Fans of big sexy Volvos have at least two new reasons to salivate, and if the brand’s latest and upcoming model launches are any indication, now is the time for big Volvos to shine. First was the new XC90 – a gorgeous full-sized luxury SUV that’s become the most-awarded utility vehicle of the year.
With a host of new technologies for efficiency, safety and connectivity, this new executive-class sedan and embodies the brand’s transformation of late.
Coming to market shortly, Volvo stakes its claim in the premium sedan segment with the highly anticipated S90: a flagship sedan whose to-do list includes bringing signature Volvo styling and safety tech into the premium segment, with an eye for design and elegance.
The 2017 Volvo S90 will feature advances towards autonomous driving, including Pilot Assist, which can self-steer the car to maintain its position between lane markings and doesn’t need to follow another car. This technology advances on currently-available systems, and represents another step towards full autonomous drive, says Volvo. Further, the S90 debuts Large Animal Detection for the brand, which can provide early alert of the presence of a horse, elk, or moose in the vehicle’s path, possibly before the driver sees it themselves. Advanced image processing and next-generation sensors are partly to thank for the newly-added functionality.
Other high-tech tidbits include the availability of Spotify streaming audio, right from the dashboard, and the newly available Clean Zone System, which uses a high-tech cabin air filter to intercept and neutralize small particles and allergens, and flushes ambient air from the cabin in about 60 seconds when the vehicle is remotely unlocked.
S90 features a unique take on the oft-overused four-door coupe silhouette that’s proud but non-aggressive, and the model has already been widely praised for its unique exterior styling and lavish interior, itself packed with details, contrasting and layered colours and textures, and craftsmanship flaunted at every opportunity. Outside, LED headlamp accents designed to mimic the T-shape of Thor’s Hammer add a distinctive element to the S90’s lighting signature. In fact, the S90 has already earned the prestigious Production Car Design of the Year from Car Design News.
Under the hood? Volvo’s T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid system will be available, producing up to 410 hp via a 2.0L four-cylinder that’s turbocharged, supercharged and teamed up with a hybrid motor drive system. Both T5 and T6 grade models will be offered, too – with power from a similar 2.0, boosted engine in various states of tune. The T5 uses a turbocharger for about 250 hp, while the T6 offers about 320 hp, from a turbocharged, supercharged unit. Depending on the market, shoppers can specify front or all-wheel drive. Diesel power will be available, too.
“With the launch of the XC90 we made a clear statement of intent. We are now clearly and firmly in the game. With $11 USD billion of investment over the past five years we have not only reimagined what Volvo Cars can be – we are now delivering on our promise of a resurgent and relevant Volvo Cars brand,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President & CEO of Volvo Car Group.
Make no mistake: with a host of new technologies for efficiency, safety and connectivity, this new executive-class sedan and embodies the brand’s transformation of late.
Looking for something smaller? Polestar Powers Up Volvo S60 and V60
Of course, Volvo is perhaps best known for SUV and wagon models, so it’s only fitting that a wagon variant of the S90, called the V90, will become available, too. With similar options, powertrains and gadget offerings to the S90, the V90 turns the dial to 11 on versatility and flexibility in the largely-abandoned luxury wagon segment, which lately, has been emptier than Whoville on Christmas Morning.
Building on 60 years of Volvo wagons, the V90 offers up to 1,526L of cargo space, according to initial specifications. Like the S90, air suspension and a new Power-Pulse diesel engine, which uses compressed air to pre-spool the turbocharger, will be available in some markets.
Whatever your need in a big Volvo, the automaker has you covered this year, with both sedan and wagon variants coming online soon, and pricing from the mid-fifties.
You may also like
