XC60 comfort compared to XC90

[Tannaton]

Originally Posted by Kev0607

I understand.

The newer Volvo's just aren't built the same. I've had multiple mechanics say the same thing. The older 5 cylinder ones were far better engines in terms of reliability and longevity, but at the sacrifice of refinement and fuel economy. I assume your XC60 is a 4 cylinder D4?

One thing that makes the XC90 so comfortable in my opinion is the size of the tyres. They have a big sidewall, which absorbs bumps more. I don't think the XC60, being smaller and not as high up, has the same option for such a big sidewall on the tyres.

I may be wrong on that, but whenever I see an older XC90, the tyres alone make them look comfortable! Pity about the high road tax on the older diesel XC90's though. I see its creeped up to £415 a year now.

The base to mid range models of XC90 have the same tyres as most XC60 - 235 60 18. But the XC60 has less suspension travel and stiffer suspension etc.

There is a stretch of rural road near me that is very undulating, in the XC60 is handled well but at speed just jiggled about all over it. At speed, the XC90 glides over it like a magic carpet. I've driven Touaregs, Jags, Mercedes, etc. over that road and nothing comes close to how smooth the 90 is.

[Kev0607]

Originally Posted by Tannaton

The base to mid range models of XC90 have the same tyres as most XC60 - 235 60 18. But the XC60 has less suspension travel and stiffer suspension etc.

There is a stretch of rural road near me that is very undulating, in the XC60 is handled well but at speed just jiggled about all over it. At speed, the XC90 glides over it like a magic carpet. I've driven Touaregs, Jags, Mercedes, etc. over that road and nothing comes close to how smooth the 90 is.

The XC60 doesn't really interest me... it looks squashed and doesn't seem particularly roomy. The XC90 seems to have much more space, but its a far bigger vehicle (that's to be expected). In saying that, I haven't driven one.

Prices are high for 90's though. Then there's the extra fluids that need to be changed at some point relating to the AWD system (more expense come service time), fuel economy and higher road tax that sways me away from them. I don't need a 4wd vehicle, but I do like the presence they have and the higher driving position is nice.