Volvo's XC90 is the Swedish automaker's first ever SUV offering. The XC90 is similar in size and purpose to the Volkswagen Touareg, Porsche Cayenne, and Infinit FX. The launch of the mid-size crossover also marked Volvo's first production use of its 4.4 liter Yamaha V8 engine.

The V8 model delivers 311 horsepower at 5850 rpm and peak torque of 325 pound-feet at 3900 rpm. The inline-six cylinder model offers 235 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 236 pound-feet of torque at 3200 rpm. It is offered with all-wheel-drive only.

The XC90 carries five passengers in its standard configuration, and can hold seven people with the optional third row of seating.

When it was unveiled, the XC90 was billed as the safest SUV on the market. Volvo went as far was demonstrating the crossover's exceptional rollover safety by using a specially designed catapult at its safety development center to do a live demonstration of the XC90's roof strength. Members of the press were on hand, and the XC90 tumbled four times on its roof during the test, with little or no intrusion into the passenger compartment.

In addition to an immensely strong body structure, the XC90 has a number of other safety features, including Volvo's WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System), SIPS (Side Impact Protection System) and IC (Inflatable Curtain) airbag. The Inflatable Curtain has been extended so it also protects passengers in the third row of seats. All seven seats are equipped with three-point inertia-reel seat belts, belt pre-tensioners and head restraints.

Volvo also developed various information systems designed to help the driver while on the move. One such system is IDIS (Intelligent Driver Information System), which can delay incoming phone calls in complex traffic situations that require the driver's undivided attention. Meanwhile, a Blind Spot Information System registers if another vehicle is in the offset rear blind spot alongside the car and alerts the driver via a visual signal.

Active bi-xenon headlamps are offered with the XC90, providing increased visibility on dark, windy roads. Moving headlamp beams that follow the curvature of the road help maintain visibility in these situations.