On the 4x4 debate - is this just as 'bad'

[handlemecarefully]

I have a vague commitment to environmental issues (recycle, buy biodegradable bin bags from Smile Child etc ) so need to ask about this:

volvo xc90

Is it as bad as the other so called 'chelsea tractors'? I think it does about 30 miles to the gallon (but may have got that wrong). Is that bad?...or reasonable?

Would it be as dangerous to pedestrians?

We are attracted to it because it has a good build quality (nice solid safe vehicle in terms of occupant safety), has 7 seats all of which except the driver seat can be reclined to totally flat (giving a van type environment to transport bulky items if required), and rather superficially, I think it is so much more aesthetically appealing than a people carrier...

Is diesel more environmentally sound than petrol?

If this really is a damaging vehicle, please suggest something comparable (lots of space, good build quality and attractive) as a more pc alternative

Having been badly let down by our VW touran I want a Volvo next.

Don't even care of it's big and I prefer small if I can, it's just got to be a Volvo. (Have 4 kids to transport at the weekend, before I get flammed by the anti 4 X 4 lot).

Ooops killed that then...

If you must by a 4x4, please look at the Honda CR-V - it's the safest 4x4 for any pedestrians you run over. Scores better in crash tests than any other 4x4. Volvo Xc90 is behind it, but still scores two stars (out of possible 4), making it not as extraordinarily dangerous as most other 4x4s. Nissan x-trail also scores two stars. Other 4x4s are very, very dangerous and, if you are buying a car, it's worth avoiding them, I would have thought.

I've got a feeling Hondas usually do well on reliability as well.

PMSL @ Jools methane/sponge !!!!!!!

Oh I particularly like it in the blue..

silver cars are statistically safer than any others

Had a quick recce in the school car park yesterday, not a single volvo xc70/90. I've deffo got to have one now!

btw..

Have three kids
One is called Isabelle, so close with the isabella
No to pashminas, Clarins and Tuscany though

I reckon hmc has run off to hide, cowardy custard.

Hey hmc have toy bought the car yet? Which one did you get?

I'm back - forgot to check this thread sorry.... I decided in the end to purchase the Volvo XC90 because actually it seems it scores 2 stars on pedestrian safety which is the best of all 4x4's, plus most family cars score this (eg ford focus is 2 stars)...so I can buy it with a relatively free conscience...

Perhaps I'll plant a few trees in my back garden so that it is a carbon neutral purchase decision

...(wonders to self - have I got the terminology right there, will anyone know or care what I am talking about......)

Just re-read Edams post about the Honda being better than the XC90! - how did I miss that one?

Are you getting it though that web site you linked to or going though a local dealer? If you use the web site let me know how it goes cos our local dealer is a rip off merchant and I'm a bit chicken about buying big stuff like cars on the net.

Local dealer Passionflower - dh has discussed it with a few local dealers to see what they can do and has opted for the best offer

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