Engine: 4.4 liter V8

Engine Options: 208-hp 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-5; 315-hp 4.4-liter V8

Transmission: 6-speed automatic with manual mode

Transmission Options: 5-speed automatic with manual mode; 6-speed automatic with manual mode

Standard Safety Equipment: anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and electronic brake assist, daytime running lights, dual threshold front airbags, dynamic stability and traction control, side-impact airbags, inflatable side curtain airbags (for all rows), three-point restraints for all seating positions, whiplash protection seating, roll stability control, rollover protection system

Optional Safety Equipment: cargo cover, power rear door child safety locks

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

Assembled In: Sweden

Model Tested: Volvo XC90 V8 ($45,840)

Standard Equipment: fog lamps, front skid plate, power-adjustable and heated exterior mirrors with memory, power glass moonroof, rear wiper/washer, roof rails, 12 beverage holders, three 12-volt power outlets, audio and cruise controls on steering wheel, auto-dimming interior rearview mirror, dual-zone climate controls, flat-folding front passenger seat, grocery bag holders in cargo area, illuminated vanity mirrors, leather seating, 8-way power-adjustable driver and front passenger seats with memory, power windows, trip computer, third-row leather seat with audio and climate controls, second-row booster cushion youth seat and self-leveling rear suspension

Options as Tested: Touring Package with 18-inch alloy wheels ($1,795) which includes premium sound system with 6-cd in-dash changer, wood inlays and steering wheel, and leather gearshift knob. Climate package ($675) includes heated front seats, headlamp washers, interior air quality sensor and rain-sensing wipers; reverse warning system ($400)

Destination Charge: 695

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: all-wheel drive

Horsepower: 311 @ 5850

Torque: 325 @ 3900

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 16/20

Wheelbase: 112.6 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 188.9/74.7/70.2 inches

Track Front/Rear: 64.3/63.9 inches

Turning Cycle: 40.0 feet

Seating Capacity: 7 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 39.7/55.4/41.0 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: 38.9/53.6/36.4 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 35.5/na/30.1 inches

Trunk Volume: 93.2 cubic feet

Payload:

Suspension, f: independent MacPherson strut, stabilizer bar

Ground Clearance: 8.9 inches

Curb Weight: 4610 pounds

Towing Capacity: pounds

Tires: 235/60R18

Brakes: disc/disc with ABS, EBD and Brake Assist

Fuel Capacity: 21.1 Gallons