SUV

Volvo

Volvo XC90 (2002-2015)

·

When it arrived back in 2002, Volvo’s first SUV proved a massive success; long waiting lists quickly formed thanks to this seven-seater 4x4s versatility, discreet styling and keen pricing. More comfortable on the road than off it, the XC90 was one of a new generation of road-biased 4x4s that were good to drive and capable of providing ideal family transport. In the intervening years there’s been no shortage of rivals introduced, and while the XC90 is no class-leader any more, it can still make a great used buy.

Key dates

11/02: The XC90 arrives in 161bhp 2.4 D5 turbodiesel or 272bhp 2.9 T6 turbo petrol forms.

03/03: The XC90 Executive brings rear seat entertainment.

09/04: A turbocharged 2.5 petrol engine appears.

07/05: There’s an all-new 183bhp D5 engine.

07/06: An exterior refresh brings better trim materials, a 4.4-litre petrol V8 and a 3.2-litre engine replaces the previous T6 unit.

07/09:  The R-Design brings a sportier look

07/10: A 2.0-litre D5 is introduced, for better economy.

01/11: There’s now a 197bhp 2.4 D5.

12/11: Another facelift brings LED rear lights, LED daytime running lights, reprofiled bumpers and improved multi-media.

Checklist

  • The Geartronic automatic gearbox works well, but can prove weak, with cars used for towing especially vulnerable.
  • Check the state of all of the interior trim, as it doesn’t always wear very well. The leather trim gets scuffed, while the carpets get tatty easily.
  • If you’re looking at a D5, try to start the car from cold. If it struggles to fire up, it’s probably because of injector problems; repairs are costly.
  • Check the exterior brightwork hasn’t gone cloudy; some chemicals used in car washes can attack the metal and replacement is the only cure.
  • Electrical issues are becoming increasingly common on early cars. Sometimes it’s just a question of securely attaching the battery connections.

We like

  • Safety features
  • Classy design
  • Seats seven (5+2)
  • Versatility
  • Comfy seats

We don’t like

  • Woolly dynamics
  • So-so reliability
  • High running costs

 

Richard Dredge

Kia

Kia Sportage (1995-2003)

Richard Dredge ·

There are some cars that will never go down in history as all-time greats, and the Sportage is just such a vehicle. Bland in every way, it's hardly a landmark car - but it does redeem itself by offering reliability and a reasonable level of towing ability. However, refinement isn't great and it's dynamically tedious too. But with Sportages now worth little more than yesterday's newspapers, buy a good one and you can at least enjoy some top-notch reliability on a budget.

Key Dates

7/95: The Sportage arrives, in 2.0 petrol form only, with a choice of SLX, GLX or GLX SE trims.

6/96: The Executive and Executive SE join the range.

6/99: The old trim levels are replaced by S, SX and GSX derivatives.

7/00: A four-speed automatic transmission is now offered.

Kia Sportage (1995-2003) Checklist

  • With only a 2.0-litre petrol engine, the biggest problem is the Sportage's thirst.

  • Spare parts costs can be very high; if you're looking at a Sportage that needs any work, first investigate how much it'll cost to put right.

  • Front wheel bearings can be fragile, so listen for rumbling and chattering as you turn corners at speed; the noise will come from the outside of the bend as the weight is transferred to the duff bearing.

We Like

  • Reliability

  • Elevated seating position

We Don't Like

  • Lack of diesels

  • Lack of refinement

  • Lack of pace

  • Extremely dull dynamics