,700 up to $47,500 which falls right in line with the competition. Owning one of these upscale midsized SUVs is a definitive combined experience in practicality, appreciable fuel efficiency, convenient luxury- and the epitome of safety.