Positioning:
The 2007 Volvo XC90 established Volvo's presence in the premium mid-size luxury SUV segment, emphasizing safety, comfort, and Scandinavian design. It competed with vehicles like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and Lexus RX.
Strengths:
Renowned for its exceptional safety features, comfortable ride, and spacious interior, particularly the availability of a third-row seat. Strong emphasis on family-oriented utility.
Weaknesses:
Fuel economy could be a concern, especially with the larger engine options. Some critics noted less engaging driving dynamics compared to German rivals. Interior materials, while good, might not feel as premium as some competitors in certain areas.
Safety:
Standard safety suite including Rollover Stability Control (RSC), advanced airbag systems, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. Optional Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).
Comfort:
Spacious cabin with optional third-row seating, supportive seats, and a refined ride quality suitable for long journeys.
Utility:
Versatile cargo space with fold-flat second and third rows, and a split tailgate for easier loading.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, power transfer unit (PTU), driveshafts, differentials.
Chassis:
Braking system (ABS, EBD), steering system, suspension system (front and rear).
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn.
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate control (HVAC), seats (adjustment, heating), infotainment system (audio, navigation - if equipped), keyless entry, power tailgate, sunroof, interior lighting.
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, ISOFIX child seat anchors, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS - if equipped), Roll Stability Control (RSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSTC).
Operation:
Vehicle startup and shutdown, driving controls, gear selection, parking brake operation, using climate control, operating infotainment and dashboard functions.
Maintenance:
Checking and topping up fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, tire rotation, replacing wiper blades, bulb replacement (exterior/interior), air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement.
Emergency:
Changing a flat tire (jack points, spare tire location), jump-starting the battery, towing procedures, emergency warning triangle/vest location, emergency assistance contacts.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and messages, basic diagnostic information for common issues (e.g., starting problems, overheating).
Security:
Alarm system operation, key fob functions, immobilizer system.
Depth:
Comprehensive user-level information for safe and proper operation, routine maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not contain in-depth mechanical repair procedures or diagnostic codes typical of a workshop manual.
Engine Type:
3.2L Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
3192 cc (3.2 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 96.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.8:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, variable valve timing (VVT).
Horsepower Net:
235 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque Net:
236 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Tank Capacity:
70 Liters (18.5 US Gallons)
Engine Option 2:
4.4L V8 (For earlier models or specific markets, though 3.2L I6 is common for '07)
Type:
6-Speed Geartronic Automatic Transmission
Type:
N/A (6-speed automatic was standard across most trims)
Geartronic:
Driver-selectable manual shifting mode.
Drivetrain Configuration:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Instant Traction™
Transmission Fluid Type:
Volvo 1161540 (or equivalent DEXRON-VI)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 9.0 Liters (When drained and refilled)
Length:
4797 mm (188.9 inches)
Width:
1894 mm (74.6 inches)
Height:
1745 mm (68.7 inches)
Wheelbase:
2885 mm (113.6 inches)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 200 mm (7.9 inches)
Seating Capacity:
5 or 7 passengers (depending on configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 1233 Liters (43.5 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 375 Liters (13.2 cu ft) (with 7-seater)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2000-2100 kg (4400-4600 lbs) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 2700-2800 kg (5950-6170 lbs)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5 Stars (for driver and front passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5 Stars (for front and rear passengers)
IIHS Crash Test Ratings:
Good (Frontal Offset and Side Impact)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA).
Rollover Protection:
Roll Stability Control (RSC)
Driver Assistance:
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) - Optional
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver/passenger), Side airbags (front seats), Inflatable Curtain (IC) airbags (covering all three rows), Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters in all seating positions.
Child Restraints:
ISOFIX attachment points for child safety seats in the second row.
Audio System:
Volvo Premium Sound System with CD player, AM/FM radio. Optional CD changer and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. AUX input likely present.
Navigation:
Optional DVD-based navigation system with color screen.
Blind Spot:
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) - an early radar-based system that warns of vehicles in blind spots.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system for mobile phone integration.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control with cabin air filter. Optional rear climate controls.
Seats:
Power adjustable front seats with driver memory, optional heated front and second-row seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 20,000-30,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (for iridium-tipped plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (The 3.2L I6 uses a timing chain, which is designed for the life of the engine but should be inspected periodically).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (API SN or better, ACEA A5/B5 recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.7 Liters (7.1 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
Volvo Premium Coolant (Green) or equivalent G48 (ethylene glycol based)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 10.5 Liters (11.1 US Quarts)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Power transfer unit (PTU) leaks or failures, ABS control module issues, sunroof drains clogging leading to water ingress, power steering pump leaks, various electrical gremlins, potential transmission control module (TCM) issues.
Maintenance Tips:
Regular fluid checks and changes are crucial. Pay attention to any warning lights or unusual noises. Ensure regular inspection of the AWD system components, especially the PTU.
Heritage:
Volvo has a long-standing reputation for safety and innovation, dating back to its founding in 1927. This ethos is deeply ingrained in all its vehicles, including the XC90.
First Generation:
The first-generation XC90 (2003-2014) was a landmark model for Volvo, introducing their SUV offering. It was built on a platform shared with the Volvo S80 sedan.
2007 Updates:
The 2007 model year saw the introduction of the new 3.2L inline-six engine as a replacement for the older 2.5L inline-five and the 2.9L inline-six. It also received a styling refresh, including revised front and rear fascias, and improved interior features.
Manufacturing Location:
Torslanda Plant, Gothenburg, Sweden