2012 Volvo XC90 review
Volvo XC90 highlights
Customer rating
(not yet rated)
Pros
- Cheaper than similar-size European luxury SUVs
- Smooth-riding and easy to drive
Cons
- Age counts against it, particularly in the infotainment system
- With the V8 dropped, the sole six-cylinder feels underpowered
Mileage (EPA estimate)
16 city, 23 highway, 18 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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2012 Volvo XC90 feels dated, but it's still worth a look
Volvo's successful formula for the XC90 mixes SUV looks with a dash of minivan-like practicality. The thing is, the Swedish firm introduced this first-generation XC90 back in 2003, which is a long time in the automotive world. Competitors have caught up, and cars like the Buick Enclave and Ford Flex offer all the practicality of the 2012 XC90, if not the prestige of the Volvo brand. Volvo, however, doesn't quite reach the lofty standards of German rivals from Audi, BMW, or Mercedes-Benz, and the XC90 is priced accordingly.
Power comes from a 3.2-liter six-cylinder gasoline engine with 240 hp. Volvo's decision to drop the optional V8 after 2011 is regrettable because the six-cylinder isn't particularly powerful or economical, especially when mated with optional all-wheel drive. Not only that, but Volvo chose not to fit the aging XC90 with the latest active driver-assist aids offered elsewhere in its lineup. The interior is nicely finished and comfortable, but the infotainment system again betrays the XC90's advancing years. Volvo offers two models, the 3.2 and R-Design, with trim choices of Base, Premier Plus, and Platinum available with either. All XC90s come with a decent level of standard equipment, and the Platinum is positively luxurious. 2012 brings the addition of Bluetooth® streaming capability across the lineup. The XC90 has its strengths, but newer alternatives are likely to appeal more.
All Volvo XC90 years
What is new for the 2012 Volvo XC90?
- The 3.2 R and V8 trims have been discontinued for 2012.
- XC90 trims have been upgraded with Fold-Away Third Row and 20 Inch Plus Wheels as standard equipment this year.
- Rear Seat Heaters, Remote Start, and Running Boards features are now available as options on select trims.
- The 3.2 trim now comes with 4WD/AWD as standard equipment.
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
The 2012 Volvo XC90 is not yet rated. Help future customers learn about a car you've owned and write a review.
RepairPal gave the Volvo XC90 an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Volvo XC90 17th out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Volvo XC90Volvo XC90 features and specs
3.2 2WD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- CD Audio
- Cruise Control
- Fold-Away Third Row
- Leather Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Side Airbags
- Sunroof(s)
- Third Row Seat
- Traction Control
- 4WD/AWD
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Front Seat Heaters
- Full Roof Rack
- Navigation System
- Rear Entertainment System
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear View Camera
- Remote Start
- Running Boards
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
2WD
Engine size
3.2L
Engine type
Gas
Transmission
Automatic
2012 Volvo XC90 FAQ
The 2012 Volvo XC90 3.2 offers 16 MPG City and 23 MPG Highway. It is important to remember factors such as driving style, weather conditions, and the use of features such as Eco mode can impact fuel efficiency.
The Volvo XC90 received a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the Volvo XC90 as 16 out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUV
The 2012 Volvo XC90 has received an average 5.0 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2012 Volvo XC90, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2012 Volvo XC90 Reviews.
The 2012 Volvo XC90 has a maximum towing capacity of 3970 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Here is what's new for the 2012 Volvo XC90:
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- Remote Start
- Rear Seat Heaters
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