2003 Volvo XC90 D5 AWD review from UK and Ireland

Transmission Service required: Disturbing! This seems to put the car into a 'safe mode', but returns to 'normal' when the engine is turned off and restarted.

Rear wiper.

Unarguably a very safe car. The big Volvo gives the driver a sense of security and safety without the sense of being behind the wheel of a very large vehicle.

The seats are comfortable and can be programmed to suit three driver's positions. Two heat settings are also available... so you can cook your backside according to your taste, 'medium rare or well done'.

Beware of blind spots. The front pillars are very thick, as are the centre pillars. This undoubtedly is something to do with the cars incredible strength.

The third row of seats are leather and are surprisingly comfortable. and there is enough room, even when they are in use, to squeeze a moderately sized dog in the boot.

The car handles well enough for a 'high' vehicle, and the clever gyroscopic sensors prevent, nasty, rollover inducing moments in a crisis. I wouldn't push the system too hard though.

The XC90 will happily barrel along at a 100mph, but the engine is underpowered and overtaking is a chore and not a pleasure. The more powerful 185bhp is undoubtedly better.

Storage. You can fit a subcontinent in back. The tailgate is split in a similar way to the Range Rover, but in a more practical way, and so 'reaching' into the boot space is less arduous.

The economy is very good indeed for such a large car - 34mpg combined.

The sound system is awesome and the interior smart and uncluttered. Most of the controls are easy to reach, but the foot operated 'hand brake' takes some getting used to. The light switches are a bit 'tucked' away and difficult to reach, especially on the move.

Over all, an excellent and handsome car if a little uninspiring.