My husband & I leased an '08 XC90 (3.2 AWD) in Nov (2 yrs) with the understanding from both the Salesman & Owner's Manual that the vehicle is capable of towing our boat (<3500#'s incl trailer). I paid extra for the tow package to be installed...
Unfortunately we have had nothing but problems with the XC90's traction and AWD capabilities when towing the boat, specifically getting the vehicle with boat successfully up the boat-launch ramp. Virtually every attempt to pull the boat out of the water results in the XC90's tires spinning furiously (only the front tires!!) and the vehicle's nose "wagging" from side to side as it attempts to get a grip.
When I took the XC90 to the local Volvo dealership to help with the problem, their service asst told me that I should consider new tires; something appropriate for mud/snow, etc. So, after purchasing four new nubby tires ($690), we thought the problem would be solved! \
But NO! The last two attempts to pull the boat up the launch ramp resulted in the same things: tires spinning, and no real wheel drive occurring, plus the added bonus of being very embarrassed at the pathetic yuppy-SUV!
NOTE: this has happened at three different launch ramps with different inclines ranging from very slight slope to a more steep slope - but everyone else seems to do OK!
Help!
Any suggestions?

 

Hi, I'm sorry to hear about your problems with your "new" XC90. Sounds to me like there is something wrong with the transmission or allwheel drive system. The dealer should have advised you to get theV8 for towing (higher torque). Assuming nothing is "wrong" with the vehicle, any chance the dealer will let youtry a V8 or a different 3.2 for a day to compare (try towing your boat) and possibly trade up?