Did you recently rush to buy a new vehicle before tariff-related price hikes? A reporter is looking to speak with shoppers who felt pressure to act quickly due to expected cost increases; please reach out to PR@Edmunds.com for more details by 4/24.
I have no experence with the other "SUVs", but I witnessed the aftermath of a Lexus LX300 rollover in LA last January. The roof structure was completly flattened over the seats (not a pretty sight). The Volvo Cars website has a video of a XC90 rollover test and it is impressive!
Has anybody listened to the difference between the premium sound system with Dolby Pro-logic II with 12 speakers and the standard sound system with 8 speakers that comes with the T6?
Also, it would be great if we can get real confirmation as to gas mileage ratings. To spend $45000 non refundable dollars for a vehicle that may get 11+mpg, on premium no less, is a little daunting.
The roof of the RX300 is already notorious for being somewhat flimsy and the sunroof option makes matters even worse. I saw an LS400 rollover many years ago wherein the driver had been partially ejected through the sunroof before the second roll.
Not a pretty sight and a good argument for not buying that useless sunroof option that only adds to the dealer's bottom line.
I placed an order for a 2.5T AWD at my local dealer (Westchester NY) yesterday. He told me that the delivery will be some time in April. He said Volvo is making more T-6 models than 2.5, actually he said the ratio is 4:1. He also said that there will be only 6,000 (XC90’s) made in 03 (seems pretty low to me). Also the 2.5T FWD model is not going into production until 04. Has anyone heard similar statements from other dealers?
Having no prior experience with leather seating, I was wondering if anyone could give me the pros and cons of taupe or graphite colored leather seates? Someone ahead of me in the Dec allocation list dropped out and the car meets my choices, except I was originally thinking of taupe, and it is graphite. The salespeople are telling me the taupe demos are already getting pretty dirty looking.
the salespeople will tell you anything to get you to take the car as is. nevertheless, I'd take it. I've had both leather options and found that in this rare case, the salespeople aren't lying :-).
I think graphite interior is richer looking and results in a cabin more monochromatic (graphite, wood, and silver) as oppposed to four colors in the taupe (taupe, wood, silver, black). My wife doesn't like the look of the silver door handles and shift knob with the taupe.
Of course, the downsides of graphite are the heat and the smaller interior perception.
I noticed the taupe in the demo had ink spots on it.
Also, it's not really taupe - I would call it bone, and in person seems too light to go with a black or dark car. I've ordered red with graphite interior.
I would agree that Taupe would show blemishes more quickly and that Graphite would not. However, to me, Graphite is not as inviting as Taupe -- it seems too businesslike, not accommodating. But that's a personal preference. If you do not mind Graphite, go for it.
I had the taupe interior in my V70 wagon and it wasn't bad. I had two toddlers at the time and it held up surprisingly well. Just had to wipe it down from time to time which you would do anyway. The graphite was not a consideration since I live in sweltering So. Fla.
The more important thing is to keep the leather conditioned (esp. if you are purchasing the car). I found that Volvo's leather tended to crack early on. Similar complaints from friends who own Volvos....
Finally got tired of all the decision making, XC90 or Touareg or 4Runner... so I bought a used X5 that I test drove last month. Right after I left the dealer on got on HWY 101, I saw a Crystal Green XC90 in the northbound lane :-). Weird. Hey, I can always trade for an XC90 later after they've proved their reliability and you don't have to wait to get one. I have to admit though, I love the X5 acceleration and handling. Bought the 3.0 manual in blue w/ 18" wheels and 21k miles. I'll have to use my son's truck for "real" off-roading (at least while he still lives at home).
I saw a Crystal Green XC90 at the dealer and I swore it looked silver. I had to really try hard to see the green in it. The salespeople also noted it as well. The pictures in all the brochures definitely look light green. Has anybody else experienced this? Is it possible the paint mixture was off?
no kidding, I saw this color first at the dealer and swore it was silver. I told the sales guy he had to be wrong about the color because the pictures I'd seen looked light green. I saw it later at night under the lights and could barely see the green on one part of the car in back. But the car I saw on the freeway yesterday definitely looked like the green in the pictures.
Exactly the reason my wife wouldn't let me buy it. That's funny, I thought it was just her that thought that. I chose the red instead. I just hope thats not too pink, since no pictures of the red seem to exist.
Our dealership has the T6 with Atlantis wheels in Crystal Green. I've gone to see it in several different degrees of sun and clouds to know what it will look like in all types of weather. It's a fairly unique color. Looking toward the car with the sun beyond the car makes the color appear more silver (not a brilliant silver, but a more brushed silver). Looking at the car with the sun behind your back brings out the light greenish hue. Also, in the shade and in a garage the car will appear to have the greenish hue. I think it's a great alternative to the traditional silver, black and white SUV's that dominate the landscape. It's Volvo's answer to the graphite grey, meridian grey and seal grey cars that other manufacturers have out there.
As for the color looking feminine, I didn't think it did. However, I think car platform SUV's, with the exception of the X5 and Cayenne, are geared toward and driven by many more women than men. That won't matter for me, since I won't be driving it unless my wife is in the car anyway.
For what it's worth, I agree with posts regarding the loose steering and imperfect engine choices. However, the T6 did seem to provide a less revving ride than the 2.5 and at highway speeds the T6 seemed more capable of being able to speed up if necessary. Nevertheless, I can see why the 2.5 will be a popular engine choice for the car. It behaves and performs quite like the 3.0 liter 220 HP V6 in my wife's RX300 that we'll be replacing and isn't that much of a step down from the T6 that buyers shouldn't consider it.
I am about to order the T6 and was leaning to the Nautic Blue with Taupe interior. Has anyone seen the XC90 in Blue? The color looks great in the Brochure but how is it live?
For nautic blue, go look at an S60 w/ nautic and taupe. For the wheel issues, I think the 16" wheels are plain ugly, 17 looks more aggressive, more SUV like. Shouldn't be any difference in handling, slight difference in replacement cost. Same w/ the 17 or 18" wheels. Its mostly looks. We have put 20" wheels on one of our XC90s. Looks awesome!
We actually placed our order for a Nautic blue. It wasn't initially one of my considerations until I saw it. My wife initially preferred it, and the more I looked at it, the more it grew on me. It seems most people are getting silver and it would be nice to have something different than the majority. For interior, I will be going with the graphite. One of the preallocated configurations came that way, so I will be lucky enough to get one in Dec. If you want to see the color, call a couple of the dealers around you. I am sure one of them will have it. Looking at a different car with the same color helps, but its best to see the actual vehicle in the actual color to observe how the trim and shape complements the color.
The T6 I am getting will have the 17" tires. I would like the 18". What are the odds they would credit me the 17" toward the price of the 18"? Since they sell the 17" as an upgrade to the 2.5T 16", I thought it might be worth trying. Any thoughts?
Also, I know the vehicles are in such demand that negotiation is not possible. However, I was wondering if I may have some luck in negotiating better prices on some of the optional accessories. Any one with experience with this?
I ordered a Crystal Green 2.5T last May and was very dissappointed with it - so pale. Since my order arrived with the extra seats, which I had not ordered, I took the opportunity to re-order in the Red. A demo in red arrived a few days later at my dealer and it is GORGEOUS!
Those big wheels may look "cool", but with a smaller, stiffer sidewall, the ride will be harsher. Especially on a relatively heavy vehicle like the XC90.
I drove that car, didn't really notice any ride difference between that and the 18" wheels. Maybe a little more road feel, but thats all. On the wheel issue, you probably wouldn't get much credit on your originals, depends on the dealer.
Anyone accept delivery yet? I'd heard rumors of mid/late November deliveries, and wanted to see if anyone out there is driving around their own XC90 yet???
From memory: The first was for T6, no options second/third were 2.5T with premium + versatility + bigger wheels (?17) There was another T6 but no info on that one.
I went to my local Volvo dealer today (Boston Volvo Village) to talk about buying a new XC90 2.5T. I was told that it was selling only for MSRP, which I expected, and that delivery would be sometime in March if I placed the order today. Naturally, they wanted a non-refundable deposit ($2,000). I am planning to trade in a vehicle as part of the deal. Because the delivery date is so far out, they refused to give me any kind of trade-in value, even though the Purchase Contract gives them the express right to reappraise the trade-in upon delivery. Not happy that they refused to negotiate this point, I left without making a deal. This is the first time I've ever had to order a vehicle (I usually buy from stock) so I'm unaware if this is standard practice or not. Have any of my fellow posters had the same experience? Am looking for any advice. Many thanks!
The reason that they don't want to give you numbers on your trade is that you aren't trading now, but months from now. The used car market is in the tank, and doesn't show any signs of getting better. Its like asking for a stock price now, but your buying in March. Price could be completely different. I know, you understand that they could reappraise the car, but it has been my experience that customers remember the higher number and don't always understand when your car takes a dive in value. All you could get now is a guess,and it could be way off.
I'm surprised that they were asking for a $2000 non-refundable deposit. I paid a $1000 deposit, and I made sure that it would be refundable in full if I changed my mind.
I didn't ask about a trade-in. I've never been given a reasonable offer for a trade-in. I've found that you can usually get at least 20% or more than the best trade-in offer by selling the car yourself without having to do much prep to sell it. One exception I know of was a friend that took advantage of a local dealership that was offering $4000 for anything with a valid VIN number. He unloaded a 17 year old pick-up.
The reason your dealer asked for a $2,000 (non-refundable) deposit is because of many people that are going around putting $500 - $1,000 deposit hoping to get the first available delivery, and then get their deposits back from other dealers. My dealer (New York) asked for a $2,000 as well, he also said that some Volvo dealers won’t be able to fulfill all of their XC orders for 2003 because they’re taking too many orders. Look at it this way if you’re going to purchase this car and committed to spend the $$$, what’s the big deal. I understand that a lot can happen until March (work related) and it would be nice to get the deposit back
Its one way to separate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak. However, with all the interest in the car I don't think losing a few deposits is going to cause any dealer grief. Our deposits are refundable, we want to sell you a car, not just keep your money. The only time I will stipulate a non-refundable deposit is if the customer orders an unusual car that I could be stuck with if they back out of the deal. Something like a lime green stickshift wagon!
Drive 45 minutes north of Boston, to the Volvo dealership in Nashua New Hampshire. The salesperson there mentioned yesterday, that they were taking $500 refundable deposits there for the XC90. Case closed 8-)
Well, it was pretty much what other's have shared so I'm not going to elaborate on the whole experience. I'll just mention a couple of things that I think are important.
1. T6 Steering: I agree, it's a bit overboosted. If you're someone who suffers from hayfever allergies, you may want to seriously think about this. It seems like an unexpected sneeze could get you to pull the XC90 into the other lane or the curb. It does take away a bit of the sportiness. But if you're one who likes light steering, this will suit you just fine.
2. T6 acceleration: I drive a 2001 Nissan Pathfinder with the 240-hp 3.5L V6. The PF lunges when you press the accelarator. Initially, the T6 seems like it's still thinking about whether it wants to accelarate or not. But when it gets going, it's gone. The reluctance or lag would explain the 0-60 time of 8.8 secs (per MotorWeek). The lag is not a deal breaker for me. As long as I'm aware that this is the character of the engine, I'm OK with it.
3. XC90 Stability: I had the vehicle zigzagging on an empty street and it's very stable. I did not notice the body roll or lean that I experience in the Pathfinder. And the Pathfinder is actually not too bad with body rolls, compared to a previous-gen 4Runner. This is confidence-inspiring.
4. 4-speed Transmission: Very smooth, it works well with the T6.
5. 7-seating: I have no need for 7-seats so I will ditch this option. IMO, it's pretty useless, there is no legroom and footroom. Even if the 2nd row seats are moved forward, there's just not enough room. However, I must admit that getting into the 3rd row is pretty easy.
6. Dolby Pro Logic II: I should have brought a CD, the radio did not sound as good as I expected. I'll bring a CD the next time and reserve judgment then.
7. Miscellaneous: I LOVE the 18" ATLANTIS wheels. Anyone getting a T6 should opt for the Premium Package just for the wheels alone. The sidesteps are too narrow but they really look good. The folding side mirrors are really cool, I like that feature.
The dealership did not have a 2.5T to testdrive, so I'll have to wait for that. But, right now, the T6 is my family's choice.
Glad to hear you finally had a chance to test drive the XC90. Thanks for the review. I agree with most of what you've said. I am getting the T6 w/ 7 passenger because most of my asian family members are short.
Has anybody here actually leased an XC90? What are the lease figures that you have gotten from VOLVO dealers? I am considering leasing an XC90 2.5T, and would like to get an idea of the lease figures.
Below MSRP will happen by next summer. Why? Try - Lexus RX 330, Lexus GX 470, VW Touareg, Nissan Murano, Chrysler Pacifica and Ford's version of the XC90, the Freestyle. The competition is coming on strong and as good as the Volvo may be today, six to eight months from now it will no longer be the new, best kid on the street.
Comments
Also, it would be great if we can get real confirmation as to gas mileage ratings. To spend $45000 non refundable dollars for a vehicle that may get 11+mpg, on premium no less, is a little daunting.
What was the cause.
The roof of the RX300 is already notorious for being somewhat flimsy and the sunroof option makes matters even worse. I saw an LS400 rollover many years ago wherein the driver had been partially ejected through the sunroof before the second roll.
Not a pretty sight and a good argument for not buying that useless sunroof option that only adds to the dealer's bottom line.
Of course, the downsides of graphite are the heat and the smaller interior perception.
I noticed the taupe in the demo had ink spots on it.
Also, it's not really taupe - I would call it bone, and in person seems too light to go with a black or dark car. I've ordered red with graphite interior.
The more important thing is to keep the leather conditioned (esp. if you are purchasing the car). I found that Volvo's leather tended to crack early on. Similar complaints from friends who own Volvos....
As for the color looking feminine, I didn't think it did. However, I think car platform SUV's, with the exception of the X5 and Cayenne, are geared toward and driven by many more women than men. That won't matter for me, since I won't be driving it unless my wife is in the car anyway.
For what it's worth, I agree with posts regarding the loose steering and imperfect engine choices. However, the T6 did seem to provide a less revving ride than the 2.5 and at highway speeds the T6 seemed more capable of being able to speed up if necessary. Nevertheless, I can see why the 2.5 will be a popular engine choice for the car. It behaves and performs quite like the 3.0 liter 220 HP V6 in my wife's RX300 that we'll be replacing and isn't that much of a step down from the T6 that buyers shouldn't consider it.
Thank you
For the wheel issues, I think the 16" wheels are plain ugly, 17 looks more aggressive, more SUV like.
Shouldn't be any difference in handling, slight difference in replacement cost.
Same w/ the 17 or 18" wheels.
Its mostly looks. We have put 20" wheels on one of our XC90s. Looks awesome!
Also, I know the vehicles are in such demand that negotiation is not possible. However, I was wondering if I may have some luck in negotiating better prices on some of the optional accessories. Any one with experience with this?
Maybe a little more road feel, but thats all.
On the wheel issue, you probably wouldn't get much credit on your originals, depends on the dealer.
format:a/x/msrp
37458/38207/40130
37246/37991/39880
36864/37601/39430
It is the Red w/Taupe interior.
The first was for T6, no options
second/third were 2.5T with premium + versatility + bigger wheels (?17)
There was another T6 but no info on that one.
2.5T + PRM + VRS + 17" wheels: 37246/37991/39880
2.5T + PRM + VRS + 17" wheels: 36864/37601/39430
Thanks,
Chicagoland
'02 Volvo V70
'02 MB S-Class
The used car market is in the tank, and doesn't show any signs of getting better.
Its like asking for a stock price now, but your buying in March.
Price could be completely different.
I know, you understand that they could reappraise the car, but it has been my experience that customers remember the higher number and don't always understand when your car takes a dive in value.
All you could get now is a guess,and it could be way off.
I didn't ask about a trade-in. I've never been given a reasonable offer for a trade-in. I've found that you can usually get at least 20% or more than the best trade-in offer by selling the car yourself without having to do much prep to sell it. One exception I know of was a friend that took advantage of a local dealership that was offering $4000 for anything with a valid VIN number. He unloaded a 17 year old pick-up.
http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/021121-1.htm
However, with all the interest in the car I don't think losing a few deposits is going to cause any dealer grief.
Our deposits are refundable, we want to sell you a car, not just keep your money.
The only time I will stipulate a non-refundable deposit is if the customer orders an unusual car that I could be stuck with if they back out of the deal.
Something like a lime green stickshift wagon!
Drive 45 minutes north of Boston, to the Volvo dealership in Nashua New Hampshire. The salesperson there mentioned yesterday, that they were taking $500 refundable deposits there for the XC90. Case closed 8-)
-mike-
1. T6 Steering: I agree, it's a bit overboosted. If you're someone who suffers from hayfever allergies, you may want to seriously think about this. It seems like an unexpected sneeze could get you to pull the XC90 into the other lane or the curb. It does take away a bit of the sportiness. But if you're one who likes light steering, this will suit you just fine.
2. T6 acceleration: I drive a 2001 Nissan Pathfinder with the 240-hp 3.5L V6. The PF lunges when you press the accelarator. Initially, the T6 seems like it's still thinking about whether it wants to accelarate or not. But when it gets going, it's gone. The reluctance or lag would explain the 0-60 time of 8.8 secs (per MotorWeek). The lag is not a deal breaker for me. As long as I'm aware that this is the character of the engine, I'm OK with it.
3. XC90 Stability: I had the vehicle zigzagging on an empty street and it's very stable. I did not notice the body roll or lean that I experience in the Pathfinder. And the Pathfinder is actually not too bad with body rolls, compared to a previous-gen 4Runner. This is confidence-inspiring.
4. 4-speed Transmission: Very smooth, it works well with the T6.
5. 7-seating: I have no need for 7-seats so I will ditch this option. IMO, it's pretty useless, there is no legroom and footroom. Even if the 2nd row seats are moved forward, there's just not enough room. However, I must admit that getting into the 3rd row is pretty easy.
6. Dolby Pro Logic II: I should have brought a CD, the radio did not sound as good as I expected. I'll bring a CD the next time and reserve judgment then.
7. Miscellaneous: I LOVE the 18" ATLANTIS wheels. Anyone getting a T6 should opt for the Premium Package just for the wheels alone. The sidesteps are too narrow but they really look good. The folding side mirrors are really cool, I like that feature.
The dealership did not have a 2.5T to testdrive, so I'll have to wait for that. But, right now, the T6 is my family's choice.
Hey, my asian family members are short too. But, they're all in Toronto. 99% of the time, it'll just be my wife, twins and I.
Try - Lexus RX 330, Lexus GX 470, VW Touareg, Nissan Murano, Chrysler Pacifica and Ford's version of the XC90, the Freestyle. The competition is coming on strong and as good as the Volvo may be today, six to eight months from now it will no longer be the new, best kid on the street.