The Volvo XC90, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2007 and produced through 2012, represents a significant entry for the Swedish automaker into the burgeoning luxury SUV market. This generation, powered by a 3.2-liter inline-six engine producing 243 horsepower, aimed to blend Scandinavian design principles with practicality and safety – hallmarks of the Volvo brand. Sold primarily in Europe and North America, the XC90 offered a compelling alternative to established German and American competitors, distinguished by its spacious seven-passenger configuration and focus on family-oriented features.
Volvo XC90 (Facelift 2007) 3.2: A Detailed Overview
The XC90 facelift, released in 2007, brought subtle but important updates to Volvo’s popular SUV. These changes included revised front and rear styling, an upgraded interior, and enhancements to the engine for improved efficiency and performance. The 3.2-liter engine became the standard powerplant, replacing earlier options and providing a balance of power and refinement. The model continued to emphasize Volvo’s commitment to safety, incorporating advanced features for the time, and offering a comfortable and versatile driving experience.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 2010-2012 Volvo XC90 3.2 lies a naturally aspirated 3.2-liter inline-six cylinder engine, designated the B6324S5. This engine produces 243 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3200 rpm. The engine’s configuration, with a bore of 84 mm and a stroke of 96 mm, results in a displacement of 3192 cm³ (194.79 cu. in.). A compression ratio of 10.8:1 and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder contribute to its performance. Fuel is delivered via multi-port manifold injection. Power is transmitted to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.5 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 9 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 210 km/h (130.49 mph).
Design & Features
The Volvo XC90 is a five-door sport utility vehicle (SUV) designed to accommodate up to seven passengers. Its exterior styling reflects Volvo’s Scandinavian aesthetic, characterized by clean lines and a focus on functionality. The facelifted model features a revised grille, headlights, and taillights, giving it a more modern and refined appearance. Inside, the XC90 offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with high-quality materials. The seven-seat configuration provides versatility for families, with the third-row seats folding flat to maximize cargo space. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 249 liters (8.79 cu. ft.) with all seats in place to a maximum of 1837 liters (64.87 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features are a prominent aspect of the XC90, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a robust safety cage construction. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4807 mm (189.25 in.) in length, 1936 mm (76.22 in.) in width, and 1743 mm (68.62 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2857 mm (112.48 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volvo |
| Model | XC90 |
| Generation | XC90 (facelift 2007) |
| Type | 3.2 (243 Hp) AWD Automatic 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 20.6 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 24.8 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 8.8 km/l |
| CO2 emissions | 265 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 243 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 3200 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B6324S5 |
| Engine displacement | 3192 cm3 (194.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.7 l (10.25 US qt | 8.53 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 249 l (8.79 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1837 l (64.87 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4807 mm (189.25 in.) |
| Width | 1936 mm (76.22 in.) |
| Height | 1743 mm (68.62 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2857 mm (112.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1634 mm (64.33 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1624 mm (63.94 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm (8.58 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.7 – 13.3 m (41.67 – 43.64 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 25° |
| Departure angle | 28° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Volvo XC90 (facelift 2007) 3.2 offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a safe, spacious, and refined SUV. While not the sportiest vehicle in its class, it prioritized comfort and practicality, making it a popular choice for families. Its blend of Scandinavian design, robust engineering, and advanced safety features cemented its position as a significant contender in the luxury SUV segment.
