The Volvo XC90 has long been praised by critics and adored by families, but does this luxury SUV truly live up to the hype? We delve into a comprehensive review of the 2016 Volvo XC90 to see if it remains a compelling choice for families in today’s market. Known for its safety and elegant Scandinavian design, the XC90 faces stiff competition in the crowded SUV segment. Let’s explore if this model can still accommodate car seats, kids, gear, and the discerning tastes of modern families.
Image: The sleek front end of the 2016 Volvo XC90, showcasing its refined and modern design.
Scandinavian Style Meets Practicality: The XC90’s Design
First impressions matter, and the Volvo XC90 certainly makes a statement with its design. As a large SUV, it cleverly masks its size with flowing lines and a sophisticated silhouette. The distinctive lightning bolt-shaped LED taillights and integrated rear spoiler give it a sporty yet elegant edge. While it feels substantial behind the wheel, the XC90’s design is less boxy than some competitors, offering a balance between interior space and urban maneuverability.
The front fascia is particularly striking, featuring assertive headlights and a sculpted bumper that exude a subtle sense of confidence. While the “Bursting Blue” color of the R-Design trim tested might not appeal to everyone (classic pearl white remains a popular choice), its vibrancy ensures you’ll easily spot your XC90 in a crowded parking lot. Overall, the exterior design of the Volvo XC90 successfully blends Scandinavian minimalism with the practical needs of a family SUV.
Image: The driver-centric dashboard of the 2016 Volvo XC90, highlighting its elegant and minimalist interior design.
Who is the Volvo XC90 Designed For?
The Volvo XC90 appeals to a specific type of buyer, one who prioritizes:
- Families needing a mid-size SUV with three rows: Perfect for growing families or those who frequently carpool.
- Luxury and thoughtful features: Attention to detail and premium materials elevate the driving experience.
- Cutting-edge technology: Packed with innovative tech features for convenience and safety.
- Confident driving in various conditions: Offers power and stability for both city streets and rougher terrains.
- Top-tier safety: Volvo’s renowned safety reputation is a major draw.
- Minimalist Scandinavian aesthetics: Appreciates clean lines, uncluttered design, and a European sensibility.
- A premium budget: While a used 2016 model offers better value, it was originally positioned as a luxury vehicle.
Inside the Details: Hits and Misses of the Volvo XC90’s Features
Volvo loaded the XC90 with an array of features, showcasing both innovation and thoughtful design. Let’s break down the highlights and a few areas that could be improved:
Image: A detailed view of the capless fuel tank in the Volvo XC90, emphasizing convenience and modern design.
Hits:
- Engaging Driving Experience: The XC90 delivers a robust and confident ride, handling smoothly on city streets and highways alike.
- Versatile Drive Modes: Five distinct drive modes, from sporty to off-road, allow drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance to different conditions and preferences.
- Integrated Windshield Wipers: Windshield washer fluid jets are cleverly incorporated into the wipers themselves, improving efficiency and visibility.
- Adjustable Air Suspension: The ‘airlift’ feature (if equipped) raises the vehicle for off-road adventures or lowers it for easier cargo loading, adding a layer of practicality.
- Head-Up Display: Projecting key driving information onto the windshield (speed, speed limit, cruise control settings) enhances driver awareness and reduces distraction (optional feature).
- Road Sign Recognition: The system intelligently detects and displays speed limit signs, promoting safer driving (feature dependent on options package).
- Capless Fuel Tank: A simple yet appreciated convenience, making refueling quicker and cleaner.
- Integrated Second-Row Booster Seats: A Volvo signature, these built-in booster seats are incredibly convenient for families with younger children.
- Adaptive Headlights: Headlights that swivel with the steering wheel improve visibility around corners and on winding roads at night.
- Apple CarPlay Integration: Seamless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay allows for hands-free calling, messaging, and navigation through the car’s infotainment system.
- Under-Seat Lighting: Subtle lighting beneath the front seats adds a touch of luxury and practicality, illuminating the footwells.
- Premium Bowers & Wilkins Sound System: The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivers an exceptional audio experience, rivaling concert hall quality.
- Generous Cargo Space: Even with the third row seats in use, the XC90 offers commendable cargo capacity, accommodating strollers and groceries without compromise.
Image: The Volvo XC90’s display indicating passenger seatbelt status, emphasizing Volvo’s focus on safety.
What Could Be Improved (Things to Get Used To):
- Touchscreen-Dependent Controls: The majority of vehicle functions are controlled through the touchscreen, lacking physical buttons for many common tasks. This can be distracting while driving, requiring the driver to take their eyes off the road to operate climate control or audio settings.
- Visibility Challenges: Rear visibility can be somewhat restricted due to the thick rear roof pillars and headrests. While blind spot monitoring and the rearview camera are helpful, the obstructed rear window can be noticeable. Lowering the second-row headrests via the touchscreen is an option, but the process is not quick or easily accessible while driving.
- Minimalist Key Fob: While aesthetically pleasing, the minimalist key fob with its narrow side-mounted buttons can be less user-friendly, particularly for those with longer fingernails.
- Third-Row Access: Accessing the third row can be challenging, especially with car seats installed in the second row. The second-row seats do not slide forward extensively, requiring some maneuvering to reach the back. Opting for captain’s chairs in the second row can improve third-row accessibility if it’s frequently used.
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Image: Ample legroom in the second row of the Volvo XC90, showcasing its spaciousness for passengers.
Image: Close-up of the Volvo XC90’s touchscreen interface, illustrating the central control system for vehicle functions.
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Image: The minimalist and sleek design of the Volvo XC90 key fob.
Volvo’s Pilot Assist: A Step Towards Autonomous Driving
One of the standout features of the Volvo XC90 is its Pilot Assist system. This semi-autonomous driving technology, along with adaptive cruise control, significantly enhances the driving experience, especially in traffic congestion. Pilot Assist can help with steering, acceleration, and braking under certain conditions, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys or during daily commutes. While not fully self-driving, it represents a significant step towards automated driving and adds a layer of convenience and safety. Exploring the full capabilities of the XC90’s self-driving suite is highly recommended to truly appreciate its technological advancements.
Image: A side-by-side comparison highlighting the design evolution from the previous generation to the 2016 Volvo XC90 model.
Is the Volvo XC90 a Forever Family Car?
For families who primarily utilize the first and second rows and only occasionally need third-row seating, the Volvo XC90 presents a compelling case as a long-term family vehicle. Its blend of luxury, safety, technology, and practicality makes it a strong contender in the SUV market.
Image: A family comfortably seated in the second row of the Volvo XC90, emphasizing its spaciousness and family-friendly design.
What We Love About the Volvo XC90:
- Pilot Assist (part of optional Convenience Package)
- Luxurious leather and suede interior with refined stitching
- Large and intuitive touchscreen interface
- Elegant and minimalist Scandinavian interior design
- Convenient built-in second-row booster seats
- Fun and engaging driving dynamics, yet easy to park
- Ample second-row legroom, even with car seats installed
- Generous cargo space behind the third row
- Helpful Head-up display (optional)
- Road sign detection and display for added safety
- Exceptional Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system (optional)
- Practical capless fuel tank
- Ambient under-seat lighting
- Useful surround view cameras (part of optional Vision Package)
Image: The unique dial-style ignition in the Volvo XC90, a distinctive Volvo design element.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Volvo XC90:
- Starting price was premium; used models offer better value.
- Premium fuel is recommended, increasing running costs.
- Third-row access can be challenging.
- Learning curve for the advanced safety technology and features.
- Reliance on touchscreen controls may not suit all drivers.
- Limited USB ports (single USB in center armrest) may be insufficient for modern families.
Final Verdict: The 2016 Volvo XC90 remains a highly desirable luxury SUV, especially for families prioritizing safety, sophisticated design, and advanced technology. While some aspects like touchscreen controls and third-row access might require adjustment, the XC90’s numerous strengths, particularly its comfortable and luxurious interior, engaging driving experience, and comprehensive safety features, solidify its position as a top contender in the used SUV market. For those seeking a stylish, safe, and well-equipped family SUV, a used Volvo XC90 is definitely worth considering.
