Alas, the smallest bump feels like a mountain and occupants enjoy only a fraction of Volvo's legendary seat comfort. Actually, I spent more time anticipating road imperfections and bracing myself for the worse. On the other hand, I must admit that the vehicle remains totally solid and level when cornering or braking.
Fuel-thirsty
It's impossible to overlook the fact that my tester averaged some 16 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers during the test week. Sure, the 311-horsepower V8 is a mighty beast that's always too happy to let out an enthusiastic roar, but this feeling was overshadowed by a dreadful focus on the fuel tank needle -- not the speedometer's.
Driving dynamics are beyond reproach, though, except maybe for a shy steering. Fit and finish is flawless and gobs of power are always on tap. I would have liked a little more cargo room and, perhaps more importantly, a lower loading height, but these are just details.
In the end, the R-Design package is not an improvement over the venerable Volvo XC90. This premium SUV has been forever known for its world-class comfort and safety, but it loses sight of its true purpose by making an excessively sporty move.
To all you Swedish folks out there, remember this: function should always reign over form.
photo:Marc Bouchard
Fuel-thirsty
It's impossible to overlook the fact that my tester averaged some 16 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers during the test week. Sure, the 311-horsepower V8 is a mighty beast that's always too happy to let out an enthusiastic roar, but this feeling was overshadowed by a dreadful focus on the fuel tank needle -- not the speedometer's.
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| The 311-horsepower V8 is a mighty beast that's always too happy to let out an enthusiastic roar. |
Driving dynamics are beyond reproach, though, except maybe for a shy steering. Fit and finish is flawless and gobs of power are always on tap. I would have liked a little more cargo room and, perhaps more importantly, a lower loading height, but these are just details.
In the end, the R-Design package is not an improvement over the venerable Volvo XC90. This premium SUV has been forever known for its world-class comfort and safety, but it loses sight of its true purpose by making an excessively sporty move.
To all you Swedish folks out there, remember this: function should always reign over form.
photo:Marc Bouchard
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