2007 volvo XC90

When the XC90 was introduced four years ago, it changed the perception of what a luxury SUV could be. So what does Volvo do for an encore? It raises the bar for 2007 by giving the XC90 more style, refinement and performance. "We have listened closely to our customers and enhanced the XC90 to boost our competitiveness," says Frederik Arp, president and chief executive officer of Volvo Cars. "We already have a winning design, but have introduced more sophisticated lines and materials and a better driving experience - but without compromising safety."

Topping the list of changes is an all-new 3.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine. Replacing the 2.5T, this naturally aspirated powerplant utilizes the latest technology to maintain the same exterior dimension and fuel consumption as a five-cylinder engine. The result is 235 horsepower, an increase of 27 hp, and an identical 236 lb.-ft. of torque. It achieves performance and economy thanks to Variable Cam Timing (VCT) and Cam Profile Switching (CPS). With CPS, the intake valves can be lifted to different heights depending on engine revs and load - a lower lift for economical driving and a higher one for more power.