Hi, I'm brand new to this board, but I drive a '98 S90, which has been a great car and rock-solid dependable. It's getting a little long in the tooth (170,000 miles) and I've been thinking of upgrading to an '03-'07 XC90. They seem like a great bargain used, you can get one with 30,000 miles or so for about half of sticker price.

I drive quite a bit for work (mostly highway miles), and I have an auto allowance and company gas card. Thus, fuel economy and acceleration/performance are not as important to me as dependability.

I know that the XC90 came with a number of powertrain options. I've driven a T5 and a T6 and frankly didn't notice much difference in performance. The T5 seemed to have quite a bit less engine noise in the cabin as well. I know that there is a non-turbo straight 6 available as well as a V8, and each motor comes with a different transmission.

Here are my criteria, in order of importance:

1. Dependability
2. Cost of maintenance/repairs
3. Quiet ride
4. Acceleration/Performance
5. Fuel economy

Based on the above, what is the most "bulletproof" drivetrain option. I'd prefer an AWD, but would rethink that if having AWD dramatically impacts reliability.

By an order of magnitude - the (Yamaha) V8 is the XC90's most satisfying and reliable drive train. I have 51,000 miles on mine (so far) without a single problem. My son is a Volvo mechanical at a dealership and tells me that the V8's indeed seem to have virtually no problems.

Just my take. YMMV.

V8 for sure, the trans is great too.

Well, the V8 motor sure seems to be getting good reviews. I haven't driven one of those yet.

I did have a long conversation the other day with the owner of the place that I bought my S90 from. He was very high on the 2.5T FWD combination. Apparently, he said that there is some bearing(?) in the AWD drivetrain that is a weak link and when it goes it can take the tranny and driveshaft with it. He said that the FWD traction control is awesome and you don't really need AWD, even in winter snow and ice.

Thanks for the input and keep 'em coming.

I have an '05 V8 (purchased Jan "06). About to break 50k. No issues whatsoever. I also do mainly highway miles. I average 17-21 mpg. Love the 6-speed! Have to burn 91+ though :(