Volvo XC90 SUV

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Comments

  • adp3adp3 Member Posts: 446
    I have the 2.5. My wife drives it 90% of the times and she absolutely loves it. It is essentially a commute vehicle and then a soccer mom mobile. It performs those functions excellently. On occasion (one weekend/month) it has to handle snow duty - from the Bay Area up to the Sierra - which it handles excellently. A driver of an Explorer was in my 90 and could not believe how well it handled on the same routes that he takes with his Explorer (but that is not an issue that distinguishes the 2.5 from the T6).

     

    I find the 2.5 has plenty of power, but it is not a race car. I drove the 6 and the 2.5 at a Volvo/Skip Barber event and you could definitely feel more power when driving the 6. So be it. Do I care? No.

     

    Also, I have no plans to tow, so I have no desire to buy a vehicle that has towing capability. Why do I want to pay for all that towing capability, just so someday I might use it, when I KNOW I am not gonna use. I have never towed, I am never gonna tow, I don't want to tow, don't ASK me to tow. :-)

     

    The 2.5 is great. When I drive it I am driving it on the highest average mph freeway in an American metropolitan area, and I am screaming down the left lane, so I wouldn't worry too much about the vehicle not having enough power.

     

    What I have NOT done yet is fully-load the vehicle and take it on a cross country trip up extremely steep grades at 100 degrees f. I did that with my Dodge Grand Caravan and it didn't like it very much, so I do wonder how the 90 would do in that rather extreme environment, but I'd certainly be willing to test it.

     

    Of course, in my family, I am the heaviest piece of cargo, at 200 pounds, and the weights drop off ALOT from there (120 and then two at 70 or so). YMMV if your family of four weighs in at 800 pounds. At some point, you are gonna NEED the V8.
  • 1sttimevolvo11sttimevolvo1 Member Posts: 189
    What I have NOT done yet is fully-load the vehicle and take it on a cross country trip up extremely steep grades at 100 degrees f. I did that with my Dodge Grand Caravan and it didn't like it very much, so I do wonder how the 90 would do in that rather extreme environment, but I'd certainly be willing to test it.

     

    We've taken ours on two trips to Florida thus far. Both were in the peak of summer and about 600 miles one way. The only stops were for gas and the occasional pee-break.

     

    The vehicle was fully loaded. Four adults, luggage for all four for a week long trip, two sets of golf clubs, one large cooler and one small.

     

    Temperature peaked at about 98 in north Florida / south Alabama.

    We have the 2.5T and we were able to pass on grades effortlessly.

     

    I would heartily recommend the 2.5T as well.
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    Al,

    We should probably also mention the Overseas delivery. If someone can wait for 4-5 month and like to travel in Europe, it is the way to buy a Volvo.

    I can not wait till I need another vehicle. I might go to get S40/V50 for my older daughter in 2006 or to replace my S80 in 2008, or both.
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    And we had this kind of test during our OSD trip.

    We went on a 2600 miles journey across 7 European countries - 4 adults and a luggage for the three week trip.

    A lot of hills, a lot of rain, a lot of autobahn driving @100 mph or more.

     

    It was more than enough to fall in love with the XC90 2.5T.

     

    The highway driving is a unique experience in Europe. There are plenty of places, especially in Germany and Italy, with no speed limit, and all the cars are going about 200 kph (125 mph). So, you just keep up... And XC90 has no problems doing this. It is a true European road cruiser.

    Remember, that most of the cars going 125 mph had engines probably half of the size we have. 2L engine is considered rather large in Europe.
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    Can not resist to point out the wonders of the OSD.

     

    The base OSD price for the V8 is 41,765.

     

    And the car with the options I have will be 45,035. It is still almost 5 grand more than my 2.5T, but I have noticed that V8 is priced very aggressively compare to T6.

     

    The difference in the base price (consider 2100 for the versatility package, which is standard on V8) will be just 1,930.
  • adp3adp3 Member Posts: 446
    yes, I wish it was time for me to buy another Volvo. (in a way) I plan to do OSD again, but this time I AM GONNA FIND A SWEDISH LINGERIE SHOW, DANG IT
  • anotherwagonanotherwagon Member Posts: 301
    Hi - what are your thoughts on the Subaru Tribeca (new 2006) as a competitor for the xc90? Pricing loaded is guessed at around 40k-

     

    Volvomax? Anyone? Thanks,
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    I personally will never consider a Subaru as a competitor to a Volvo. Subaru makes great cars, but it's not an upscale European brand. There is a certain "social status" quality in the Volvo that does not exists in the Subaru, regardless the price.

     

    That is on the reasons for the rather small S40 to be in the price range of much larger family sedans from Japan.
  • anotherwagonanotherwagon Member Posts: 301
    I understand that mentality but from a feature-benefit standpoint they will be extremely similiar - from the info I've seen Subaru is hoping to change that perception - seems like this is intended to compete w/XC90, MDX, and the like...
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    From the limited info available I could not tell, whether they will be compatible feature wise. But currently, the Volvo's AWD/DSTC/RPS combination is superior to anything else. I do not think it will change. The current Subaru is less sophisticated.
  • anotherwagonanotherwagon Member Posts: 301
    You mentioned the OSD program and I remember a link on one of the boards. Not sure if it was zapped or if I just couldn't find it again.

     

    Is it really a cost savings - even w/Z plan pricing? Also, if the info was a no no can you send me the link directly? Will give you an email if needed...

     

    Thanks -
  • anotherwagonanotherwagon Member Posts: 301
    Good point....had my own "windshield wipers flying off the windshield in freezing rain on the interstate" episode that makes me have fond thoughts of that 850 wagon! :)

    It was running but it sure was cold driving w/my head out the window and my hand holding the stupid blade so it wouldn't fly off until I got to the next exit.
  • anotherwagonanotherwagon Member Posts: 301
    Theirs is AWD/VDC/VTD - ...
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    I decided to remove my rant - it's been three decades since my poor Volvo experience (but only two decades since the breakdown in the freezing rain/snow in a friend's).

     

    long memories...

     

    Steve, Host
  • anotherwagonanotherwagon Member Posts: 301
    But rant aside - perception is a good point. It all about what is perceived..not necessarily what is...
  • lovethexclovethexc Member Posts: 5
    OK. I received a quote for 39,245 so the actual difference in price between a 2.5 and T6 for us is only a bit over a grand. Since money isn't really the issue with the purchase, is there a concensus that the 2.5 would be a smoother ride for soccer mom duty than the T6? Each are pretty much equally reliable? I'm just gonna have to make the journey to the Volvo dealer (I wish it were closer!)and see for myself aren't I? :) Thanks again everyone....you've been very helpful in sorting this out! And adp3, good luck with finding that lingerie show! ;)
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    http://www.volvocars.us/FinancialServices/Overseas/

     

    And it is better than Z plan.

     

    The OSD pricing for the "long time runners" is on a par with the best discounts you can get domestically, and you can not beat the OSD price for the new vehicles, like XC90 V8.

     

    My e-mail is published, and I am the resident cheerleader for the OSD here, on Edmunds.
  • volvomaxvolvomax Member Posts: 5,238
    Your just going to have to drive both and make up your own mind.

    For some the more powerful T6 w/ the easier steering will do the trick.

    For others the more fuel efficent 2.5T w/ the stiffer more European steering is what they want.

    Our sales mix is almost 50/50 between the 2 cars and we are one of the largest XC90 retailers in the country.
  • volvomaxvolvomax Member Posts: 5,238
    Lev is correct,

    AZX plans aren't available on OSD cars.

    Also, most dealers probably won't honor them on the V8 at all to satrt with.

     

    Volvo is almost out of V8's for OSD so hurry if you want one.
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    I think there is a consensus that 5 speed transmission is smoother than the 4 speed, and 2.5T is more frugal, when it comes to the gas consumption.

     

    It all boils down to the fact, that there is NOTHING for the soccer mom in T6 that will justify the extra grand up-front and extra couple of hundred bucks for the gas every year.
  • anotherwagonanotherwagon Member Posts: 301
    Looking at the 2.5 as well, another soccer/boyscout mom....
  • jtlajtla Member Posts: 388
    As you said in the first posting, only you can make the final decision. Even there seems to be a consensus that the 2.5T is more suitable for you, you still need to test drive the 2.5T to see for yourself.

     

    As to the price, if your dealer can do $40,300 for T6, they should be able to do better than $39,245 for 2.5T. Check the "Price Paid and Buying Experience" on this board.
  • adp3adp3 Member Posts: 446
    Max raised a good point, which I had forgotten, and that is that speed sensitive steering was only available on the T6. I was able to get it on my 2.5T since I bought via OSD. I preferred the SSSteering over the normal steering. Would I have bought the 2.5T without the steering upgrade? Probably, and I would have forgotten that there was a difference, I'm sure.

     

    Am not sure if current year models give you the option of the steering upgrade on the 2.5T.

     

    Other than this, in my opinion the only reason to buy the 6 over the 2.5 is if your family's gross curb weight is up around 1,000 pounds or you plan to tow. Of course, if you live in a flatter area than I do, then I'd stick with the 2.5T unless your family weighed in at over 1500 pounds.

     

    YMMV
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    Yep, the 2005 buyers of XC90 2.5T can not get speed sensitive steering neither here nor overseas.

    Too bad, it's a nice feature. My wife can easily feel the difference in the steering on her XC90 and my S80.

     

    And since we do have this feature on our 2.5T I have totally forgotten about it too.
  • jtlajtla Member Posts: 388
    Interesting. Just wanted to add that, although the 2005 2.5T's power-assist steering is not speed-sensitive, it is still very easy to steer. I guess if you don't have it, you never know the difference and it is not an issue.
  • aegaeg Member Posts: 23
    I just received a offer for a 2.5T for $39,500.

    this included climate,premium,metallic color and rear assist as well as the versatility incentive offered by Volvo. This seemed close to cost. What information do you have that suggests that a dealer could do better than the $39,245 offer. Lovethexc. what options were included in the price. Appreciate your feedback. Are the manufacturer incentives other than versatility that I am unaware of.I debated more between the 8cyl OSD and 2.5T. Did not like the feel of the T6 transmission. Thought of going OSD in february to buy same car for 38,200 but price differential did not seem to be worth spending the time and money to spend a few days in Sweden when did not plan on traveling around Europe at this time.
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    I want to tell you that Sweden is worth of a lot of money. It is beautiful, and Stockholm is one of the best jewels of the European capitals.
  • habitat1habitat1 Member Posts: 4,282
    Sorry, Lev, but I have to point out the humor of seeing you giving advice to prospective "soccer mom" purchasers of the XC90. Didn't you rip me apart a couple of months ago when I suggested that was indeed a significant market segment for and orientation of the XC90?

     

    It is also humorous that I was scheduled to test drive the new XC90 V8 that just arrived at my local dealership today, as well as an LR3 HSE yesterday. The Land Rover dealer suggested waiting until this afternoon, because the DC area is supposed to get snow and he wants to show me what the LR3 can do in snow. The Volvo dealer called me yesterday to ask me if I could come in early, before the snow arrives, because they may close for the day!
  • lovethexclovethexc Member Posts: 5
    In regards to our price, we are purchasing through an overseas military program so there is no negotiation on the prices but, it was AWD, Versatility, Premium, and rear assist.

     

    Now I think that we may go with the T6, after someone brought up the speed sensitive steering... we take a lot of longer trips and if that SSS is what made the car such a joy to drive on the autobahn then I know I've got to have it! :D
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    Welcome back, Edward, and as usual, you totally off a ball park. The household of a "soccer mom" that buys the XC90 probably has an income of high 6 figures. Exactly the demographic market for the Volvo that I was talking about.

     

    And when it comes to the Volvo dealer, you conveniently omitted that while Land Rover sells only the percievably "all-terrain" vehicles, Volvo sells sedans too. Nobody, but you (with M5) suggested to use the sedans for the off-road trips.

     

    Lastly, when you quote me, please do not change the meaning of my points. I have to remind you again, that I have previously responded to your statement that the XC90 has the off-road capabilities of the soccer mom minivan. I still believe that it is incorrect, however, I have never said that the family with many kids should not use the XC90 as a family vehicle, if they can afford it. Our discussion was strictly about the off-road capabilities, but not the demographics.

     

    P.S. On my last ski trip, when on our way back we went through over 100 miles of the one of the biggest snow storms in Sierra Nevada history, I have beat my friend in his Lexus LX470 by couple of hours, My XC90 was holding the road like there was no snow underneath, while my friend has complained after the trip that he was" going all over the road" and had to go really-really slow. Go figure. As I said before - it is not what you drive, it is how you drive. I have experience driving through the snow, he has not.
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    Actually, with the steering - it is other way around. You will feel the difference only at the low speeds. It "stiffens" as the speed goes up to provide better driving feel.

     

    So, at the highway speeds both types of the steering should feel the same.
  • habitat1habitat1 Member Posts: 4,282
    Well, as luck would have it, I didn't get to test drive either the XC90 V8 or LR3 HSE today. But I did get a call from the manager of the Volvo dealership who then put me on the phone with "Michael" , Vovlo's regional rep/technical expert.

     

    The XC90 V8 does sound like it has an impressive array of new technology in the engine, transmssion and AWD systems. It would be hard to imagine buying the XC90 without the V8, unless budget constraints dictated.

     

    Unfortunately, without the benefit yet of a test drive, we are leaning to a 2005 MDX. The interior size advantage of the Acura is significant. It is nearly 3 inches wider in the second row. Based upon my wife's test, third row ingress and egress was easier in the MDX. The MDX also offers a few features unavailable in the Volvo - Bluetooth phone (required in DC), On-Star, XM radio etc. And the Acura voice activated navigation system is light years ahead of the Volvo. The Volvo scores a "technical" win in the are of safety based upon it's more sophisticated stability control system, but the 2005 MDX is still a vast, vast improvement over our current Trooper. The other strong thing going for the Acura over the Volvo (and LR3) in my mind is the peace of mind of long term reliability and reasonable maintenance and repair bills.

     

    Again, no test drives yet, so things could change.

     

    P.S. The LR3 remains in the running, mostly because it is fresh and different, and has a spectacular third row. And it would satisfy any future need we might have for off roading or boat towing. But given that reliability is an issue for us on the Volvo, it certainly needs to be carefully considered relative to the Land Rover.
  • wmquanwmquan Member Posts: 1,817
    The Volvo scores a "technical" win in the are of safety based upon it's more sophisticated stability control system ...

     

    There's a lot more to the Volvo's safety advantage over the MDX than the RSC. Please note that the MDX is a safe vehicle and is ahead of a number of other SUV's. But one reason people buy Volvo's is that they just don't settle for a safe vehicle, they want one of the safest vehicles that they can buy. The XC90 simply has more safety features that go beyond superficial and limited crash test scores.

     

    Granted that some folks don't want the kitchen sink in safety. But it's just another buying factor, such as how you don't really need some of the extras of the V8 but you want it anyway. You may not want the maximum safety advantage of the Volvo. It comes down to how you weigh that factor over other factors like reliability.
  • gambiamangambiaman Member Posts: 131
    You mentioned in a previous post that V8's would run about 53-55. Looking at OSD prices it appears to me that one could get a very nicely equipped V8 in the mid 40's using OSD. I want one with AWD premium & versatility packages, Xenon lights, backup alarm and wood steering wheel and power retractable rear view mirrors if they don't add too much. It looks like from a quick look at OSD prices that this combination would be mid 40's. Looking later this year which would 05 or maybe an 06. Am I wrong. I was looking at a 2.5 but if a V8 got reasonably good MPG and no turbo it might be wise to look into.
  • jtlajtla Member Posts: 388
    I bought one with the exact packages 2 months ago for $38,690, which I posted details in the "Price Paid and Buying Experience" forum in Edmunds. At that time, the quote I received for T6 was not as good as what lovethexc has now. So, judging from the price difference between T6 and 2.5T, I think if her dealer can offer $40,300 for T6, they should be able to do better than $39,245 for 2.5T.
  • habitat1habitat1 Member Posts: 4,282
    I agree - OSD prices on the V8 are particularly atractive, since the OSD discount is applied to more "standard" features that are included in the V8 base price. If you look at the T6, the base OSD price, plus versitility, is only $1,930 less than the V8 which includes versitility.

     

    A nicely equiped V8, with metallic paint, climate pachage and xenon lights is only $43,540 under the OSD program. If you insist, you can add the V8 touring package for another $1,795 which adds the premium sound, 18" wheels and a few cosmetic items. But the upgraded sound can be purchased individually for $775. I do not think the $2,120 navigation system is worth it (considering I only paid $2,000 for the Acura TL system with it's superior graphics, 8" screen and voice activation), nor do I think a $2,000 dual screen DVD system is worth it (although I would consider paying a net price of $1,350 for the MDX system whcih is visible from all 5 rear seats.

     

    In my opinion, the V8 at a $2,000 premium over the T6 is exactly where I thought the engine upgrade should be priced. Given that the V8 provides speed sensitive steerign standard and a more sophisticated AWD system than the 2.5 or T6, I think the $2,000 premium over the T6 is a no-brainer. For all those that are ready to pay $38-$41k 2.5's or T6's, I suggest you double check your piggy bank for $43,560 for the V8. And, as much as Lev and I spar over the use of the XC90 on logging roads, I am in complete agreement that the Volvo OSD program is a very attractive way to go.
  • dogbytedogbyte Member Posts: 8
    Could you kindly explain the term "OSD"? I am currently leasing of 2 Volvos. I get the impression after shopping around that sales people withhold alot of info. I would consider waiting to get V-8 at the price you mention but doubt that a vehicle so equipped could be found or offered. Is this "OSD" available on a lease as well?
  • sergserg Member Posts: 1
    Just ordered a 05 Black/Oak Arena XC90 and was sure that was the color combo we wanted until I saw a 05 Titanium Gray the other day... Now, I'm wondering if the Titanium Gray/Oak Arena combo wouldn't do the trick for us...

     

    Anyone out there with that combination? What are you thoughts?

     

    Thanks!
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    Overseas Delivery program.

    You order your car here, but receive it in Europe, use it there for up to 6 month, and then, get it back from the dealer of your choice here in America, when your are back from your vacation or business trip.

     

    Just search this board for the OSD and you will find tons of postings. I've done it twice and am planning for two more within the next 3-4 years.

     

    All the info you need, including the price and all the incentives is here

     

    http://www.volvocars.us/FinancialServices/Overseas/
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    Also, be sure to take delivery within 6 months of signing the contract or you'll be hit with the Swedish 25% VAT!

     

    tidester, host
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    Thanks for the little concession. And I still can not get why do we even argue - the XC90 was not design as an "all-terrain" vehicle, but it is well suited to handle much wider variety of the off-road conditions than the regular sedan.

     

    The true "all-terrain" vehicle market is very narrow and is well served by such vehicles like Jeep, Land Rover and some Toyotas. So, why even bother. The manufacturers, who've got that succeed - Volvo, BMW, Acura/Honda, Lexus RX, MB. The ones that do not - struggle - Porsche, VW (despite the fact that they can climb the Everest) - just compare the sales figures...

     

    Take a look to the Lexus - you can not even compare the sales figures for the RX versus GX and LX, and I do not think that the only price matters - it's the entire package of a good on-road/off-road package.

     

    And XC90 is one of the best (the Best IMHO) in that crowd.
  • pcbflpcbfl Member Posts: 7
    habitat1,

     

    Brandwise, Acura and Lexus are diluted due to mass-selling (except top lines of Lexus).

     

    Ever considered the "Status" thing? You and your wife will be perceived differently in Volvo(Euro) than MDX. You'll be making a respectable statement that you value protection of your family members above all, "long term reliability" is not on the list of many well-offs.
  • soxfansoxfan Member Posts: 25
    drove the v8 this weekend. very impressed. my wife and i have 2 on order (mid-to-late february delivery). power is substantially better than the t6 we drove a couple months ago, and the new transmission is noticeably smoother and more responsive. sales manager was taking it home ahead of the 30" blizzard we got this weekend in the boston area (reason enough to own a truck), and i'll be following up to see if he took it out during the storm. handling was pretty sharp for a car that big and heavy, and it felt extremely stable doing 80+ through the curves on route 128 west of boston. we're upgrading from a highlander and a cross country, and the xc90 is a substantial improvement from the handling of the highlander, but not quite the "toboggan" that the xc70 handles like. more space more than compensates. i've driven the lr3, which is very nice, but doesn't feel as stable when driven aggressively. mdx was also very nice, but a rear-facing britax child seat forces the driver or passenger seat well up toward the console. xc90 has a lot more room for the driver in that case. v8 power makes this competitive with the big touareg and x5 engines, but third row and more cargo space makes a big difference with 2 kids and a dog. reports of electrical problems with the touareg put me off to that a while ago, even though it drives very nicely. x5 has gotta be $10-$20k more than the xc90 v8, similarly equipped, with less space. we love the awd in cross country (put on snow tires and it's hard to get into too much trouble), so expect the xc90 v8 with the improved system should be as good or better (again, hope to have blizzard feedback on this soon). boron roll cage and great crash test ratings put me over the top.
  • volvomaxvolvomax Member Posts: 5,238
    If you want a V8 on OSD this year hurry.

    Volvo will be closing the order book soon on this car for OSD.

    Car can be leased, although some lenders like US Bank won't touch them.

    You must take delivery by the end of May at the latest.
  • adp3adp3 Member Posts: 446
    hab: what the heck do you care how easy it is to get into the third row? YOU are not ever going to get into the third row. Nor is your wife. The third row is for your least-honored guests. In other words, your children. And they can climb into the third-row in the Volvo just fine.

     

    If that is the only reason you are buying the MDX over the XC90, then your analysis is flawed. If, however, you really do want a three-row vehicle, then you are comparing the wrong vehicles. You really need to be in Suburban territory.

     

    just my two cents, which is worth way more than the paper it's printed on
  • pjtpjt Member Posts: 36
    soxfan:

    Greetings from a fellow soxfan! Would you care to share "prices paid and buying experience" comments re: your recent purchase(s)? I was also curious whether inventories of the V8 were tight. Limited supply + high demand = MSRP! How willing are the dealers to discount the V8? I live south of Boston. I have owned 2 Volvos (total 400,000 miles driven in them), and have been considering the XC90. Your endorsement is compelling. Thanks for any information. pjt
  • soxfansoxfan Member Posts: 25
    pjt - hope you're a pats fan too! ;) lee volvo on route 9 has a demo if you want to go drive it - give them a call. i haven't negotiated on price yet, but i'm fully expecting to pay pretty close to msrp, since the cars are loaded and there won't be that many available at first in the exact colors and options we want. hoping i can get a slight discount since we've been (and will be) good customers for them. also have to imagine that being first on the wait list for two cars has spurred some other people to sign up. hearing volvo's super bowl ad will focus on the v8, so if the list isn't full right now, it probably will be soon (especially around boston!) i will definitely post details once i get to that point. osd not an option for me, as good a deal as it might be. again, i think the car is a deal relative to the bmw and touareg, considering what you get on the performance & capacity side, and there is definitely a volvo safety premium to everything else on the market - you pick a number. yes, a suburban is more of a tank, but it drives like an aircraft carrier and won't fit in my garage. let me know if you have other specific questions. go pats!
  • 1sttimevolvo11sttimevolvo1 Member Posts: 189
    It is also humorous that I was scheduled to test drive the new XC90 V8 that just arrived at my local dealership today, as well as an LR3 HSE yesterday. The Land Rover dealer suggested waiting until this afternoon, because the DC area is supposed to get snow and he wants to show me what the LR3 can do in snow. The Volvo dealer called me yesterday to ask me if I could come in early, before the snow arrives, because they may close for the day!

     

    I guess it's all relative, and Lev is correct in that Volvo would be inclined to close early considering sales of a Volvo SUV is but a fraction of total sales of Volvo cars, whereas Landrover sells only SUVs. I guess one could have an inaccurate perception that Volvo wasn't keen on letting their SUVs out in the snow.

     

    Interesting in that we made our decision to choose Volvo over Acura over a similar type perception, albeit in the end a correct one.

    During the test drive we were only allowed to take the MDX through subdivisions adjacent to the dealership (20 mph max. speed.......whoopie). We were then allowed onto the nearby interstates for the trip back to the dealership (about 1.5 mile trip.....whoopie). The salesrep wasn't keen on us testing the maneuverability of the MDX, thus we didn't have a good idea of how well it really handled.

     

    The Volvo salesrep was polar opposite. We started on the interstate (wife driving). He had her accelerate the vehicle from 50 mph to 90 as qucikly as she could. We tested the passing capabilities on the Interstate for about 2 or more miles. We then got of the interstate and took a few winding, pastoral roads in a wooded area. He instructed her to take curves at no less than 40 mph (recommended speed 20) to show her how the RSC and DTSC worked. He also instructed her to slam the brakes on from a 50 mph speed in order to demonstrate the short stops the XC90 is able to attain. He basically was all but daring us to drive as harshly as we could (on the back roads away from traffic).

     

    We came away thoroughly impressed with the XC90.

    We weren't impressed because we WANTED to drive it like lunatics, rather, we were impressed that if it could hold the road in those scenarios, it should be more than manageable in an emergency scenario where one may have to veer suddenly from trouble.

     

    We never would've known if the MDX was as nimble unless we bought it and tried it after the fact.
  • adp3adp3 Member Posts: 446
    the reason the Boston-area Volvo folks closed early is because all the XC90s had those dang Michelins on them, and noboby but a fool is gonna drive in the snow with that tire!!

     

    only-half-kidding

     

    soxfan: why won't OSD work for you? Do you need the car too soon? Delivery is at least 4 weeks from drop off, but if you signed up today and went over there ASAP you'd have the car pretty quick. It's a short flight from Boston - hell, you can go fore the weekend. I made the trip from San Francisco. Bear of a flight even though we went over the top.

     

    Go Pats! (displaced New Englander here - from Marblehead)
  • lev_berkovichlev_berkovich Member Posts: 858
    I am one of those fools.

     

    And actually, I have found a highway driving very good. The DSTC was managing the ever-changing traction conditions superbly, and at 30-40 MPH you have enough momentum not to worry about the tire grip. You go fast enough to break through the occasional piles, and you do not drive too fast to have any problems to stop, if you brake a bit in advance.
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