XC90 - different types

[Ciaran]

Hi there

I'm looking into getting an derv XC 90 for my wife and I'm getting a bit confused with the different adverts on Autotrader.

I can see:

Two engines - 163 and 185bhp
Geartronic
Automatic
Manual

Is that right?

For example, I don't think my budget will stretch to the 185 model so I've been looking 2004 and 2005 models.

When I look at an advert that doesn't mention Geartronic but automatic the mpg is better than one with Geartronic. Are they two different things or have the dealers just put in the wrong info?

One other question, can any one tell me the difference between an "S" model and "SE model".

Many thanks.

[Theoldfm]

Hi, we have just been through the same process and have ended up buying a 2006 185bhp D5 S. The main spec difference between the S and SE is as follows~:

The SE has (over the S)

> Leather seats (cloth and half leather / vinyl)
> 18" wheels (17")
> Electric seat adjustment (manual)
> Wood trim (piano black)
> Auto dimming rear view mirror etc (!!)

We opted for the S as it was newer than equivalent priced SE's and we wanted the manual as the emissions keep it in the £230 rather than £400+ road tax category

Hope this helps!!

[Ciaran]

Thanks for that.

How do you find the manual, I've read a few posts about it being quite awkward at times?

[mondayo]

With regard to automatic vs geartronic. If it the same or similar gearbox to the V70, which I assume it will be, then the automatic is just a standard auto, whereas the geartronic has a function where you can shift the lever to one side and then operate it in tiptronic/manual form.

I have a geartronic and do use the tiptronic function a fair bit (in my V70) but it seems from what people post on here, that I'm in the minority and most just stick it in D and cruise along like that.

[Theoldfm]

Ciaran said:

Thanks for that.

How do you find the manual, I've read a few posts about it being quite awkward at times?

To be honest, it is pretty good. The only problem that I have found is that the handbrake is one of those footpedal things like on a Merc. I suppose that on an auto it is not a problem as you can leave it in Park but on a manual it is a bit of a faff.

All in all, the XC90 seems a nice, robust, big family car.

[Ciaran]

Cheers.

To be honest I'd prefer the Disco 3 but she isn't having any of it so XC90 is top of the list.

I've seen a few in England & Scotland just need to make my mind up on the spec I would like.


No manuals over here to take for a spin to see how the footbrake works unfortunately.

[Ciaran]

Well, on Sunday I placed a deposit on a facelift 2006 185 XC90. Roll on Saturday!