My wife went to look at it the other day. Overall I think it'll be a winner for most people. It really is a great package except for two things, the engines and price.

The 5cyl model does get good mileage (upto 25highway) and even qualifies as ULEV, however, performace is most likely going to be terrible. Wonder if the 5cyl can use regular unleaded. Every article I read loves to talk about great mileage (while referencing the 5cyl model) and then posts performance numbers for the T6. The 5cyl does get a 5spd auto transmission though. However, I need to tow 3000lbs. I just don't see the 5cyl 208hp motor handling that. I wonder how well it even handles it's own 4500lbs.

So the T6. Mileage is not good and when you factor in that most likely it'll need premium, it's just looks even worse. And then it only gets a 4spd.

Then I decided to compare the engines and towspecs between the XC90 and the Acura MDX. The MDX weighs basically the same as the XC90. The MDX comes with a 260 hp 6cyl and they only rate it for 3500lbs towing. Now that makes more sense. And it gets slightly better mileage.

And actually, now that I compare the two, the MDX looks pretty good too. Almost the same length, a little wider and lower. Wheelbase is slighly shorter, probably because of V6. Much lower base price than XC90. However, I can't stand the looks of the MDX. No doubt, however, that MDX is probably better quality and more reliable.

As usual, no 'perfect' model out there yet.

pat