Pros and cons of the Volvo XC90. Weaknesses and disadvantages of the Volvo XC90. The history of the model

Today in our secondary market the Swedish crossover Volvo XC90 is in strong demand. Its popularity is quite understandable - the car has a good balance of consumer qualities and, moreover, is quite reliable.

The progenitor of the XC90 model can be conditionally considered the all-wheel drive station wagon Volvo V70 Cross Country, which appeared a little more than thirteen years ago (today the direct successor of the model in the line of the Swedish company is called the XC70), which differed from the base station wagon V70 AWD only in increased ground clearance and a characteristic "off-road" body kit around the entire perimeter of the body ... In principle, the “seventy” turned out to be quite successful, but could not fully compete with the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz ML that had just entered the market. Most likely, the high demand for German crossovers served as the main impetus for the creation of the Volvo XC90. The debut of this full-size crossover took place in 2002 at the Detroit Auto Show, at the same time sales began in the United States. And already in 2003, the model appeared at the official dealers of European countries, including Russia.

Throughout its history, the Volvo XC90 was produced with only one five-door body, but depending on the modification, it can have five or seven seats. Restyling of 2006 did not introduce serious innovations into the exterior of the car: the main changes concerned the design of the front and rear bumpers, the rear lighting units were slightly updated.

Body and interior

It is worth paying tribute to the durability of the factory paintwork, even on cars of the early years of production, it is very difficult to detect foci of corrosion. Exceptions are cars that have been in serious accidents, and even then only in those cases when the repair of body parts was made in artisanal conditions. For the rest, only chrome strips around the side windows can cause trouble, which over time from the effects of our road reagents begin to flake and fade.

When choosing between European and overseas options, it will be useful to know that the versions intended for the Old World markets differ in slightly higher-quality interior materials than on cars that arrived from overseas. And cars produced after 2006 can be identified by a slightly different design of the instrument panel, and the four-spoke steering wheel was replaced with a three-spoke one.

Regardless of model year or country of origin, all Volvo XC90s come with a wealth of basic equipment. So, the minimum configuration already includes full power accessories, climate control, an audio system with a CD player and six speakers, fog lights, six airbags, ABS, DSTC, EBD. In addition, the most expensive versions were equipped with entertainment centers for passengers of the second row of seats with monitors built into the headrests of the driver's and front passenger's seats, and wood or aluminum inserts were widely used in the trim of the front panel, steering wheel and gear knob. Optionally, it was possible to order xenon headlights, a sunroof, sensors for automatically turning on the wipers and headlights.

Driving force

Initially, the car was equipped only with in-line gasoline engines. Moreover, both - the five-cylinder 2.5-liter and six-cylinder 2.9 liters - were equipped with a turbocharger. It is worth noting that the XC90 engines, intended for the American market, had a lower power, in contrast to those supplied to the countries of the Old World, and, accordingly, were less picky about the quality of fuel. After the start of deliveries of the model to Europe, the range of power units was supplemented by a turbodiesel with a capacity of 163 hp. In 2004, a version of the Volvo XC90 appeared, equipped with an atmospheric 4.4-liter V-shaped "eight", giving out 315 hp. After restyling, carried out in 2006, a 2.4-liter turbodiesel, boosted to 185 hp, was added to the range of the above engines. and delivering a maximum torque of 400 Nm. In 2007, the 2.9-liter gasoline turbo engine was replaced by an atmospheric 3.2-liter "six" with a capacity of 238 hp. All gasoline engines in their design had a variable valve timing system. A belt is used as a timing drive on gasoline engines of 2.5 and 2.9 liters, as well as a turbodiesel. On atmospheric gasoline engines, a timing chain is used as a timing drive.

Gasoline units, according to the owners, do not cause any special problems. When operating a car in Russian conditions, due to the low quality of fuel, representatives of official services recommend flushing the injection system every 30-40 thousand km. When carrying out this operation, it does not hurt to clean the throttle valve assembly from carbon deposits in order to avoid uneven engine idling. If this is not done, then there is a high probability that the entire throttle assembly will soon fail. The cost of this spare part is about 30,000 rubles, and its replacement at the stations of official Volvo dealers will cost the owner 7,000-9,000 rubles. Due to the same low quality of fuel, the candles will have to be changed twice as often as the period prescribed by the manufacturer. The turbine is reliable and with proper operation (only high-quality engine oil is used, and after high loads the owner lets the engine run for five minutes at idle speed) can serve faithfully for more than 150 thousand km. According to the regulations, every 120 thousand km of replacement requires a timing belt along with rollers. The cost of work together with spare parts is approximately 15,000 rubles.

Expert opinion

Dmitry POLUPEEV,
technical director of the technical center "Global-auto"

When buying a used one in the secondary market, you shouldn't skimp on diagnostics. This operation will help to identify defects (if any), and, already referring to its results, you will bargain with the previous owner of the car.

Hot spots of rust formation can occur only on cars that have been in serious accidents.

The engines used in the XC90 are reliable. But at the same time, they are very demanding on fuel quality and timely maintenance. The motors are attached to the body on hydraulic supports, in turn, the latter fail quite often. The first bell for their replacement is a slight vibration in the engine compartment next to the ball joint. Uneven engine idling indicates that it is time to clean the throttle valve and flush the injector.

In the chassis, perhaps, wheel bearings can be noted. These are the weakest points of the Volvo XC90. Often, these parts begin to hum even after a run of 10-15 thousand km. The problem arises due to the fact that they are overtightened at the plant, which is why they fail so quickly. A large amount of electronics, which the Volvo XC90 is literally stuffed to the eyeballs, only in rare cases fails.

Transmission

Throughout production, the XC90 was equipped with both manual and automatic transmissions. The turbocharged 2.5-liter petrol engine was equipped with only five-band automatic transmissions. A four-speed hydromechanical transmission was paired with a 2.9-liter, and newer atmospheric gasoline engines were already equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions. The turbo diesel was equipped with both mechanical and automatic transmissions. Until 2004, the mechanics had five stages, then it was replaced by a six-speed gearbox. The machine had five stages until 2006, but then there were six of them.

Both mechanical and automatic gearboxes are distinguished by enviable reliability - their service life sometimes surpasses the line of 250 thousand km. The only exception is a five-speed automatic: after a run of 200 thousand km, the hydraulic module often fails, as a result of which jerks appear when changing gears. Repair of this unit together with spare parts will cost approximately 60,000 rubles.

The Haldex multi-plate friction clutch is responsible for the distribution of torque between the axles. When driving on a flat road, a little less than 5% of the torque is transmitted to the rear wheels. When one of the wheels on the front axle is slipping, up to 50% of the torque can be transmitted to the rear. Unfortunately, there is no forced blocking of the interaxle coupling. The absence of differential locks is compensated by their imitation by means of wheel braking.

Chassis

Maintenance of independent suspension of all wheels will not become a burden for the owner. Ball joints serve more than 100 thousand km. Front shock absorbers do not cause problems for more than 150 thousand km, rear ones are able to withstand twice as long. The struts of the front stabilizer must be changed no earlier than after 70-80 thousand km, the rear ones survive 100 thousand kilometers. Wheel bearings, according to the service employees, can make noise after 10-15 thousand kilometers, but this does not happen often.

The service life of the front brake pads is about 20 thousand km, the rear ones usually last two to three times longer. The discs can survive two to three sets of brake pads, depending on the driving style of the car owner.

Owners' opinions

Andrey STRELKOV
Age - 38 years Volvo XC90 2.5T 5АКП (2004 onwards)

So, the XC90 is a fairly comfortable car. It has a well-thought-out interior and high-level ergonomics. I have a seven-seater version, and this enthralls my large family. In terms of driving qualities, my car is ideal for long distance travel. It can be compared to a cruise ocean liner in terms of smoothness and certainty of its course at a speed of 120–150 km / h. On the off-road side, the XC90 runs smoothly on moderate dirt and snow, with only the skin squeaking under the heel. I did not climb into the "jungle", as there is a firm understanding that this is not an all-terrain vehicle.

Vyacheslav SOROKIN
Age - 28 years Volvo XC90 2.9T 4АКП (2005 onwards)

In 2006 he ordered a car from America. When I received it, I immediately did a full MOT, which cost a lot - 75,000 rubles. The service was pleasantly surprised by the good attitude towards customers, everything is done there quickly, there are no problems with spare parts. Driving on the highway is just a fairy tale. It feels like you are sailing on a yacht: where the "donut" turned, there you will go. It falls slightly when cornering. I didn't check the passability in full, but the summer cottage mud and snowdrifts pass confidently, and I don't need more. In general, I think this is the best family SUV in its segment for the money. I am satisfied.

text: Sergey ZUBENKOV
photo: Roman TARASENKO, manufacturer

"Volvo-XC90"

General merits

The XC90 SUV is fueled by the fact that, despite its venerable age (after all, eight years already), it is not even going to retire. New, it is still in good demand, and here, in Russia, it is sold more successfully than any of its relatives. Note that the 2006 modification almost did not affect the exterior of the car. Is this not a sign that the Gothenburg stylists got to the point from the very beginning? At the same time, the appearance, which has not lost its relevance, is not the only trump card of the "Swede".

At one time it was he who was the first off-road vehicle to receive five stars in the EuroNCAP crash tests. He also has a spacious and comfortable interior with a noble finish and equipment corresponding to a prestigious car. Among the engines there are no frankly weak ones, but the line allows you to choose both an economical diesel engine and a very exuberant V8. I am glad that, even at maximum speeds, Volvo firmly holds onto the asphalt.

The XC90 needs an all-wheel drive transmission primarily for safe driving on slippery roads, not for jeeping, but it cannot be called completely helpless outside the asphalt. Thanks to a stabilization system that simulates the operation of cross-axle differentials, the car is able to get out of the diagonal trap.

As you can see, the XC90 has a lot of good things, it remains to find out the main thing - how reliable it is.

Body and its electrical equipment

Rusting body is not about the XC90. Thanks to galvanizing and high-quality painting, the Swedish crossover looks fresh and neat even after 4–5 Moscow winters. Except that over the years in his eyes, the shine may diminish due to the clouding of the headlight diffusers. Such a misfortune happens on specimens from five years old and older, moreover, who came to us from the USA, more often from California with its humid, salt-rich climate.

Speaking of California, for more than a decade, the most populous American state has made special demands on the vehicles sold on its territory. They are structurally different from the rest and even have their own markings. For example, on the Volvo identification plate in the upper field of the right column, where the region code is indicated, the "Californian" has the number 31, while all the other "Americans" have 30. The cars intended for the countries of Eastern Europe, including including Russia, marked with the number 23.

Returning to the clouded headlights, it is worth mentioning that it is far from always the official service stations undertake to eliminate this defect. But you can sand the plastic of the diffusers on the side. Depending on the degree of turbidity, repairs in specialized workshops cost from one and a half to six thousand rubles for two headlights.

Quite rarely, but there are problems with "xenon". Due to a breakdown, the reflector position sensor in the emergency mode tilts down, and the lamp starts to shine "under the feet" of the car. The problem is solved only by buying a new headlight.

Few stocks in the electrical equipment of the cabin. Customers mostly complained about bouncing clock numbers and missing stitching on the dashboard information display. Someone on the radio tape recorder went out the board, some keys became blind or the sound disappeared. But all this is typical for cars produced before 2005 with a still pristine (not modernized) electrical system. In addition, the “tidy” and infotainment module (ICM) in most cases can be repaired, thereby saving up to half the cost of a new part. Finally, the cause of the DSTC dynamic stabilization system malfunction indicator illuminated is most likely a failure of the longitudinal and lateral acceleration sensor (BCS). It is located under the front passenger seat, in the space between the trim and the floor, and it can simply rot over time from moisture and salt.

Transmission

Depending on the engine and the year of manufacture, the XC90 is equipped with three different "automatic" machines and one manual gearbox. With the 6-speed manual gearbox M-66, which is paired with 5-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines, there are no problems. The relatively fresh TF80SC automatic transmission assisting the V8, the inline 3.2-liter "six" and the post-styled D5 is quite reliable. However, the other two automatic transmissions - the 4T65 "Jemovsky" installed on the T6 and its brother from Aisin-Warner AW55, serving diesel and gasoline in-line "fives" - not so rarely failed during the warranty period.

The main symptoms of their diseases are jerks while driving, refusals to change gears in manual mode, strong blows when moving the gearbox selector from “parking” to “drive” or “reverse”. As the mechanics say, in terms of the number of possible failures, the 4T65 and AW55 are worth each other.

However, in terms of repairs, a 4-speed gearbox is preferable. Depending on the depth of the problems, this unit can be restored for an amount of 50 to 100 thousand rubles, which, even in the most expensive version, is 2.5 times cheaper than a new box. But AW55 is hardly cured. Yes, the car will go after the repair, but jerks and jerks when changing gears will remain. Therefore, it is wiser to find a serviceable box with a broken car or contract, say, from Europe.

As for the replacement of the transmission fluid, this operation is not regulated in Volvo and is recommended only if necessary, for example, due to the strong aging of the oil associated with harsh operating conditions.

There are other dangerous places in the XC90 transmission.

It is not at all superfluous, especially on older cars, to check the condition of the lubrication of the CV joint of the propeller shaft at the junction thereof with the angular gearbox. Due to the proximity to the hot catalytic converter, the oil in the hinge will simply burn out after a while. Let not immobilize, but the worn out bushing of the bevel gear can also turn the car from full-to-front-wheel drive. The cut of its slots is most typical for specimens that have traveled a lot with trailers. The trouble is to diagnose it simply: if, with the engine running and the gear engaged, the cardan remains stationary, therefore, the bushing has flown. If the shaft rotates, but the rear wheels still do not, it is possible that the electronic rear differential control module (DEM) or the oil pump of the Haldex clutch has died.

Please note that the DEM module is often stolen. A decent ground clearance of the car allows intruders to crawl under the bottom and screw an expensive block.

Engines

The youngest in the family of XC90 engines - the 3.2-liter, 6-cylinder B6324S, introduced in 2007 - has not been spared childhood illnesses. For example, a flawed oil separator in the crankcase gas recirculation system caused increased oil consumption and oil leakage through the seals. The Swedes quickly eliminated this design flaw, and on all the "damaged" engines, the mechanics installed a new valve cover with a modified oil separator under warranty.

The second, also, by the way, the eliminated joint was not even connected with the motor itself, but with the gas outlet pipe of the cooling system flowing exactly above the generator.

In general, the power units of the crossover are reliable and, with runs up to 200 thousand, only require preventive measures to maintain their health.

For turbines, it is helpful to let the motor run off load for a couple of minutes before stopping. On gasoline engines, regardless of the regulations, it is better to change the spark plugs every 30 thousand km. Flushing the injectors and the throttle valve assembly at the same time contributes to stable idling.

It is advisable to change the timing belt not after 120 thousand km, but every 90, as the paragraph "severe operating conditions" indicates in the manual. Every three years, it is useful to rinse the radiator honeycomb from adhering dirt and fluff. The operation is quite expensive: removing a block of three heat exchangers, disassembling, washing it costs about 16,500 rubles, but for heavily heat-loaded engines this is an urgent need.

All engines in the range are picky about fuel quality, so it's best to stick with proven refuelings.

On cars with high mileage, in the event of a leak in the crankshaft oil seals, you will most likely have to change the oil catcher of the crankcase gas recirculation system and the coked couplings of the phase shifters. Please note: engines with a thoroughly dirty oil system on "American" Volvo are much more common than on "European" and even "Russian" ones.

Another point: due to the high temperature in the engine compartment (this mainly concerns the T6 engine), the plastic tubes of the air supply system crack. The V8 should be listened to carefully, emitting noise from the accessory drive. The whistling rollers can jam.

The merits of a Volvo XC90, even a used one, are undeniable. It remains to weigh everything.

And then came the turn of the new large crossover XC90, which for a long time remained the actual flagship of the lineup.

Almost immediately, the car received very good reviews for its first-class interior, good handling and safety by crossover standards. And with a seven-seat version, success as a family car in Europe and especially in the States was a matter of time. At first, the car was offered only with gasoline turbo engines - in-line "five" 2.5 and "six" 2.9.

Over time, diesel engines were added to them, a gasoline V8 4.4, and after restyling in 2007 - also an excellent in-line "six" 3.2. All-wheel drive, which all cars in Russia are equipped with, is not the only option in the USA. Cars with a 2.5 engine and only front drive wheels were offered, but most buyers chose all drive wheels even for the base motor, so meeting a front-wheel drive XC90 is as difficult as a green leaf on the street in January.

The commonality of the platform with the first generation Volvo S80 sedan also means similarity in basic features and "sores". And also - a high class in decoration and equipment. The Swedes did not indulge in the use of aluminum in the structure, but their steel almost does not rust, the body is perfectly covered with a layer of paint and numerous plastic structures, and there is no need to talk about strength. Often times, the XC90 can easily endure such blows, after which even purebred German cars would go to the junkyard.

Volvo S80 first generation

Unfortunately, the payback for strength is a rather large mass - even a basic car with a 2.5 engine weighs at least 2,100 kg, and in-line "six" in top configurations can pull all 2,250 kg. The design of the suspensions has not changed in comparison with sedans, but almost all the elements are different here - a different ground clearance and a strong difference in weight also affect. But here are exactly the same motors, transmissions and the same problems. The only difference is that the car is heavier and the transmission, for example, is loaded much more, which has caused the emergence of specific difficulties that are not found on cars. Everything that has been said about the build quality of the body and interior of the flagship is valid for a large crossover. There are not so many miscalculations: poor drainage of the hatch, light skin that is easily rubbed off, and not very successful wiring to the external electronic elements. The minimum number of problems with the climate control unit and fine motor skills of the cabin.

Equally dignified are the suspensions, the car is very imposing by European standards, but the character is completely safe and predictable, and the comfort is with a margin. Against the background of overseas competitors, the car looked cheerful, and against the background of European competitors - just dignified. By the way, the former Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson is a longtime connoisseur of the XC90, he had as many as three of them, and he doesn't like cars without character. Long life for any car is a test. The crossover went through a full-fledged restyling in 2006, when a new engine appeared and the old ones were slightly updated, and then through a whole series of small improvements in 2009-2012. Since 2010, the company has already belonged to the Chinese Geely, and the lack of funds for updating the model range resulted in the next modernization of the bestseller. By the way, it is clearly noticeable that the years did not damage the car, and until the very end it remained in demand and stylish. Unless the multimedia capabilities began to lag behind even with restyling and in the end were no longer very relevant, but fortunately, this car was not loved at all for this.

In Russia, the popularity of the XC90 had another reason. The 2.5 turbo engine turned out to be the very lifesaver that provided a large flow of re-exports from the States. Indeed, after the volume of 2.5 liters, the price of customs clearance rose sharply, and the low cost of the dollar until 2008 contributed to a massive influx of cars from overseas. Here the corrosively strong, four-wheel drive and beautiful car came in handy. Due to the nuances of the customs, it was consistently cheaper than even purely American models, not to mention the initially more expensive “Europeans”.

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Technique and its features

Body

Electrician and salon

Here the four-wheel drive clutch control unit "dies" here with enviable regularity. He suffers from the seal of the incoming wiring - it is strongly recommended to remove it and coat it with sealant every few years, do not rely on a cracking compound and gum. The flooding problems of the passenger compartment control units and the CEM module are somewhat exaggerated - they fail due to corrosion, but it is not necessarily related to the flooding of the block due to drainage. Malfunctions are common on machines with perfectly clean drain holes, which spend most of their lives in dry climates. It's just that if it is wet in the inner cavity, and the tightness of the block is broken, then this will be enough.

Chassis

Another characteristic feature of the suspension is the high load on the ball joint in the front suspension, but it changes separately and is inexpensive, you just need to make it a rule to change it without waiting for a serious backlash. A small resource of steering rods and tips is inherent in cars leaving the asphalt, and they also develop a knock on the steering rack early. However, the knock usually does not progress, there is almost no backlash and the rail is not prone to leaks, and replacing the rods will not hit the budget. A small resource of the power steering pumps is typical for Volvo cars of this period, it is recommended to keep the oil level in the normal range and monitor the condition of the power steering radiator, it is located here in a very unfortunate place. In general, the suspension resource is more than decent, except that with in-line "sixes" and when installing low-profile rubber, the suspension will begin to "get" the owner. The hubs will fail not after 50-80 thousand kilometers, but after 30, the resource of the rear silent block in the front suspension will decrease to 40-50 thousand, and in the rear suspension most of the elements will not reach "hundreds."

Under normal operating conditions and with the right choice of components, the suspension lives for a long time, at least up to 150 thousand, approximately at this mileage, you need to change the shock absorbers. Previously, only the rear silent block of the A-arm in the front, ball joints and stabilizer struts were rented, you can count on their replacement with a mileage of about half that. If the rear suspension of the car has "advanced" Nivomat struts, then, most likely, it will be easier to replace them with a set of conventional springs and shock absorbers, since the cost of these struts is too high. In addition, practice shows that this does not affect controllability at all.

Transmission

The Haldex clutch in the rear wheel drive was also weak, but it does not break down very often. If you change the oil on time, then its hydraulic system normally lives up to a mileage of 200 thousand kilometers or more. Here the clutch control unit often fails, I wrote about this above. Oddly enough, the automatic transmission angular gearbox fails, it worked perfectly with two generations of Volvo cars, but lost ground on a heavy crossover. He can cut the splines in the drive, or he can turn the bearings, which entails either replacing the housing, or serious locksmith work to restore its geometry. I already wrote about gearboxes and newer ones. It is not worth demonizing them, although the resource on a heavy SUV is clearly insufficient. With a regular oil change at least once every 60 thousand kilometers, they can travel 200 thousand. If more often, and even in time to repair the weak, then even more. However, usually the owners do not bother with oil changes, additional cooling, or replacement of the "donut". The box is simply brought to overhaul with a mileage of 120-160 thousand, then it is more or less successfully repaired, and so it goes until the next global breakdown. Fortunately, they have been mastered in repair and there are enough spare parts. Valve body solenoids on the Aisin 55-51 are, besides, they can be repaired. For severe cases, there are valve body assemblies on sale.

I also wrote about the "American" - the GM 4T65 transmission, in a heavier car it flies more often and causes more trouble. And if Aisin boxes are still able to save the owner from worries for several years, then GM does not allow this. The vane pump often fails literally out of the blue - a little ATP contamination and overheating are enough. The chains are stretched, the valve body is clogged. There is also good news: there are reinforced chains, clutches, gas turbine engines and radiators for this box on sale. You just need to search a little. Instead of the next repair "as it was", make a light tuning of the automatic transmission. But the vast majority of owners are not inclined to creativity and simply invest again, scolding both the engine and the automatic transmission.

Motors

The Volvo XC90 SUV was first unveiled at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show. The model is based on the P2 platform, on which many other large Swedish-made cars are based, for example, the Volvo S80. The model has become widespread in Europe. I fell in love with the SUV and domestic drivers. The Volvo XC90 has acquired all the characteristics and properties typical of Scandinavian cars.

The car has outstanding driving ability, which is highly appreciated by domestic motorists. The dimensions and dimensions of the SUV are impressive: the length reaches 4.8 meters, and the wheelbase is an impressive 2.8 meters. At the same time, the SUV has not lost its dynamism: acceleration to 100 km / h is possible in literally 8 seconds, which, taking into account the mass of the vehicle, is considered an excellent indicator. Before purchasing a brand new crossover, produced today already in the second generation, or buying a car in the secondary market, it is best to immediately familiarize yourself with the resource of the Volvo XC90 engine.

Powertrains of an SUV off-road vehicle

The first generation of the model was equipped with a 2.5-liter 209-horsepower turbocharged engine, which included 20 valves. The engine was aggregated with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Simultaneously with the 2.5T modification, another version of the SUV was released - the T6. It included a 2.9-liter 24-valve engine rated at 272 horsepower. This engine was paired with a 4-band automatic. With the release of the second generation of the model, a 2-liter diesel Drive-E engine and a turbocharged four-cylinder analogue were added to the line of power units of the car.

The line of Volvo XC90 engines of all generations:

• 2.0-liter gasoline and turbodiesel power unit with 235 horsepower;
• 2.4-liter D5 engine with 163 hp;
• 2.5-liter engine with a capacity of 209 forces;
• 2.9-liter unit with 272 horsepower;
• 3.2-liter engine rated at 238 hp;
• 4.4-liter engine with 315 horsepower at 5850 rpm.

In 2005, the manufacturer expanded the range of engines by adding an atmospheric engine with a working volume of 4.4 liters. Already two years later, a modification of the Volvo XC90 with a 3.2-liter engine became available for those wishing to acquire a reliable SUV. The XC90's powertrains are located transversely. This is done for greater safety of the driver and passengers. In the event of a strong impact, the units go down.

Diesel engines made in Sweden are known for their reliability and unpretentiousness. The 2.4-liter diesel engine of the D5 engine family is equipped with a swirl flap, which improves the quality of combustion of the fuel-air mixture. On rare occasions, owners of an SUV with low mileage experience problems associated with possible malfunctions of the mechanism. Drivers who have traveled more than 100,000 kilometers on the odometer on the XC90 will run the risk of coming face to face with the first gaps. The swirl flap is one of the weak points of Volvo diesel engines.

Experts agree that the service life of the shutters is primarily influenced by the quality of car service. Vortex elements tend to burst, oily deposits are often formed on them, which in most cases is associated with the use of non-original low-quality engine oil.

Choke problems negatively affect the throttle response and power of the diesel engine. Most often, the dashboard prompts about the presence of a problem with the device, on which it lights up in the event of a malfunction in the "Check engine" auto system. For the rest, these are high-quality power plants capable of covering more than 380 thousand kilometers. It is very important to undergo maintenance on time, due to the regulated replacement of engine oil, air, fuel filter and other consumables, the full depletion of the resource laid down by the manufacturer is possible.

The naturally aspirated petrol engines of the Volvo XC90 are more popular among Russian motorists. The reason is obvious - they are less in demand for high-quality fuel, they are easier to repair and cheaper to maintain. What should not be neglected is the replacement of the lubricating material, which must necessarily comply with the requirements and recommendations of the car manufacturer. The resource of Volvo's atmospheric units easily reaches the milestone of 450 thousand kilometers.

But some installations have their own "chronic diseases". For example, a 4.4-liter engine loves to "eat" oil, and the owners also note the constant smudges of lubricant through the oil seals and various rubber seals. Such problems are solved quite simply. In most cases, the repair of gasoline engines is reduced to replacing the cylinder head gasket and replacing the timing drive. On engines 3.2 and 4.4, a timing chain is installed as a drive. Its resource is at least 120 thousand kilometers. In general, gasoline power plants are of high quality and unpretentious. With proper maintenance they pass 450 and more thousand km.

Owner reviews

The most criticism among the owners of the Volvo XC90 was the 2.9-liter turbocharged engine. The inline-eight is equipped with the same oil pump as in the 2.5-liter diesel engine, but the engine includes two turbines and received one extra cylinder in comparison with its less voluminous analogue. The pipes leading to the turbines are often clogged with various deposits, and the power of the oil pump itself is clearly not enough to meet all the needs of the engine system.

Ineffective cooling of the working units of the engine, as well as oil starvation are obvious reasons why this engine often fails. At the same time, the installation is aggregated with a 4-speed automatic machine of American production GM. Many car owners and car experts agree that the manufacturer did not choose the most successful layout. The problems of the 2.9-liter engine, as well as the reliability of other Volvo XC90 units, will be described in detail by the reviews of the owners.

Engine 2.0

1. Maxim, Stavropol. I own a Volvo XC90 with a T5 engine - a working volume of 2.0 liters. Car produced in 2008. The advantage of the engine is the presence of a direct fuel injection system. This is a fairly economical option, but it is hardly suitable for fans of high-speed driving. Still, a two-liter engine is not enough for such a colossus. As a worthy alternative, I see a new 3.2-liter unit. It is moderately economical, and also quite reliable. As for the installation resource. Over the entire period of operation, the SUV has covered 200,000 kilometers. I changed the timing drive, also consumables: filters, engine oil, etc. There were no problems with the car. I recommend this modification of the car to everyone if dynamism is not as important for you as saving money at the gas station.
2. Igor, Chita. I have a second generation XC90 with a 2.0 liter engine. We have already covered more than 150 thousand kilometers by car. Service was carried out exclusively by the dealer. I must say right away that maintaining such a car is not a cheap pleasure. I had to replace the constant velocity joints and rear wheel bearings. The suspension of the car, in my opinion, is unreliable, or our roads are too bad. The chassis of the "Scandinavian" is clearly not adapted to our conditions. I also replaced the front shock absorbers, the new set cost 5,000 rubles. The engine runs like a clock.
3. Vyacheslav, Moscow. As for me, this is the best engine from the line of XC90 diesel units. It is elastic, quiet, powerful - 235 horses make themselves felt. Is he reliable? I cannot answer this question unambiguously, since my SUV is practically new. During the passage of TO 2, I asked the masters about the quality of this modification, I was told that there are already copies with the new 2.0 engine that have successfully passed 150-200 tyk.

The structurally improved engine is rightly one of the best Volvo diesel units. The successful design of the installation contributes to its longer life expectancy. On domestic roads today, you can already find CX90 2.0 copies with a mileage of more than 150,000 kilometers.

Engine 2.4

1. Kirill, St. Petersburg. I have a D5244T4 diesel powered SUV. The car is reliable, and I had no complaints about the engine up to the first 100 thousand kilometers. Once, I felt that there was no traction on the car, while the turbine did not turn on in any way. As a result, I had to go for diagnostics and pay for expensive repairs. The problem was the EGR valve and the swirl flaps. Experts said that the valve did not close completely, they repaired it, but just a few months later the problem again made itself felt. As a result, I turned it off, spent a lot of money and time. Now the mileage is 230 thousand kilometers.
2. Valery, Tula. What I dislike about the XC90 modification with a 2.4 diesel engine is the weakness of both the installation itself and the aggregated box. The repair of the machine costs about $ 2,000, the oil must be filled with high-quality, original. I have had a car since 2010. I have already changed the SAS sensor (it cost 5 thousand rubles), changed the rear wheel hub, changed the timing chain. In general, there were a lot of minor repairs. Now the odometer is 160 thousand kilometers. Perhaps the engine will pass 350 thousand kilometers, but during this time you will have to go through with it.
3. Yuri, Chelyabinsk. I have a 2007 Volvo XC90, I took the car from a relative in a tidy condition. Today the mileage is 210 thousand km. I go by car both in winter and in summer. There are no complaints about the build quality of the car, as well as the reliability of the power unit. I change the oil approximately every 10 thousand mileage, fill in the original 0W30, there is no need to top up. I changed the chain and the rear hub (problem area of ​​the model). There were no more costs. In general, a good car, but extremely sensitive to difficult operating conditions.

The diesel power unit Volvo XC90 is demanding on the quality of consumables. It is necessary to undergo scheduled maintenance of the car on time in order to prevent the occurrence of serious engine malfunctions. Subject to the deadlines for passing the regulated maintenance, the diesel will travel about 350 thousand kilometers.

Motor 2.5

1. Ivan, Perm. I have a Volvo XC90 in the first generation with a B5254T2 engine, I will not say that this is the best engine in the range of "ninetieth" installations. I have been using an SUV since 2002. The total mileage today is 280 thousand kilometers. One of the weaknesses of a diesel engine is an unreliable timing belt. There were cases when he was torn after 50 thousand kilometers. Fortunately, such a fate has passed me. But I recommend that you regularly inspect the drive and make a replacement on time, it is best not to delay with this, since the quality of the belt in the Volvo XC90 really leaves much to be desired. One of my acquaintances has the same model, so he completely unscrewed the bolt of the connecting rod of the third cylinder, the second bolt broke off and the flying connecting rod pierced the cylinder. One can only guess whether this is a factory defect or inept service.
2. Nikita, Moscow. On his XC90 he drove 140 thousand kilometers. Most recently, I changed the timing belt for the second time. On average, the lifespan of an element is 70 pk. Simultaneously with the drive, he replaced the pump, the master noted the backlash, a little more and would have flowed. The new belt was supplied with the original one with the article number 8627484, tensioner, pump and rollers. Also during this time I changed the oil seals: rear camshaft, intake camshaft, front crankshaft. There were no more jobs. In general, I believe that the installation is capable of traveling 350-400 thousand km, if it is given proper attention.
3. Egor, Volgograd. 5 years have passed since the purchase of the Volvo XC90 with a 2.5-liter turbo engine. On the odometer today the mileage is 80 tyk. Power of 210 forces is enough for quiet operation of the car on city and country roads. Diesel runs rough and noisy. Even after changing the oil, the smoothness of its operation does not increase. I fill in only the original lubricant. The oil has to be topped up little by little. The dealership said that 700 grams per 1 pump is the norm. In general, the car is not bad, despite the fact that it works noisily - it goes along the highway as smoothly as a passenger car. What changed: candles, filters, timing belt, generator. I am sure it will cover more than 400 thousand km.

A weak timing belt is the main problem with a 2.5-liter unit. The owners note that the gas distribution mechanism drive is capable of failing after 50-70 thousand kilometers. It is important to monitor the technical status of the modification. Full and proper maintenance will allow the motor to work throughout the entire declared resource.

Motor 2.9

1. Yaroslav, Nizhny Novgorod. The resource of the Volvo XC90 engine is in strict correlation with quality and timely service. Many people complain about the high cost of maintenance, but I believe that the prices are quite reasonable considering the cost of the car. You can change the oil at a dealer for 10,000 rubles. Fill in only the original. Diesel is sensitive to fuel quality, I prefer to refuel with Luka diesel fuel. The oil in the box needs to be changed after 30-40 tyk. Any car operation requires costs. Costs vary depending on driving style. Potentially, a diesel engine is capable of covering about 450-500 thousand kilometers.
2. Sergey, Yekaterinburg. A great car with a Nordic character, not capricious, persistent. I got the XC90 in the maximum configuration three years ago. The car at that time was with a range of 50 thousand km. It got from the previous owner in good condition, there were no visible or invisible problems with it. The rear wheel bearing suffers from poor road quality and had to be replaced when the car traveled a total of 70,000 km. The diesel is loud but torquey. It pulls uphill, there were no problems with overcoming obstacles either.
3. Alexey, Minsk. Over the years of owning a Volvo, I have had a pleasant experience. I bought the car in Moscow a year ago for $ 35,000. Off-road vehicle produced in 2003 with 2.9 engine. The car has already covered 180,000 kilometers. Weak belt, it is often necessary to replace it at the same time as the rollers and the pump. But the dynamics of the XC90 is excellent, there is something to compare with. I used to drive a Range Rover and a Ford Galaxy, and I never got such a drive from driving. Diesel is not bad, but it requires increased attention and appropriate care.

The 2.9 engine is able to fully satisfy the needs of off-road enthusiasts. The weaknesses of the modification include an unsuccessful combination of a power plant with a "Jem" gearbox. The powerful 2.9-liter engine overpowers the weak machine with its revving speed. The box does not like off-road trips, it is sensitive to overheating. However, with a dimensional and calm driving style, a full resource depletion of 380 - 400 thousand km is possible.

Engine 3.2

1. Andrey, Voronezh. I prefer to fill my SUV with Valvoline Synpower 5W40. With this lubricant, the motor runs stably without any excesses. 2007 car, mileage 220,000 kilometers. Outwardly, the motor looks like new. No drips, working fluids are always at a normal level. There is no need to add lubricant, although, as the workshop masters say, after two hundred thousand, the engine starts to "eat" oil. In addition to replacing consumables, there were no more unscheduled work.
2. Albert, Sochi. Modification of the engine of my car B6324S, volume 3.2 liters. The installation appeared relatively recently on the world stage, and to be precise, in 2007. It was then that I acquired the "Scandinavian". This is one of the most reliable XC90 engines. The gasoline unit feels good with our AI-95. The chain operates uninterruptedly for 120 thousand km. But be sure to regularly check its condition, and also listen to the work of the "heart" of the car, if you suddenly knock, or there is a clatter - immediately change the drive. Today the odometer shows 270,000 km. A resource of 400 - 450 thousand is quite real.
3. Vasily, Moscow. If you do not know with which engine to buy a car, definitely pay attention to the modification with a 3.2-liter B6324S engine. This is a high-quality power unit, with the operation of which there will be no problems in Moscow and throughout Russia. Yes, the service is expensive, but if the deadlines are met, there will be no problems. I have already covered over 220 thousand kilometers in my car. I traveled several times on long journeys, the car never failed.

An atmospheric power plant with a volume of 3.2 liters is one of the most optimal version of the engine for operation in Russia. The owners note not only the high build quality, but also the excellent dynamic performance of the SUV modification. The resource is more than 400,000 kilometers.

Powertrain 4.4

1. Anatoly, Volgograd. Initially, I bought an SUV for my wife, but, frankly, I myself drive the XC90 with pleasure. I love the character of this car, it is powerful and assertive. Since 2005, I have changed the timing chain twice, it tends to stretch due to constant loads. I pour the oil recommended by the manufacturer 0W30. There were no particular problems with the engine. I constantly add 500 g of engine oil for every thousand kilometers. Crankshaft oil seals often leak.
2. Leonid, Krasnodar. Modification with a 4.4-liter Yamaha engine. There are a lot of negative reviews around the XC90, and all because of the bad reputation of problematic versions with 2.4 and 2.5 motors. This is an ideal car for everyday use, unless, of course, you are confused by the fuel consumption of the car. There were absolutely no problems with the engine. I adhere to a calm driving style, I have already driven 230 thousand km, during this time I changed oil seals, filters, changed the oil and the timing chain.
3. Semyon, Yegoryevsk. 2006 car, V8, 315 horses, 240,000 kilometers. The oil level keeps from changing to changing: I fill in ACEA A5 / B5S AE 0W-30 Longlife. The SUV is not offended by the dynamics - it breaks well from the spot. I traveled several times over long distances: Sochi, Rostov. Comfortable driving, moderate fuel consumption for such a colossus - 10 liters. There was nothing but replacement of consumables. Great engine in a great car.

The 4.4-liter petrol unit also has a high resource - about 400 thousand kilometers. You can extend the trouble-free life of the motor by using original consumables. It is also important to use a lubricant recommended by the manufacturer or an equivalent of an equal quality.

➖ Unreliability (multiple problems with electronics)
➖ Suspension

pros

➕ Manageability
➕ Light
➕ Ergonomics
➕ Design

The advantages and disadvantages of the 2018-2019 Volvo XC90 in a new body are revealed based on feedback from real owners. More detailed pros and cons of Volvo XC90 petrol and diesel with automatic and four-wheel drive can be found in the stories below:

Owner reviews

What's in favor of the new: A) the presence of a number of electronic systems or the possibility of their installation B) a good engine in terms of agility / fuel consumption C) Air suspension is a thing for everyone, personally I do not believe in pneuma from my experience with other brands D) Ergonomics of the driver's seat in my opinion better than the previous model.

Then one disappointment went ... A) The first thing that caught my eye was no geometric cross-country ability B) The salon became smaller in length according to my subjective impressions C) The trunk is also significantly smaller, and the width has especially suffered D) The car has just a huge amount of oak plastic.

Andrey Bragin, review of the new Volvo XC90 2.0 (320 HP) AT 2015

Video review

1. It is noisy on the slate, but there is no particular shaking! On the track, the average speed of 100-120 km / h holds the road fantastically, you practically don't feel the speed.

2. On good asphalt but winding road - a mixture of a wild mustang, which you need to hold on turns and a liner going to take off! In turns is like a glove! For direct acceleration effortlessly and almost instantly! The box is not felt (well, maybe a little on the first dash after turning).

3. The Autobahn is a fairy tale! The “dynamic” mode, which surprised me, was only 2,500 rpm at a speed of 170 km / h! at a speed of 225 km / h - 3 100!

Optics! damn ... it's a song! What the machine does not convey - "robocop" of some kind! Well, okay, when he just goes from far to near, but when he began to grab all the road signs for me and light them separately for a moment, I thought that I would just get out of the car and kiss her - this is such a class! Yes, and from the far to the near, too, not quite to the near - it remains distant and remains, only somehow sharply down and to the right ... So to speak, modestly eyes down ... and instantly into the distance! Visibility as in the day! Wide and distant illumination and another beam fumbles like a powerful flashlight following the steering wheel!

What I'm dissatisfied with: trouble with connecting to the phone, as to a modem for using the Internet. The connection is connected, but the Internet traffic does not pass. It passed once, but not the second time. The dealer will "reflash" or take something from the supplier to take the software converted and install it for me.

Victor, review of the new Volvo XC90 2.0 diesel (225 hp) AT 2015

Exterior. In my opinion, in the design of the front end, and the rear, too, Volvo has surpassed all crossover manufacturers. It looks both aggressive, and at the same time calm and pacifying. LED headlights look perfect on such a car. The car is proportional and harmonious, unlike many classmates, it does not look bulky, despite being almost 5 meters long and 2 meters wide.

The organization of space, ergonomics and even a certain revolutionary character of the interior of the car are also impressive. Only 8 buttons on the front panel! The rest is on the 9.3-inch tablet on the front. You can figure it out in 2 hours, whoever used an iPad or another tablet at least a little will grab everything on the fly.

I have my first car with air suspension. Prior to that, I went only on the spring. On the Internet, there are many claims of owners to the Volvo XC90 pneumatics. They are partially true, while the car has almost no rolls and swaying, the car holds the road very clearly. There are no nods when braking, there is generally no roll when driving. The car precisely keeps the trajectory in turns.

Volvo has an even and powerful pick up from the bottom, and you are always confident that overtaking will be safe. There is always enough power reserve. Acceleration (especially in dynamic mode) is amazing.

Review of Volvo XC90 2.0 (320 HP) AT 2015

The overall impression is good. Everything is beautiful and everything is functional. Comfort is excellent. The handling is excellent. Outwardly, everything is fine. A bunch of electronic driver assistance systems.

The reliability declared by Volvo did not quite live up to expectations. Less than six months of operation of the car (hitting 16,000 km), when one fine day the car began to refuse to drive (drop in engine speed, driving in no low gear, disconnection of the front camera and failure of the dashboard).

On the service, everything seemed to be corrected, but the sediment from this remained. I did not expect this from such "reliability".

Maxim Novikov, review Volvo XC90 2.0D (225 hp) automatic transmission 2016

Ergonomics and everything else is super! It is impossible to compare with the old one - everything was completed to the mind in the best possible way (I drove the "old" one for 7 years).

There are many advantages, namely in comparison with the system model - this is the interior and the driver's ergonomics (everything moves smoothly and confidently, especially the switches for all turns, there is a pleasant feeling of good quality).

Twin engine with double supercharging. Razor! Again, compared to the old one, he could only pull from the bottom, from the start, and at 120 km / h the dynamics are less sharp, and this one is a bullet! The steering wheel spins differently - softly and smoothly, but with a share of tangible elasticity, and this elasticity commands respect.

Once I started the car, but the instrument display does not light up, and he wants to drive the car only at such a low speed. Well, I drove to the garage, I called the officials in Krasnoyarsk, where they took it, manager Yuri (a smart guy) advised me to remove the negative terminal from the main battery (by the way, there are two of them in the new one) - well, like restarting the car (his computer). And so he did, there is nothing wrong with that - the computer is like a computer! Since then, there are no problems.

Alexey Kovalenko, review of Volvo XC 90 2.0D (225 hp) with automatic transmission in 2016

Completely new, complete package. For such a short period of operation, serious disadvantages have emerged that are incompatible with the cost of this car. The first thing I would like to start with is the suspension. Despite the various modes that are convenient to use, the suspension knocks on rebound for 8,000 km of run.

Secondly, there are faults in the electronics. For example, "no access key" despite the fact that it is located to the right of the driver's seat; "Window washer operation error", although when using it, everything works properly; “Parking brake error” and the car engages the parking brake without my command.

The most embarrassing mistake was the arbitrary opening of all car windows (except for the roof). On one of three occasions, it rained outside. As a result, the interior of the car was flooded with water.
Thirdly, when the trunk lid is automatically closed, the rumble is as if the lid of a trash can was slammed.

Review of Volvo XC90 2.0d (225 HP) AT 2016