Like the model it replaces, the freshened 2007 XC90 can be equipped to carry five or seven passengers, the latter version featuring a two-person third-row bench that Volvo claims is suitably comfortable for occupants up to five-feet, six-inches tall. The seat is above the rear axle to increase safety in side-impact accidents. Serving to protect lives in and out of the XC90 are three innovative systems: active bi-xenon headlights, a park-assist system, and a blind spot information system that uses cameras located in the exterior mirrors to warn of vehicles traveling beside the XC90 that remain out of sight.

Under the hood of the all-wheel-drive Volvo XC90 is the familiar 4.4-liter V8, still rated at 311 horsepower at 5,850 rpm and 325 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,900 rpm. That’s the big dog, good for a 0-62 mph run of 7.3 seconds. Gone for 2007 is the 2.5-liter, turbocharged five-cylinder engine, replaced by a 3.2-liter inline six pushing 235 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 236 lb.-ft. of twist at 3,200 rpm. Volvo estimates the six will get the 4,600-lb. SUV to 62 mph in about 9.5 seconds. Also laid to rest is the five-speed automatic transmission mated to last year’s boosted motor, dropped in favor of the six-speed automatic already coupled with the V8.

Photos courtesy of the manufacturers