2009-2011 XC90 "To buy or not to buy?"

[dickedm]

Currently my wife and I own a 2004 S40 T5 (newer style body, not the boxy version). It has 111,500 miles on it currently. We are expecting a 2nd child in August. My wife has mentioned several times that she would like a larger auto to carry around our family. She really likes the XC90 (3.2L FWD) and for pricing reasons I like the XC60. Here are my questions:

1. Are there any major things to look for in a used '09-'11 XC90?

2. What mileage would scare you off of an XC90?

3. Is there a problem with buying a '09-'11 XC90 with 100,000 miles?

4. Which is the better vehicle overall? XC90 or XC60?

Thank you for your advice.

[MISSYGO98]

Did you ever get any answers!? I'm pondering the same. Always had the 2.5t wagons & want the xc90.

[scot850]

The 09- models have better drive-trains, but only engine choices are 3.2 i6 and V8 to -2011. and then 3.2 i6 until they stopped making them. I prefer the 2.5T engine over the 3.2 which is theoretically more powerful but is not one of Volvos finest moments. As the 3.2 is a non-turbo Volvo made the mistake of not making the torque come in low down so you have to push the engine harder in the 3.2 to get momentum. Best thing is to drive one to see what you like.

From what I have read, the V8 is fairly reliable and not much worse than the 3.2 in gas mileage. It is of course more complex and expensive to service.

2.5T was only made until 2006 from about 2004. Problem I have is the dilemma of the better engine, but now most have huge mileages on the 2.5T, but the less reliable drive-train (rear axle bearings/suspension/prop-shafts/transmissions) or buy the newer vehicle with better drive-trains and lesser engine. You pay your money and make the choice.

There is the other option of a FWD XC90 then there are less drive train issues to deal with!

Neil.