30 - The Oakville Beaver, Wednesday October 8, 2008 www.oakvillebeaver.com 2009 Volvo XC90 Continued from Page 28 includes sunroof (a $1,500 option on the XC90 3.2). With the V8 engine, the five-seater starts at $63,595, while the seven-seat version is $65,895. All four versions can be equipped with the R-Design package- the 3.2 getting 19-inch wheels and the V8, 20-inchers. Options include a navigation system ($2,500) and dual screen rear entertainment system ($2,250) plus a variety of other packages. See Volvo's Web site for full details. On the road, the V8 engine in the XC90 performs well, exhibiting strong acceleration from a stop and plenty of power for merging into high-speed highway traffic or overtaking slower vehicles. Unlike many Volvos, the XC90s use regular fuel. Fuel economy is rated at 16.2 L/100 km (17 mpg) city and 10.6L/100 km (27 mpg) highway for the V8. The 3.2 gets 15.0 L/100 km (19 mpg) city and 10.0L/100 km (28 mpg) highway. The ride is firm and comfortable, while the cabin is quiet. For a big vehicle, the XC90 has a car-like feel to it, although you know you're in a tall vehicle, with a bit of body roll on hard cornering. On the highway, it feels solid and stable. The second row seating is ideal for two, but three people can fit in a pinch. There's lots of legroom and the seats are like all Volvo seats- comfortable. This is a versatile vehicle with the back seat(s) folding down to make a flat floor. While price is an issue, as it is with anything in the premium SUV class, the 2009 Volvo XC90 is a solid contender in the class, offering a great combination of attractive styling, luxurious appointments and the safety features Volvo is known for. The luxurious interior is well designed with excellent fit and finish. Gauges and controls are conveniently located and easy to use. The R-Design interior, shown above, features badging on the steering wheel and special stitching on the leather seating surfaces. OAKVILLE HONDA 500 Iroquois Shore Rd., Oakville 1-800-915-0430