USED Volvo XC90 4x4 (02 - )

My car

I have covered 21,000 miles in this car. So far, the problems include a lumpy drive (which has been improved by a software upgrade), malfunctioning engine sensors and a loss of power, which cured itself in the end.

A major problem was the alarm system - after going off six times in half an hour it was traced to a wayward bonnet sensor. Otherwise, there have been no major problems and all repairs were covered by warranty.

A new set of tyres after 20,000 miles and wheel alignment set me back £670. Two services cost £338 and £336 respectively. That's not cheap, but then it's a £35,000 car - there are cheaper ways to get from A to B.

The driving experience is like taking your living room with you, minus the curtains, as you glide along in leather-cushioned comfort, and even in standard guise the stereo is exceptional. I'm 6ft 3in and the Volvo has the most comfortable seats of any car I've ever been in.

Overall, the XC90 is an immensely capable family transport with some brilliant design touches, like the drop-down tailgate. It drives the same with one on board as it does with five, six, or seven people with a full complement of luggage and sports equipment. It just gets on with the job in hand.

Sporty it isn't , but if you want sporty, buy a sports car. On the other hand, if you've got a growing family and need to carry an occasional granny plus assorted paraphernalia, get an XC90. You won't regret it.

My car

I got the big volvo in october 2004 for my wife after waving goodbye to my Merc' ML320.

I was instantly amazed at the sheer size and practicality of the interior. The boot is cavernous and the quality and ergonomics are unbeatable.

It's averaging about 29mpg driving in and out of town and nearly forty on the motorway. Unfortunately if driven hard, the mpg average can slip into the low 20s.

For a 4x4 the XC90 is not a bad drive. I handles well and the body lean is kept to a minimum. However, I feel that I really should have waited for the new 185bhp diesel as my 163 bhp diesel is a bit short on grunt. Also the steering is completely numb and without feel and the turning circle is huge.

The XC90 is amazingly refined and is such an easy car to drive. It also provides a complete peace of mind where safety is concerned for my wife and my children. Plus, it is a 4x4 that I think is pretty good looking and one without the hideous rear end of the new Land Rover Discovery. Quite simply a superb family car.

My car

Had the XC-90 for just over 3 years and 26k miles. Overall a very good ownership experience. Highly recommended.

What's good: - Incredibly practical interior with 6 folding seats. - Rear seat (2nd row) comfort: good for 2 adults or 3 children. - Dealer service. - Reasonable economy with the diesel (27 mpg in town). - Quiet high speed cruising. - Car chassis means car-like driving experience. - Clean interior style and simple controls. - Good standard sound system. - Reliable.

What's not so good: - Slow initial take-off (although our early model was improved with a dealer installed "software upgrade"). New diesel models are apparently better. - Front seats are not great for tall drivers - the base is quite short. - Not a sports car to drive, although it corners well after initial body roll. - Expensive service costs (tyres, brakes, etc). - Thick front pillars restrict visibility.

Suggestions for specification: Get the speed sensitive steering for solid highway feel.

My car

We've owned this car for 10 months now and it's been great. We went 3000 miles across Europe in perfect comfort, though the car really was packed. There have been moans that the XC90 is not as comfortable as our previous V70 Cross Country, but the car looks great - it's dark green with cream interior and lots of wood - very classy!

It's nice and practical, but that does, however, mean we have to cart the in-laws round in it! In all, it's a great car, but with frightening fuel economy - just 18mpg!