The 2011 Volvo XC90 ranks 15 out of 18 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 60 published reviews and test drives of the Volvo XC90, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
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The XC90 is an affordable family hauler with great seating and excellent crash test scores. While other SUVs may have nice interiors and better performance, the Volvo XC90 has a very low starting price for the class.
Many reviewers feel that the 2011 Volvo XC90 is a good option, but choosing it means making some tradeoffs. "The XC90 does have a first-rate interior, decent driving dynamics and perfect safety scores, but some of its competitors have all of that and then some," writes Edmunds.
Most reviewers say there are more luxurious interiors in the luxury midsize SUV class, as well as SUVs that drive better than the XC90 does. Plus, it’s been years since the XC90 had a major update. The competition is simply younger than the XC90 and it shows.
Still, if you’re shopping for an SUV that puts family first, reviewers say that the XC90 makes a good choice. It’s an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety “Top Safety Pick,” comes with excellent standard safety features, as well as standard seating for seven and has plenty of cargo space. It’s tough to argue with those kinds of family-car credentials – especially since the XC90s starting price should leave plenty of cash in your kids’ college fund. But, if you’re looking for out-and-out luxury or engaging performance, shop the competition.
Other Luxury SUVs to Consider
The 2011 Volvo XC90 is priced low for its class, so if you want more from a three-row SUV, be prepared to pay for it. One alternative is the Lincoln MKT. It starts at about $6,000 more than the XC90 does, but it has a better base fuel economy rating, and a third row that reviewers say can actually handle adults. Plus, the MKT is another IIHS “Top Safety Pick.”
For something with a more modern feel, check out the Acura MDX. Reviewers say that it’s one of the best driving SUVs in the class and though its base price is higher than the XC90’s, you do get standard all-wheel drive on the MDX. The MDX can handle three car seats in the second row, though it can’t match the XC90 when it comes to cargo space.
Details: Volvo XC90
There are few changes for 2011 on the Volvo XC90. One is newly-standard Bluetooth.
The 2011 Volvo XC90 comes in several trims -- the base 3.2, 3.2 R-Design and V8 AWD. Front-wheel drive is standard on the 3.2 trims, but you can get all-wheel drive as a $2,000 option. V8 trims are all-wheel drive only
