Volvo has unveiled the new XC90 which is set to go on sale next month offering CO2 emissions as low as 60g/km.
Sporting a new sleeker design, the next-generation begins a new model offensive for the Swedish firm which will see every current Volvo replaced within the next four years.
New from the ground up, the XC90 has been built on an entirely new platform. It’s not only longer, wider and lower than the model it replaces but will also be available with seven seats as standard.
New 60g/km Hybrid
Set to rival the BMW X5, Audi Q7 and Land Rover Discovery, the new XC90 will be available exclusively with the 2.0 litre four-cylinder Drive-E engine range. Company car drivers can choose between all-wheel drive, front-wheel drive or petrol-hybrid versions.
The hybrid pairs a turbocharged petrol engine with a 79bhp electric motor which produces an impressive 394bhp, while CO2 emissions are low at 60g/km meaning a five percent BIK tax band for the current tax year.
Diesel options will be available too, a D5 twin-turbo with 223bhp and a lower-powered (187bhp) D4 turbo-diesel. All engines will be mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Safety first
Volvo is claiming that the new XC90 will be the safest car the company has produced to date and takes another step towards the manufacturer’s ultimate goal that no-one will be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo car by 2020.
A whole host of safety features are included as standard including the City Safety pack, which uses advanced technology to detect not only other cars on the road but pedestrians and cyclists too.
Making their debut in the XC90 are two completely new systems; Run-off road protection which applies extra steering if the car is about to leave its lane unintentionally and an Auto brake system which automatically brakes the car if the driver turns in front of an oncoming car.
New technology
The big design changes from the outside include a more curvaceous shape, a new grille design and some very nice T-Shaped LED headlamps.
Inside, the new centre console dominates the dashboard and is packed full of the latest connectivity technology including internet-access, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems. Other functions including sat-nav, climate-control and Bluetooth are also available via the new centre console.
Sat-nav is now standard across the range as well as keyless entry and an automatic tailgate.
There are three trim levels to choose from, Momentum, R-Design and Inscription, with a range of options and packages to choose from including an upgraded sound system and a large panoramic sunroof.
Spacious and luxurious, the XC90 also debuts Volvo’s next-generation seats which are exceptionally comfortable with ventilation and massage functionality – ideal for company car drivers with a long commute each day.
The new XC90 will go on sale shortly after the Paris Motor Show next month (with the front-wheel drive version on sale at a later date) with first deliveries expected in May 2015. Prices are expected to range from £40-£60,000.
Parkers will be among the first to drive the new XC90 before it goes on sale – check back soon for our full review.
