2005 Volvo XC90 V8: In The Autoblog Garage Day 2

Sitting inside the Volvo XC90 is like being in the automotive

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Sitting inside the Volvo XC90 is like being in the automotive
version of the W Hotel. The SUV is both modern and luxurious, yet it also makes the money you paid for it seem well
worth it. And unlike a weekend at a W Hotel, you’ll be pampered in this baby for at least a few years.

My design sensibilities always lean toward the modern look: steel, black leather etc. But the better half is more
Crate & Barrel-ish. That means the house is much more contemporary than my personal taste. I don?t complain since I
think it makes a very nice look for a home. After testing the S40 sedan and now the XC90, Volvo might make a wise
choice for a person that doesn?t get to express their taste in design around the homestead. 

The leather seats are comfortable and pleasing to the touch. While the wood and leather steering wheel is a bit too
cold on winter mornings, it is a very classy instrument that is the perfect size. The metal accents on the door handles
and elsewhere actually feel like metal. That is a definite rarity in these days of silver painted plastic.
Environmental and stereo controls are extremely straightforward and easy to use, although I wouldn?t mind the
sculptured look of the S40s center stack here too. I guess you can?t have everything.

Remember to click on the images for larger versions and to check out Day 1 in the XC90 go
here.