Volvo XC90 (2002 - 2014) 2.4 D5 SE 5d Geartronic (2004/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I probably have a flat cap and a labrador, and don't use enough contraception. (I am none of the above, I think). Also I see a lot of women driving these, filled to the rafters with kids. So it says I am a woman with a flat cap, etc, etc...

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They enjoy being in it, but all say I should have a flat cap and a labrador. Now the default bus of choice for any movment, anywhere, people and property. I guess they like it.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, very comfortable and well equipped. Could do with the V8 or at least the more powerful diesel though.

What are you likely to buy next?

Unless she changes her mind, another Volvo of some sort. At this rate, it will be another one of these only newer.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£12,500

When did you buy the car?

September 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

We purchsed the vehicle with already high milage (100k) hence the price. Had all the kit we would need and we were happy with the price paid.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

We (I) wanted an SUV to cope with winter, frequent ski trips, poor packing skills and lots of bodies (people, still alive ones). As we had previously owned a Volvo saloon the XC90 was the default choice and we preferred its competition when looking.

What was the dealer like?

Helpful and friendly, managed to come across as not being too pushy as many do. For servicing we go to our local Volvo dealer which is expensive but outstanding service, well above and beyond the norm makes it seem value for money.

What's it like to drive?

Sluggish to get moving, acceptable once on the go. Helps me be less of a yob I suppose. Returns about 30mpg on average with mixed driving. Slightly less with hard driving (or when in Cornwall, where it doesn't fit) and slightly more on the motorway. I tend to cruise at at higher motorway speeds and it returns between 32-36mpg then. All things considered quite reasonable for such a large lump.

What's it like to park?

Quite good visibility and rear parking sensors help, but high windowline means you can loose bollards and low obstructions. There is no hiding its size and poor turning circle, after shunting around to get in a space you often find its hard to get out of the vehicle. (Good thing its got folding mirrors). It is actually very low for an SUV (1.83m) so I have yet to find a carpark it can't fit in.

Have you had any problems with the car?

We had to replace all 5 injectors at an eye watering price by a Volvo main dealer - no idea why they went but could have been a previous owner putting petrol in (its supposed to run on diesel). Also the built in Sat-Nav sometimes doesn't like its disk on cold mornings.

What's most practical about your car?

Extra seats in the boot are great although adults complain about the legroom. Built in middle child seat is fantastic, except it makes the kids argue about who gets to sit there.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

So many of them! Sat-nav is handy (Once the car has warmed up), Split fold tailgate prevents me from getting dirty reaching in and provides a handy seat but if you are short (like me) retriving things from the back of the boot requires climbing in. But the best gadget has to be the heated seats, should be in all cars, period.