Critics and families alike have lauded the Volvo XC90, but does this luxury SUV truly live up to the hype as the perfect family vehicle? We delve into a comprehensive review of the 2016 Volvo XC90 to see if it can handle car seats, kids, gear, and the discerning needs of today’s families.
The XC90’s Appeal: More Than Just Looks?
Skepticism is natural when a vehicle receives as much praise as the 2016 Volvo XC90. Could it genuinely be the ‘forever car’ many seek? Volvo’s reputation for safety is undeniable, and the XC90 consistently earns top safety ratings. Furthermore, Volvo’s signature understated European design is appealing, but would the minimalist cabin provide the luxury and comfort expected in a premium SUV? And crucially, in the competitive three-row SUV segment, is the XC90 genuinely spacious enough for a family’s needs?
The popularity of the Volvo XC90 among both automotive critics and consumers is undeniable. To truly understand its appeal, we put the XC90 to the test, examining its features, functionality, and family-friendliness.
First Impressions: Design and Aesthetics
Let’s address the visual appeal of the XC90. This is a large SUV, and its size can be deceptive; from behind the wheel, it feels even more substantial than it appears. The distinctive lightning bolt-shaped taillights and rear spoiler contribute to its sporty silhouette, giving the impression of aerodynamic design.
The front fascia is also more streamlined, with a touch of assertiveness integrated into the headlight and bumper design. Compared to some boxier SUVs, the XC90 adopts a less bulky approach, which offers advantages for parking but might slightly compromise passenger space, particularly in the third row. While the vibrant Bursting Blue of the R-Design model tested might not be to everyone’s taste (classic pearl white remains a popular choice), its visibility in crowded parking areas is certainly a practical benefit.
Who is the Ideal Volvo XC90 Owner?
The Volvo XC90 appeals to a specific type of buyer. Consider if you fit this profile:
- Families requiring a mid-size SUV with three rows: The XC90 adeptly balances maneuverability with passenger capacity.
- Buyers who appreciate luxury and thoughtful details: Volvo’s attention to detail is evident throughout the vehicle.
- Tech-enthusiasts who embrace innovation: The XC90 is packed with advanced technology features.
- Drivers seeking confident performance in varied conditions: The XC90 delivers power and composure on diverse road surfaces.
- Safety-conscious buyers: Volvo’s commitment to safety is a core brand value.
- Admirers of minimalist Swedish design and European styling: The XC90 embodies Scandinavian design principles.
- Buyers comfortable with a premium price point: While used models offer value, the XC90 is positioned in the luxury segment.
Feature Deep Dive: Hits and Areas for Improvement
Volvo prioritized packing the XC90 with a comprehensive suite of features. From innovative technologies to practical touches, spending time in this SUV is generally a pleasant and comfortable experience. Let’s break down the standout features and a few minor drawbacks:
Standout Features (Hits):
- Excellent Driving Dynamics: The XC90 provides a robust and assured driving experience, performing admirably on city streets and highways.
- Versatile Drive Modes: Five distinct drive modes, ranging from sporty to off-road, allow drivers to customize the driving experience to their preferences and conditions.
- Integrated Windshield Washer Nozzles: Windshield wipers that dispense washer fluid directly from the wiper blades, rather than the hood, improve efficiency and visibility.
- Adjustable Ride Height (Airlift Feature): An “airlift” suspension feature allows raising the vehicle by two inches for off-road situations or lowering it by two inches to facilitate cargo loading. Convenient cargo area buttons simplify adjustments.
- Head-Up Display: An optional head-up display ($900) projects essential information like speed, speed limits, and cruise control settings directly onto the windshield, enhancing driver awareness.
- Road Sign Recognition: This feature, when activated, displays speed limit icons on the driver information screen and head-up display, dynamically updating based on detected road signs.
- Capless Fuel Tank: A capless gas tank simplifies refueling, eliminating the need to handle a fuel cap.
- Integrated Second-Row Booster Seat: Volvo’s integrated booster seats, a long-standing feature, offer exceptional convenience for families with younger children.
- Adaptive Headlights: Articulating headlights that pivot with steering input enhance visibility around curves and turns, especially on dark roads.
- Apple CarPlay Integration: Seamless Apple CarPlay connectivity via USB allows for hands-free calling, messaging, and access to phone apps through the car’s infotainment system.
- Under-Seat Lighting: Subtle lighting beneath the front seats adds a touch of luxury and enhances visibility in the footwells.
- Premium Bowers & Wilkins Sound System: The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system ($2,650) delivers audiophile-grade sound quality, creating an immersive audio experience.
- Generous Cargo Space with Third Row Up: The XC90 provides usable cargo space even with the third row seats in use, a notable advantage in this class.
Areas for Improvement (Misses):
-
Touchscreen-Dependent Controls: The majority of vehicle functions are controlled via the touchscreen, with limited physical buttons. This can make tasks like adjusting climate control or audio settings distracting while driving, requiring the driver to take their eyes off the road.
-
Visibility Challenges: Rear visibility can be somewhat restricted due to the rear roof pillars and headrests. Blind-spot monitoring and the rearview camera are essential aids. While second-row headrests can be lowered via the touchscreen, the process is not quick or easily accessible while driving.
-
Minimalist Key Fob Usability: The sleek key fob, while aesthetically pleasing, features narrow side-mounted buttons that can be challenging to operate, particularly for those with longer fingernails.
-
Third-Row Access: Accessing the third row can be cumbersome. With car seats installed in the second row, entry is restricted, and the second-row seats do not slide forward sufficiently to create a wide passage. For frequent third-row use, opting for captain’s chairs in the second row is advisable.
Advanced Driver Assistance: Volvo’s Pilot Assist
A standout feature of the Volvo XC90 is Pilot Assist, Volvo’s semi-autonomous driving system. Coupled with adaptive cruise control, Pilot Assist significantly reduces driver fatigue, especially in traffic congestion.
Pilot Assist effectively manages steering, acceleration, and braking within marked lanes under certain conditions, providing a more relaxed driving experience. While not fully autonomous, it represents a significant step towards automated driving and enhances safety and convenience. Exploring the full capabilities of Volvo’s self-driving suite is highly recommended to appreciate its benefits.
Final Verdict: Is the Volvo XC90 a Forever Family SUV?
For families who primarily utilize the second row but occasionally need third-row seating, the Volvo XC90 is an excellent choice. It blends luxury, safety, and family-friendly features in a stylish and refined package.
Volvo XC90 SUV: What We Loved
- Pilot Assist (requires optional convenience package)
- Premium leather and suede interior with detailed stitching
- Large, intuitive touchscreen interface
- Elegant and minimalist interior design
- Integrated second-row booster seats
- Engaging driving experience and easy maneuverability
- Ample second-row legroom, even with car seats
- Generous cargo capacity behind the third row
- Head-up display for enhanced driver information
- Road sign recognition and display
- Exceptional Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system
- Convenient capless gas tank
- Under-seat lighting for added ambiance and practicality
- Surround view cameras (requires optional vision package)
Key Considerations for the Volvo XC90 SUV
- Starting price around $44,000 (used 2016 models vary); as-tested model price approximately $67,000.
- Premium fuel is recommended.
- Third-row access can be challenging.
- Familiarization with advanced safety technology requires time.
- Reliance on touchscreen controls for many functions may not suit all drivers.
- Limited USB ports (single port in center armrest) and 12V power outlets.
By Scotty Reiss
Expert car reviewer specializing in family vehicles.
