2002 Volvo Xc in Chattanooga, TN - $4,991

Billed by the automaker as one of the most important product launches in its 75 year history, Volvo takes the wraps off of its newest creation -- the XC 90. If the initial response from the first owners are any indication of the model's potential in the United States, then they better boost output.

Someone on Volvo's corporate staff shared a story about a customer who recently purchased a new XC 90. While he was driving down the highway, a vehicle crossed the median and struck the customer's XC 90 just in front of the A pillar. Of course the force of the crash sent him out of control and he flipped the vehicle three times. Once the vehicle came to a stop, the customer got out of his wrecked Volvo, unhurt and used his cell phone to call his local dealer to buy another one on the spot.

Volvo is the only automaker where a potentially bad experience can actually turn out well. The XC 90 is as luxurious as it is safe. After spending some time with one driving north on US 101 near San Francisco, I am convinced that it is the best vehicle that Volvo has ever offered for sale to the American marketplace.

Offered in 2.5T and T6 models and front-wheel drive or electronically controlled all-wheel drive, the XC 90 was designed to compete in what the industry calls the medium premium SUV segment. Competitors include the Lexus RX 330, BMW X5 and Acura MDX to name a few.

The XC 90 is propelled by a choice of two different engines -- a 2.5L inline five-cylinder with a light-pressure turbocharger and a 2.9L inline six-cylinder with twin turbochargers. Power is transferred to the pavement through either a four-speed or five speed electronically controlled automatic gearbox -- both equipped with Geartronic.

The Volvo SUV has a narrow task in the years to come. The automaker wants the XC 90 to accomplish the following in the marketplace: attract customers who have previously rejected the Volvo brand by adding SUV excitement and desirability; attract customers who have rejected SUVs due to safety concerns; attract customers who want seven forward facing seats in a Volvo; retain present Volvo customers considering an SUV and conquest Asian brand upgraders and domestic switchers.

To Volvo, I say -- mission accomplished. The automaker has an annual production run of 50,000 planned worldwide with about 65 percent or approximately 32,500 units bound for the United States.

On the road, the Volvo SUV is a joy to drive. Quiet, solid, responsive and reassuring, it is like driving a luxury car. The package of power and performance works wonders. The all-wheel drive running gear does not negatively affect the response of the vehicle.

The XC 90's impeccable road manners start with its world-class chassis. The automaker's P2 Large car platform serves as the basis for the SUV, appropriately reinforced for the added rigors of an SUV. The suspension hardware is attached directly to the subframe in order to largely filter out road and transmission noise from reaching the passenger compartment.

The XC 90 employs a four-wheel independent suspension system featuring MacPherson struts, coil springs hydraulic shock absorbers and a stabilizer in front, multi-link suspension with coil springs, hydraulic shock absorbers and stabilizer bar in the rear. P225/70R16 tires are standard on the 2.5T, P235/65R17 tires are standard on the AWD T6.

Inside the cabin, driver and passengers alike are spoiled and coddled in comfort, convenience and the last word in safety. The dashboard is attractive, with displays and controls easy to read and use. Utilizing a cockpit forward design methodology, Volvo added more interior space within a compact package. The Volvo SUV is a mere 3.4 inches longer than the V70 wagon. Seven people will enjoy riding in the XC 90 for extended periods of time without discomfort.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 112.6; overall length: 188.9; width: 74.7; height: 70.2 -- measurements in inches

Engine: B5254T2 2.5L inline five-cylinder light-pressure turbo -- 208 hp at 5,000 rpm and 236 lbs-ft of toque at 1,500-4,500 rpm; B6294T 2.9L inline six-cylinder twin turbo -- 268 at 5,100 rpm and 280 lbs-ft of torque at 1,800-5,000 rpm

Transmission: GM4T65 four-speed automatic with Geartronic; AW55 five-speed automatic with Geartronic

EPA fuel economy: 2.5L five-cylinder -- 18 city/24 highway; 2.9L six-cylinder -- 15 city/20 highway -- Both engines require the use of premium unleaded gasoline.

Maximum cargo capacity: 93.2 cubic feet

Maximum towing capacity: 5,000 pounds

Safety features

Volvo safety is legendary, and the XC 90 is no exception. Safety features include the following items: side-impact protection system (SIPS), dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, inflatable side curtains, whiplash protection seating system (WHIPS), roll stability control (RSC), dynamic stability traction control, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock and electronic brake assistance, electronic brake distribution, daytime running lights, remote keyless entry and front skid plate.

Optional safety equipment includes reverse sensing system and navigation system.

Warranty

Basic: 4 year/50,000 mile, limited

Roadside assistance: 4 year/50,000 mile, 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2003 Volvo XC 90 SUV starts from $33,350 for the 2.5T and $39,975 for the T6. Destination charges add $660.

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