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2006
Volvo XC90

Starts at:
$35,640
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 2.5L Turbo Auto
    Starts at
    $35,640
    17 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    -
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.5L Turbo AWD Auto
    Starts at
    $35,640
    17 City / 22 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    -
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.5L Turbo AWD Auto w/Sunroof/3rd
    Starts at
    $35,640
    17 City / 22 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    -
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.5L Turbo AWD Auto w/Sunroof
    Starts at
    $35,640
    17 City / 22 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    -
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.5L Turbo Auto w/Sunroof
    Starts at
    $35,640
    17 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    -
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.5L Turbo Auto w/Sunroof/3rd Row
    Starts at
    $35,640
    17 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    -
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.5L Turbo AWD Auto w/Sunroof/3rd
    Starts at
    $36,075
    17 City / 22 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas I5
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.5L Turbo Auto w/Sunroof/3rd Row
    Starts at
    $36,075
    17 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas I5
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.5L Turbo AWD Auto
    Starts at
    $36,075
    17 City / 22 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas I5
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.5L Turbo Auto w/Sunroof
    Starts at
    $36,075
    17 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas I5
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.5L Turbo AWD Auto w/Sunroof
    Starts at
    $36,075
    17 City / 22 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas I5
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2.5L Turbo Auto
    Starts at
    $36,075
    17 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Turbo Gas I5
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4.4L V8 AWD Auto
    Starts at
    $45,840
    15 City / 21 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    -
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4.4L V8 AWD Auto
    Starts at
    $46,400
    15 City / 21 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4.4L V8 AWD Auto Ocean Race Edition
    Starts at
    $49,860
    15 City / 21 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V8
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90 2006 Volvo XC90

Notable features

Roll Stability Control
Available V-8
Five- or seven-passenger capacity
Side-curtain airbags
AWD standard with V-8

The good & the bad

The good

Reputation for safety
Handling
Base-model ride comfort
Instruments

The bad

Step-up height
Meager third-row space
Over-left-shoulder visibility
Windshield-pillar grab handles

Expert 2006 Volvo XC90 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Bob Golfen
Full article
our expert's take

For 2006, Volvo addresses the only persistent gripe connected with its luxury sport utility vehicle: modest engine power.

A powerful and refined V-8 engine is now optional for the XC90, putting this fine craft on equal footing with high-end SUVs from Mercedes, BMW, Infiniti, Lincoln and Cadillac.

The 4.4-liter, 311-horsepower engine is the first V-8 ever offered by Volvo and available only in the largest vehicle ever offered by Volvo. It replaces the previous 268-horsepower inline six, while the base model’s 2.5-liter turbocharged four remains in the lineup.

In this global marketplace, the engine comes to the big Swede from the other side of the world. Yamaha, the Japanese manufacturer of motorcycles and musical instruments, builds the compact V-8 for Volvo.

This is not the first time Yamaha has supplied a V-8 for Ford, which owns Volvo. The high-performance Taurus SHO of the early 1990s received its muscle from a similar Yamaha V-8. The Japanese company currently supplies high-revving four-cylinder engines for the performance versions of Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe.

Naturally, the V-8 comes at a premium, adding nearly $10,000 to the price of the turbo-four XC90, although that includes a passel of luxury features and standard all-wheel drive. The new engine vastly widens the appeal of the Volvo for U.S. luxury drivers, who are accustomed to the silky muscle of powerful V-8s.

Newfound performance, excellent drivability and, of course, Volvo’s longtime emphasis on safety moves XC90 to the head of the class.

PERFORMANCE: The V-8 engine may be small (gearhead note: 4.4 liters is about 270 cubic inches) but has plenty of power, making this gentle giant feel light and lively. This advanced 32-valve engine includes variable intake and exhaust timing for power over a wide range of rpm.

Acceleration is strong and smooth, with a subdued growl under the hood. Freeway cruising is seamless.

XC90 delivers relatively good fuel mileage, considering the SUV’s 4,600-pound bulk and is rated by the EPA as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle.

The six-speed automatic was usually on the ball, though sometimes shifting with a noticeable thunk. Like the engine, the transmission is made in Japan.

DRIVABILITY: Handling, steering and braking are all top drawer, especially for a heavy, high-profile vehicle. The XC90 challenges both BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class in every aspect of drivability.

Electronic safety includes four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with antilock, brake-force distribution and brake assistance, Dynamic Stability Traction Control and Roll Stability Control.

STYLING: XC90 looks suitably muscular without macho affectations. Some people thought it looked too bulbous, more like a minivan than an SUV.

INTERIOR: Comfortable, accommodating and stylish and with a high level of standard safety features, including full airbag and side-curtain protection, seat-belt pre-tensioners and whiplash protection.

Leather seats, moonroof and a host of luxury gear come standard. XC90 seats seven, but the third row of seats is strictly for kids.

The dashboard controls are still somewhat haphazard and weird looking.

BOTTOM LINE: The V-8 option enhances an already superb SUV. The pricing is competitive, undercutting BMW and Mercedes with the same level of style, features and performance.

Pricing

Vehicle type: Seven-passenger, four-door SUV, all-wheel drive.

Engine: 4.4-liter V-8, 311 horsepower at 5,850 rpm, 325 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm.

Transmission: Six-speed automatic.

Wheelbase: 112.6 inches.

Overall length: 188.9 inches.

Curb weight: 4,610 pounds.

EPA rating: 15 city, 21 highway.

Highs: Engine refinement, lush interior, overall drivability.

Lows: Teeny rear seat, transmission thunks, haphazard controls.

Base price: $45,840.

Price as tested: $49,480.

OPTIONS

Touring package, with alloy wheels, premium audio, wood steering wheel and trim, leather shift knob, $1,795.

Climate package, with heated front seats, headlamp washers, $675.

Metallic paint, $475.

Shipping, $695.

2006 Volvo XC90 review: Our expert's take
By Bob Golfen

For 2006, Volvo addresses the only persistent gripe connected with its luxury sport utility vehicle: modest engine power.

A powerful and refined V-8 engine is now optional for the XC90, putting this fine craft on equal footing with high-end SUVs from Mercedes, BMW, Infiniti, Lincoln and Cadillac.

The 4.4-liter, 311-horsepower engine is the first V-8 ever offered by Volvo and available only in the largest vehicle ever offered by Volvo. It replaces the previous 268-horsepower inline six, while the base model’s 2.5-liter turbocharged four remains in the lineup.

In this global marketplace, the engine comes to the big Swede from the other side of the world. Yamaha, the Japanese manufacturer of motorcycles and musical instruments, builds the compact V-8 for Volvo.

This is not the first time Yamaha has supplied a V-8 for Ford, which owns Volvo. The high-performance Taurus SHO of the early 1990s received its muscle from a similar Yamaha V-8. The Japanese company currently supplies high-revving four-cylinder engines for the performance versions of Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe.

Naturally, the V-8 comes at a premium, adding nearly $10,000 to the price of the turbo-four XC90, although that includes a passel of luxury features and standard all-wheel drive. The new engine vastly widens the appeal of the Volvo for U.S. luxury drivers, who are accustomed to the silky muscle of powerful V-8s.

Newfound performance, excellent drivability and, of course, Volvo’s longtime emphasis on safety moves XC90 to the head of the class.

PERFORMANCE: The V-8 engine may be small (gearhead note: 4.4 liters is about 270 cubic inches) but has plenty of power, making this gentle giant feel light and lively. This advanced 32-valve engine includes variable intake and exhaust timing for power over a wide range of rpm.

Acceleration is strong and smooth, with a subdued growl under the hood. Freeway cruising is seamless.

XC90 delivers relatively good fuel mileage, considering the SUV’s 4,600-pound bulk and is rated by the EPA as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle.

The six-speed automatic was usually on the ball, though sometimes shifting with a noticeable thunk. Like the engine, the transmission is made in Japan.

DRIVABILITY: Handling, steering and braking are all top drawer, especially for a heavy, high-profile vehicle. The XC90 challenges both BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class in every aspect of drivability.

Electronic safety includes four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with antilock, brake-force distribution and brake assistance, Dynamic Stability Traction Control and Roll Stability Control.

STYLING: XC90 looks suitably muscular without macho affectations. Some people thought it looked too bulbous, more like a minivan than an SUV.

INTERIOR: Comfortable, accommodating and stylish and with a high level of standard safety features, including full airbag and side-curtain protection, seat-belt pre-tensioners and whiplash protection.

Leather seats, moonroof and a host of luxury gear come standard. XC90 seats seven, but the third row of seats is strictly for kids.

The dashboard controls are still somewhat haphazard and weird looking.

BOTTOM LINE: The V-8 option enhances an already superb SUV. The pricing is competitive, undercutting BMW and Mercedes with the same level of style, features and performance.

Pricing

Vehicle type: Seven-passenger, four-door SUV, all-wheel drive.

Engine: 4.4-liter V-8, 311 horsepower at 5,850 rpm, 325 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm.

Transmission: Six-speed automatic.

Wheelbase: 112.6 inches.

Overall length: 188.9 inches.

Curb weight: 4,610 pounds.

EPA rating: 15 city, 21 highway.

Highs: Engine refinement, lush interior, overall drivability.

Lows: Teeny rear seat, transmission thunks, haphazard controls.

Base price: $45,840.

Price as tested: $49,480.

OPTIONS

Touring package, with alloy wheels, premium audio, wood steering wheel and trim, leather shift knob, $1,795.

Climate package, with heated front seats, headlamp washers, $675.

Metallic paint, $475.

Shipping, $695.

Available cars near you

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
Less than 5 years / less than 80,000 miles
Basic
5 years / unlimited miles , upgradeable up to 10 years
Dealer certification
170- plus point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.6 / 5
Based on 48 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.7
Interior 4.5
Performance 4.5
Value 4.5
Exterior 4.6
Reliability 4.6

Most recent

  • First car that feels like my home

    You don't take the car with you, the car brings you, you sit in the chair, not on it. First two gears are short, which confuse people behind you, expecting to be faster away at traffic lights. But from 3rd gear on it just goes. Its like sailing a ship, tiny bit waggly but smooooooth. I own a D5, it's my second home.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    10 people out of 10 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Love My XC90

    I purchased this vehicle new in March 2006 with 2 miles on it, paid $42k, color Blue Magic. This is the vehicle I have owned the longest in my life. It has not gone out of style. It has held up incredibly and it only in the last six months have I had to have some work done on it, the positive crank valve, other than tires, oil changes, one battery and wiper blades. I am constantly asked by strangers is that a new vehicle. My mechanic at the Volvo dealer always asks me to sell it to him when I’m in for an oil change! I dread the day that I have to give it up however I’m hoping to drive it up to 400K miles! I love my bluebird of happiness!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    14 people out of 14 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Very reliable, turbo performer. 8 passengers AWD

    Great comfort and capacity. Feels safe in any weather. Volvos just keep going. Seats are great. Very practical car. Full size SUV that gets 18mpg average with city and highway driving.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    7 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Never buy a used Volvo

    Bought this car on a Wednesday and 3 days later on Saturday the oil pump went out and cracked the bell housing on the transmission
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 1.0
    Interior 1.0
    Performance 1.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 1.0
    Reliability 1.0
    7 people out of 14 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Most reliable car I've ever owned

    This is a beautiful, comfortable car that runs like a dream I absolutely love this car and got an excellent deal from Seaview Buick GMC. I am so happy I found this car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best Car Ever

    I have never owned a Volvo so was so absolutely delighted to find out how nice it is. It handles like a dream, is solid, dependable, and beautiful. I absolutely love this car!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great car that keeps on going

    Well appointed, well organized, smooth ride. Great handling with large cargo carrying capabilities plus towing. Will operate off-road with AWD. Fuel economy is average. Missing are factory-installed roof rack crossbars.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • My First Volvo and It Won?t be my Last

    Stylish, functional, smooth ride. Economical and a pleasure to drive. Very responsive with a small turning radius. Dark blue with black interior is sharp and sexy. You?ll look great driving in this SUV.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • 137,000 Great miles

    Bought a 5 cyl 2006 with 23,000 miles in 2008. Replaced it in 2017 with a 34,000 mile 2008 V8. Would have driven it another 100,000 if i didn't stumble on the 08. Keep up on the maintenance and it will run and run and run. I don't know how much safer or if it is safer than the competition. I like it because it is a car, and it handles more like a car than a truck. She likes it because she sits higher than most other crossovers, and it rides like a car with her bad back.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Very practicle

    Only thing I hate about it is the radio because you can?t upgrade it with an after market model and the fact that every Volvo i?ve ever owned I can?t get the heat at both the windshield and my feet
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • XC90 owner

    I absolutely love this SUV and it will eventually make a great 1st car for my 15 year old son. He can have it when mom is done
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best car I have owned

    Car has plenty of room and handles like a dream. Corners like a sports car. Has plenty of room for hauling or 7 people. Rear seats have limited leg room.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2006 Volvo XC90?

The 2006 Volvo XC90 is available in 3 trim levels:

  • 2.5L Turbo (12 styles)
  • 4.4L V8 (2 styles)
  • 4.4L V8 Ocean Race Edition (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2006 Volvo XC90?

The 2006 Volvo XC90 offers up to 17 MPG in city driving and 23 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2006 Volvo XC90?

The 2006 Volvo XC90 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2006 Volvo XC90 reliable?

The 2006 Volvo XC90 has an average reliability rating of 4.6 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2006 Volvo XC90 owners.

Is the 2006 Volvo XC90 a good SUV?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2006 Volvo XC90. 87.5% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.6 / 5
Based on 48 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.7
  • Interior: 4.5
  • Performance: 4.5
  • Value: 4.5
  • Exterior: 4.6
  • Reliability: 4.6

Volvo XC90 history

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