Model Overview: 2008 Volvo XC90

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

XC90 3.2: $36,210

XC90 V8: $48,505

XC90 V8 Sport: $49,870

Destination: $745

The XC90 V8 Sport is designed for those who desire a more athletic variant of Volvo's flagship luxury SUV. Introduced as a midyear addition to the lineup last year, the limited production XC90 V8 Sport benefits from a dynamic chassis setting, standard 19-inch alloy wheels with low-profile tires, unique appearance, interior specification upgrades and sport-tuned suspension.

"Driving characteristics are of a caliber that few thought were possible in a Volvo SUV," said Susana Johnsson, Product Manager of Special Vehicles at Volvo Car Corporation. "We have succeeded in finding a balance between driving stability and the capacity to absorb unevenness in the road." The XC90 V8 Sport gains firmer springs and struts as well as thicker stabilizer bars for a high level of stability when cornering. The steering has also been modified for quicker response.

The XC90 V8 Sport shares its high-tech 4.4-liter 32-valve engine with the XC90 V8. Fitted with continuously variable intake and exhaust valve timing (CVVT), this naturally aspirated V8 develops 311 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. of torque. Both V8 models feature standard all-wheel drive with Instant Traction^TM. This traction enhancing system employs computer-controlled Haldex AWD that instantaneously delivers up to 50 percent more torque to the rear axle only when needed, such as during takeoff. A six-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission is standard on all XC90s.

Also introduced last year was an all-new 3.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine for the XC90 3.2. This naturally aspirated powerplant replaced the 2.5T, utilizing the latest technology to maintain the same exterior dimension and fuel consumption as a five-cylinder engine. The result is 235 horsepower, an increase of 27 hp versus the 2.5T, and an identical 236 lb.-ft. of torque. It achieves performance and economy thanks to Variable Cam Timing (VCT) and Cam Profile Switching (CPS). With CPS, the intake valves can be lifted to different heights depending on engine revs and load - a lower lift for economical driving and a higher one for more power.

For 2008, the XC90 V8 gains even more upscale cues with standard Sapeli wood inlays, shift knob and steering wheel, bright headlamp, taillight and C-pillar trim and fender extensions. A new Executive Package includes 19-inch "Galateia" alloy wheels, premium soft leather seating surfaces and premium floormats. All models receive a standard auto dimming rearview mirror.

A high performance sound system comes with all XC90s. For increased listening pleasure, V8 models can be equipped with a Dynaudio® premium sound system. This includes a 6-CD changer, auxiliary input, MP3 capability, Dolby Pro-Logic II® Surround Sound, 650-watt amplifier and 12 Dynaudio speakers. A dual screen rear seat entertainment system is also available to help preserve family harmony on the road. And to help guide the driver to the target destination, the Volvo navigation system with DVD map data and remote control is another popular option.

Adhering to Volvo's core value of safety, all XC90 models are equipped with Roll Stability Control (RSC), Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Side impact Protection System (SIPS) with side airbags and Inflatable Curtains for all three rows. Volvo's state-of-the-art Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is available on all XC90s. Active Bi-Xenon headlamps with automatic level control, standard on the V8 Sport, can be specified for all other models. With this system, the headlight beams swivel up to 15 degrees for enhanced nighttime visibility while cornering.