But in the end most of us will fortunately not need to experience such protective wizardry in action. Instead we'll simply ride along unaware, safely enjoying the vehicle's many convenient features, such as standard B and optional C-pillar ventilation for rear passenger comfort and one of the best optional audio systems I've ever heard. At 305-watts, the Dolby Pro Logic II digital surround sound multi-CD system is otherworldly, making the most of the latest Radio Head CD, Hail to the Thief - speaking of which security and immobilizer systems come as standard equipment.

The optional 305-watt Dolby Pro Logic II digital surround sound multi-CD audio system is among the best I've ever heard. (Photo: Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

Of course the XC90 doesn't come cheaply. Its base price is $54,995, higher than the much improved Lexus RX 330, sports car-like Infiniti FX35 and prestigious Mercedes-Benz ML320. It's also only a few thousand shy of the benchmark BMW X5. The top-of-the-line 2.5T starts at $61,995 and when fully equipped with its $850 Convenience Equipment Group that includes rain sensing wipers, rear parking aid and exterior folding mirrors, $1,100 Security Group that adds laminated side glass, mass movement sensor and inclination sensor, and $2,200 Touring Package that dresses up the XC90 with a gorgeous wood steering wheel, that phenomenal premium audio system, and sporty 18-inch "Atlantis" alloy wheels, the tally registers a lofty $64,845 - don't just add up the numbers as the various option packages drop the price a bit.

Volvo's well equipped SUV doesn't come cheap, and rings in with a base price tag higher then the Lexus RX 330, Infiniti FX35, and Mercedes-Benz ML320. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

But I'm not finished yet. A $500 subwoofer compliments the audio system, or instead a $600 3rd row air conditioning system, you can't have both. Deep tinted rear glass is $300, bi-xenon headlamps $1,000 and Volvo's navigation package $2,500, either installed from the factory or by the dealer. Only models with white and black exterior paint don't add Volvo's $550 metallic paint charge, a little steep for something the majority of its competitors throw in for free.

While Volvo made mention of a DVD player with a 7-inch roof-mounted display in its initial press material it has yet materialized. Last fall it was to appear in the New Year, then by July and, well, now they're talking about September. Sources say the delay is due to safety precautions, which falls in line with Volvo's priorities. Just the same, if it's something you're wanting neither the system nor prices are currently available.