As a midsize luxury crossover vehicle, the Volvo XC90 is in a competitive segment which includes some of the top models produced by Cadillac, BMW, Mercedes, Lexus, Acura and Volkswagen. But what the XC90 has going for it is its renowned Volvo quality, reliability and safety, features the crossover has in abundance.

First introduced in 2002, the Volvo XC90 has recently completed an important makeover, incorporating important changes to keep the crossover relevant as well as appealing to buyers. Should you consider the Volvo XC90? I'll let you decide that after we take a closer look at this important model.

Plenty To Like About This Crossover

So what does the Volvo XC90 have going for it? First of all, it is Volvo's top-selling vehicle in the United States. The crossover is based on the same platform underpinning the S80 sedan, the flagship Volvo model. Second of all, the crossover offers seven passenger seating and has a very competitive starting price of about $37,000. Lastly, the XC90 features a design that is attractive inside and out.

In the cabin, the XC90 offers good looks plus all of the amenities expected to be found in a luxury crossover model. Easy to read displays, an uncluttered dash, premium sound system, dual zone air-conditioning, bolstered seating and a sensible center stack are just a few of the XC90's attractions. Offering a smooth ride, good handling and a safety cage environment, the XC90 performs well in all road conditions thanks to its all wheel drive technology.

No German car for Pope Benedict XVI as the Catholic church leader received a new Volvo XC90 that has been custom tailored for his personal use. During a June 28 ceremony at the Vatican, the Pope was presented with the keys to the SUV. The V8 version vehicle is dark blue with a light interior and Volvo officials say the car, like every Volvo XC90, is designed for safety with features like ROPS (rollover protection system).

Press Release

Volvo Cars presented His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, with one of its Sport Utility Vehicles. The keys of the car have been delivered to the Pope in the Vatican, on Wednesday June 28th, with a short ceremony after the Papal Audience.

On Wednesday June 28, His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has received the keys of the Volvo XC90 that Volvo Car Corporation has presented him with. The delivery of the keys to the Pope has taken place in the Vatican, during a short ceremony after the Papal Audience.

To represent Volvo Cars, Gerry Keaney, Vice President Volvo Car Corporation, Marketing Sales and Service, Pascal Bellemans, President Volvo Auto Italia, and Michele Crisci, General Manager Volvo Auto Italia attended. The Volvo XC90 delivered to the Pope – and fitted for His personal use – is a V8 version. It is a dark blue XC90 with light interiors.

"We are absolutely happy and proud of the opportunity we had to give a car to the Pope. Safety has always been a no-compromise must for Volvo; no doubt, our strong commitment to safeguard lives could not get a higher and more touching recognition", said Pascal Bellemans, President Volvo Auto Italia.