Weight distribution affects handling

At the specified curb weight your vehicle has a tendency to understeer, which means that the steering wheel has to be turned more than might seem appropriate for the curvature of a bend. This ensures good stability and reduces the risk of rear wheel skid. Remember that these properties can alter with the vehicle load.
The heavier the load in the cargo area, the less the tendency to understeer.
See also:
Suspension
Rear suspension
Individual rear wheel suspension with longitudinal
support arms, double link arms and track
rods.
Front suspension
Spring strut suspension with integrated shock
absorbers and con ...
Driving Impressions
The gentle but capable XC90 is solid and refined and handles more like a taut
European sedan. It reacts masterfully on twisting roads and functions with
precise control.
Expect a smooth and soli ...
Sport
In this mode, the vehicle's body sway is
reduced during cornering and steering
response is more immediate. The transmission
shifts up at higher rpm for sportier driving. The
indicator light in ...
