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FULL 2012 VOLVO XC90 REVIEW
WHAT'S NEW FOR 2012
For 2012, the Volvo XC90 loses its V8 engine and gets a reshuffled lineup of trim levels, with Bluetooth streaming audio now standard on all models. The 3.2 R-Design also gets adaptive xenon headlights.
INTRODUCTION
Even though Volvo's newer five-passenger XC60 midsize crossover has stolen some of its thunder, the seven-seat 2012 Volvo XC90 remains a solid alternative for folks who need more room for passengers, cargo or both. Like all Volvos, the XC90 offers sophisticated good looks, a comfortable interior and an extensive array of advanced safety features. Buyers can also choose between the cushy ride provided by the standard suspension or the confident handling that comes with the R-Design model's firmer sport-tuned hardware.
On the downside, the XC90 is a dinosaur by car standards, since it debuted way back in 2003. It's aged pretty well, but the competition has gotten much stronger. In particular, the XC90 doesn't offer as much space for people and cargo as the non-luxury-branded (but still plenty luxurious) just to name two. It also lacks many of the advanced safety features available on its newer Volvo siblings, not to mention soldiering on with an older and generally obtuse electronics interface. Then there's the issue of power. Last year's available V8 engine has been dropped, and this leaves the underwhelming 3.2-liter six-cylinder as the only motivation for this large family crossover. Its fuel economy isn't impressive, either.
As such, most of the XC90's competitors are likely to represent a better purchase. Besides the two mentioned above, the Acura MDX is the closest rival in terms of size and price, but betters the Volvo in terms of power, driving dynamics and features. If a third-row seat isn't important, the Lexus RX 350, Volkswagen Touareg and Volvo's own XC60 are other strong alternatives. However, should you simply be looking for an alternative to the pricey luxury family crossovers from Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, the 2012 Volvo XC90 still represents a solid value proposition.
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