2006 Volvo XC90 Ocean Race Edition

This exceptionally eye-catching edition contains all the winning attributes of the other XC90 trims plus a lot of unique cosmetic appeal. Yes, it still presents every one of the invaluable safety features and creature comforts, but it turns even more heads.
The Volvo Ocean Race is an around-the-world competition among sailing yachts. This Cadillac (please pardon the phrase) of yachting races began in 1973 as the Whitbread Round the World Race, and Volvo took over the coveted sponsorship contract in 1998.
So happy were they after achieving this coup that they wanted - no, needed - to release a fleet of commemorative utility vehicles. The first Volvo Ocean Race Editions came out in 2002 in the form of V70s and SC70s. Today the V70 edition is still made, but the SC70 has evolved into the XC70, and now, of course, the XC90 joins them.
The premise, according to Volvo marketing material, is that this line of special editions is designed for "an active lifestyle, adventure, and passion." In other words, this is not your ordinary soccer mom's SUV. The cars are share the same paint color, Ocean Blue, which was developed exclusively for them. Pretty silver moldings and aluminum roof rails accent the look, as does the special Ocean Race emblem on the front doors.
You'll have to hop inside to get the full picture: the interior is made to impress with its blue-tone aluminum inlays that complement the exterior. But they didn't stop there. The upholstery fabric is designed to reflect yachting attire, in blue of course (were you expecting Nantucket Red?).
It's powered exactly the same as the regular V8 trim, but the Volvo Ocean Race Edition throws in a few more bones as standard equipment: 18-inch wheels, a premium 12-speaker audio system (with 6-CD in-dash changer), and leather seats. Sure, the higher price reflects the upgrades, but that big dose of extra style is in itself worth it for many.