Volvo XC90 2020: A Fresh Approach to Volvo's Best-Selling SUV
Volvo Cars has recently introduced an updated rendition of its popular XC90 large SUV, the flagship of the brand. The new version boasts not only subtle exterior modifications but also a fuel-efficient engine variant that illustrates the company’s ongoing commitment to their electrification agenda.
Under the Hood: The Innovative ‘B’ Badge Powertrain
The updated XC90 brings to the table Volvo's pioneering kinetic energy recovery braking system for the first time. Combined with Volvo's existing internal combustion engines, this feature forms an integrated electrified powertrain, recognized by its ‘B’ badge. Notably, this electrified powertrain potentially contributes to real-world fuel savings and emission reductions of up to 15%. The brake-by-wire system, functioning in tandem with the energy recovery mechanism, exemplifies the evolution of automotive engineering by recapturing kinetic energy during braking, thereby further enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
Forward-Looking Electrification Ambitions
The emergence of the new XC90 ‘B’-badged variants signifies a substantial leap for Volvo Cars in its pursuit of electrification. These vehicles join the existing T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid electrified option, expanding the scope of electrified choices for prospective buyers of the new XC90.
Refined Aesthetics: Exterior and Interior Updates
While retaining its original award-winning exterior design, the refreshed XC90 introduces minor yet thoughtful changes such as new wheels, exterior colour options, and a contemporary grill. The luxurious interior of the XC90 continues to impress with the addition of more seating configurations. From the four-seat Excellence variant to the seven-seat family SUV, and even a novel six-seat setup, the SUV offers versatility to accommodate a diverse range of lifestyles and preferences. Furthermore, new interior materials, including a wool blend, provide further opportunities for customization.
Continuing the Legacy: A Milestone in Volvo’s Transformation
The 2015 XC90 represented a turning point in Volvo Cars' trajectory, introducing the brand's new identity encapsulated in the Thor’s Hammer headlights and unveiling its novel Scalable Product Architecture. Fast-forward to 2020, the XC90 has evolved to encompass world-first technologies and innovations launched on Volvo’s other 90 and 60 Series models in the subsequent years. The result is an SUV that's more sophisticated and has amassed over 320,000 global sales and counting.
Improved Safety: Volvo's Undying Commitment
The safety offerings of the XC90 have seen significant advancements. The XC90 now extends steering support on both the City Safety and the Blind Spot Information System, enhancing its active safety technology suite. Oncoming Lane Mitigation and autobrake-equipped Cross Traffic Alert technologies are now also available on the XC90, thereby reinforcing its position as one of the safest cars on the road today. Furthermore, the XC90 continues to be the sole system on the market to identify pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals.
Infotainment: Keeping Up with the Digital Age
Not to be overlooked, the XC90’s infotainment offerings have also kept pace with the times. The model, which was the first Volvo to integrate Apple Carplay, is now compatible with Android Auto as well. Its Sensus infotainment system has undergone multiple updates over the years, each incorporated into the XC90, further enhancing its user experience.
Final Thoughts
The 2020 Volvo XC90 represents an impressive evolution in the Volvo lineup, balancing the demands of aesthetics, technology, safety, and sustainability. With its enhanced powertrain options, improved safety features, and updated infotainment, the XC90 shows that even a best-seller can learn new tricks. However, as with all things, the proof of the pudding is in the driving. With the 2020 XC90 going into production in May and becoming available in all Volvo markets worldwide, consumers will soon have the chance to decide for themselves whether the new features live up to the hype.
-Ed
2020 Volvo XC90
