The big news this year was the addition of a V8, the first in Volvo's history. The engine was developed expressly for the XC90 by Yamaha via Ford, since no existing Ford V8 was an appropriate fit for this SUV. This is because in order to maintain their own safety standards for displacement in collisions, Volvo's engines must be transversely installed.

The new trim, boasting 311 horsepower, quieted complaints from the two previous model years that the SUV was underpowered. The three existing trims were still made: the 2.5T, 2.5T AWD, and the T6.

As always, each Volvo is built with occupant safety the priority. Standard features on all XC90 trims include airbags, ABS, stability control, traction control, multi-zone climate control, daytime running lights, power-adjustable heated exterior mirrors (now with water-repellent glass), automatic transmission with manual shift function, trip computer, rain-sensing windshield wipers and fog lights. The backseat will accommodate adults comfortably, but the third seat (standard in the V8 but an option in the other trims) is best for children.

Two new metallic paint finishes were available in 2005: Magic Blue and Titanium Grey.