Car appreciation... the aesthetics, the engineering, etc

Can confirm; both statements are correct.

I had a '14 Gen 1 Xc90 as when I was in the market originally the Get 2 was out of our price range. It's a great utility vehicle, perfect for a family and as you're looking for - a 7 seater when required. There are lots of all though out features that make it a good buy for a family and I understand their popularity:

1. Removable centre arm rest box for middle seat leg room on a long run
   
2. Split tail gate - if you've got a nappy wearing youngster then never unpack the boot again, just change them there and then.
   To name but a few...
   
   

But they are a thirsty beast, we're talking 30mpg everywhere, A/B/Motorway. The 2.4 diesel lump is solid though. '10 onwards is 200BHP. <'10 is 185 and somewhere there is a 163ish iteration. It's not car like, it's willowy and in no way inspiring to drive. But it'll get you there - with a stop at a petrol station on the way. I would say you want the most power you can afford in it.

Prices are also bonkers - we PXd ours earlier this year for a smidge more than we paid for it 2 years before and we'd put 30k extra on the clock. Stayed in the Xc90 family, and got a gen 2 - at the right time too as it's WBAC valuation is up £5k on the purchase price. Now the Gen 2 is a whole different beast. Car like and a lot more refined...