I just picked up an XC90 R Design a few weeks ago and so far love the vehicle. My only concern is being able to drive on the local beach in Duxbury, MA. The dealership told me it shouldn't be a problem if I air down the tires but after reading some posts I'm now concerned about doing this. Does anyone take their vehicle on the beach?? The clearance won't be an issues but could I damage the AWD system?? Any input would be appreciated.

Thanks!

 

It depends on the sand. Daytona's OK, but the sugar white sand of northwest Florida is very different. Big mudders with a lift kit should help.

 

Go ahead and drive on the sand. Depending on how soft it is you might get stuck. Or you might not. Not the vehicles fault and you aren't going to break the car unless you try to get out when stuck.

My experience is that beach sand with normal street tires is no problem at all. Heck, I used to drive my 960 on the beach in Homer Alaska all the time and that is rear wheel drive. Never got stuck once.