Car Statistics: Volvo - XC90 Series 02 (3 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

Facelift sensibly opts to leave the XC90's looks pretty much unchanged. It ain't broke, so don't fix it.

Handling (3 stars)

Composed and comfortable under low-intensity use, but starts to squeal and roll if you turn up the heat.

Comfort (4 stars)

A great place to spend serious time thanks to ultra-comfortable seats and excellent cruising refinement.

Quality (4 stars)

The XC90 feels far better screwed together than some of its rivals, although cabin plastics feel a bit cheap and shiny compared to some premium-badged rivals.

Performance (4 stars)

New range of petrol engines answer criticism levelled at previous anaemic power plants. 3.2 litre straight-six is good, the 4.4 litre V8 is excellent. D5 diesel still claims the smart money, though.

Roominess (5 stars)

We can't think of a much better way to move both a family and stuff. The light, roomy cabin is a great place to spend time, with occasional third row seats giving total flexibility.

Costs (3 stars)

For years depreciation spared the XC90, but from now on it will start to bite. Other running costs are competitive against rivals, although both petrol engines are thirsty, the V8 terrifyingly so.

Value (4 stars)

Strong standard equipment gives the XC90 a strong advantage over premium-badged rivals, although it looks very pricey at the top of the range.

Stereo (4 stars)

Optional stereo upgrade sounds great. Satnav gives clear instructions but is hard to operate using controls integrated into the back of steering wheel.