Volvo Cars took a stab at entering the now popular sports utility vehicle segment and its entry to this competition is the Volvo XC90 which would be racing with other vehicles like the BMW X5, the Acura MDX, and the Infiniti FX to the top spot. This vehicle has actually been in production since the year 2003 and it is known as a crossover sports utility vehicle.

Known as a midsize luxury crossover sports utility vehicle, the Volvo XC90 has been actually built on the P2 platform that is also used by the Volvo S80. This platform is also used by other larger Volvo vehicles as well. According to Volvo Cars, the Volvo XC90 is their top selling vehicle in the United States. This vehicle's sales take up around twenty five percent of their total sales in that area. Rumors have it that another update on the Volvo XC90 would be coming next year in 2007. This vehicle has already proven itself worthy for it has already bagged the North American Truck of the Year award in 2003 as well as the Motor Trend magazine's Sport Utility of the Year for the same year.

The present year's version of the Volvo XC90 has been made available in two trim levels which are the 2.5 T and the V8. Both hold four doors and could take in up to a maximum of seven passengers inside its luxurious cabin. The Volvo XC90 looks more as a European vehicle rather than as an American or Japanese creation. In fact, some critics even find this sports utility vehicle to be more attractive that the already luxurious BMW X5. And yes, it is also much cheaper than the mentioned vehicle.

During its introduction, the Volvo XC90 2.5 T trim level comes equipped with a standard 2.5 liter I5 turbo engine producing 208 horsepower. It can achieve 17 mpg in the city and some 23 mpg for the highway. To assist in the excellent delivery of the vehicle, there is a five speed automatic transmission system made standard. As per the other trim level, the V8, this comes with a 4.4 liter V8 engine that could produce some 311 units of horsepower. Driving through the city would give you the statistics of 15 mpg while as per the highway would give you 21 mpg. Standard for this trim level is a six speed automatic transmission system with overdrive.

parts BMW ### Tom Bailey is a consultant for one of the country??s leading auto parts stores. He is also an editor of a reputable publishing company in his area. He is currently based in Atlantic City, New Jersey with his wife and 3 children.