XC90 buyers help.

[SafetyNut]

Hi all,
Planning on buying a new (to me :D) XC90.
I have settled on an 04 – 06 AWD. Still trying to decide between the 2.5 and the V8 I have done lots of research and test drove them both. I like the peppiness of the V8 but can’t overlook the long history of reliability on the TI5. Only concern seemed to be a bit of sluggishness when doing freeway passing. But I have spent hours reading reviews and that seems to be the consensus.
Did not find much about towing though, any input on that would be great.

My main question is about options? I’m definitely getting the 3rd row seats, and I know about the DVD and Nav (nice but not necessary. More to break)
What other options were there? Tow package maybe?

Thanks,
Jeremiah

[SafetyNut]

Update. I ended up with a 06 2.5T.

[XCMark]

Hi,
Am in the market for an XC90 to replace our XC70 2.5T. I am avoiding the T6 (not much good to say about it according to the forums) and have driven some V8's. But I am already familiar with the 2.5T but don't know much about the 3.2. Is this the better model than the 2.5? Any issues?

[ARCHITECT]

Hi xcmark
i am the owner of an 2008 xc90 3.2, normally aspirated engine (no turbo). 25,000 km. With no problem what so ever. The 3.2 is 238 hp. Compared to 208 h.p of the 2.5t, therefore it is more powerful, but it lacks the rush of the turbo 2.5t. Considering the hefty weight of the xc90, you are better of with the more powerful engine obviously, especially because they have virtually the same fuel consumption.
The 2.5t is a 5 cylinder in line volvo engine which was introduced on the 850 volvo sedans back in the early ninties. Very reliable. My other car is a 1998 volvo s70t equipped with the 2.5t engine. 75,000 km. Took a lot of beat, drives like new.
The 3.2 is a new 6 cylinder in line volvo engine that is highly more sophisticated considering the technology advancement since the 90s.
Both cars have the trouble free aisin warner transmission compared to the ill fated gm tranny that you will find on the t6. However the 2.5t is a 5 speed compared to 6 in the 3.2.
The 2.5t is out of production since 2006 it was replaced by the 3.2 in 2007 on. I personally wouldn't buy a car that is no longer available. Not to mention the many upgrading the xc90 went through since 2007.
If i were you, i will opt for the premium sound system with 12 dynaudio speakers, a system un matched by any other make or model. Good luck on your purchase
great choice.