Volvo XC90 V8 SE Sport: First Drive

Date: 05 March 2007   |   Author: Tristan Young

Price: £45,950 Category: 4x4 Key Rival: BMW X5

In the current climate (pun intended) you'd think it would be getting evermore difficult to sell 4x4s, particularly the large and powerful variety.

However, in 2006 the business car luxury off-road market actually grew 7.6%.

Into this market, Volvo has now introduced a super-smooth 4.4-litre V8 model complete with SE Sport trim for its XC90. Sport trim means the XC90 comes with a stiffer suspension set-up, which does wonders for the car's driver involvement, yet doesn't compromise the ride quality.

The engine is strictly for those with deep pockets - fuel (20.9mpg) and tax (35% BIK) costs will be painful - but it is an all-round package for those needing a vehicle that can do everything from carrying seven in comfort over long distances to being an exceedingly nippy town car for top executives.

It may cost £45,950, but if you compare it to its rivals it's still £5000 less expensive than the equivalent BMW X5 or Audi Q7.

Verdict: Sport suspension and excellent V8 engine a welcome addition to the XC90 range

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