Ten years old and still ahead of its time
When the XC90 was launched in 2003, the flexibility of its interior put it years ahead of its time. So much so, in fact, that almost a decade on, its still one of the cleverest, most practical SUVs money can buy.
Not all options are available on the entry-level LS and mid-range LT, though the full range of safety kit is standard across the range. Its worth spending a grand extra to get the LT, though. The rear windows become electric, the air-con turns into climate control and as well as rear parking sensors, it gains alloy wheels. Move on up to the LTZ and you add bigger alloys, cruise control and smart lights and wipers. Theres also an Executive pack for the LTZ which includes sat-nav, a USB socket, heated leather seats and yet bigger alloys in effect creating a fourth model at the top of the range.
Theres a grim 1.8 petrol engine at the bottom of the Orlando range, but the smart money goes on diesel. The 2.0 VCDi unit comes in 130 and 163 bhp states of tune, both very willing. The 130 is available in LS and LT trim, while the 163 comes in LT and LTZ form. Both are available with an auto gearbox as is the 1.8, if you dont mind listening to a lot of revving.
Our test vehicle was an LTZ, but even with all the kit its cabin felt sombre in its dark colour scheme. The plastics dont feel great, and the dash layout isnt the clearest. The front seats have a huge range of adjustment, though, so its easy to get comfortable. That might be at the expense of the person behind you, but carrying five or even seven adults is feasible all the same. Just dont expect any of them to enjoy it much. For carrying cargo, all the seats fold flat to create a big loadbay floor. The middle row is only split 60:40, however, which isnt as handy as the three-way systems used by the best MPVs now. The rear seats dont slide, either, and the stowage areas up front feel old-fashioned. Youd expect more innovation from a design thats still so new.
The 2.0 VCDi is the only engine wed recommend for the Orlando. Its not the most refined in the world, but it pulls well through a lovely manual box. Happily, too, the engine calms down on the motorway, though theres still a fair bit of wind and tyre noise. Ride quality is adequate, though it can be a little unsettled on A-roads and pot holes in town can shake the cabin a bit. The upside of this is an almost sporty level of handling, with smooth steering and very little body roll. For what it is, the Orlando can actually be good fun on the road.
Even with its low list prices, the Orlando still attracts very good dealer discounts. That five-year service package sweetens the pill too. Fuel economy isnt great, though, with only the diesel manual improving on 50 mpg on a run. Insurance costs are sensible, however, and emissions are middling. But wed worry about depreciation: you dont stand to lose all that much on it in the first place, but the most desirable MPVs are likely to make more sense in the long run. Its not a car to get excited about but as a budget buy, the Orlando does have something to offer.
