Should you buy one?

Yes, and with confidence – the XC90 is incredibly accomplished as a premium family car, even if it’s getting on a bit now. It offers a high-tech-yet-spacious interior that’s versatile enough to carry up to seven and varying degrees of luggage, plus the commanding driving position and lengthy list of safety kit will reassure all drivers.

Volvo’s largest SUV is very easy to live with – it can get on with what you and the family want to throw at it on one day, and be a quiet and comfortable place to spend time alone.

What we like

It’s effortless to drive with smooth and powerful engines, and is a great option for long distances.

If it’s important to you, the Volvo’s image could also be a winner – it’s less brash than rivals such as the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE.

What we don’t like

It can’t compete with the interior roominess or go-anywhere skills of Land Rover’s Discovery. And the infotainment system feels old and clunky compared with more modern systems used by all of its rivals.

If you don’t cover the kind of mileage to warrant going for a diesel, the petrol B5 and B6 options look attractive, but be warned – they’ve a penchant for unleaded so expect frequent visits to filling stations.

Which XC90 is best for you?

Money no object, the T8 and its plug-in hybrid powertrain is the way to go. It can be quick when you want it to be, or be economical and quiet at the flick of a switch.

For everyone else, the diesel is a fine choice that delivers much more sensible performance for a lot less cash.

Entry-level Momentum cars come reasonably well-appointed. But the plushness of the Inscription models are worth the extra money. The sportier looking R-Design models may be a bit ‘too much’ for a typical Volvo driver.

Further reading

• Volvo XC60 review
• Volvo V90 review
• Our favourite SUVs
• Our Parkers star ratings explained