The Volvo XC90 has been round lengthy sufficient to construct a fame of its personal. Since 2002, it has carried the duty of being the model’s family-sized SUV, and every replace has added somewhat extra polish with out straying from its transient. At Babylonstoren close to Paarl final week, the newest model was launched to South Africa, and the message was considered one of continuity.
The exterior beneficial properties barely cleaner strains and a sharper grille, however it stays a recognisable silhouette. Inside, the cabin has been reworked for a relaxed atmosphere. The dashboard runs extra horizontally, new inlays make use of recycled supplies, and ambient lighting provides environment at evening. Practical tweaks embrace extra console storage, one other cup holder, and a relocated wi-fi charging pad that frees up the principle storage space.
The modifications are most noticeable within the tech. Volvo’s newest infotainment system now lives on a bigger 11.2-inch display, with built-in Google providers, wi-fi Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and over-the-air updates to increase performance over time. In Plus trim the XC90 comes with a Harman Kardon audio system, whereas the Ultra specification brings a Bowers & Wilkins setup.
My joyful second within the automobile got here with connecting Android Auto seamlessly – an indication of actual progress of a number of years of complaining in regards to the restrictions of the built-in Google interface.
Powertrain alternative stays acquainted however refined. The B5 mild-hybrid pairs a 2.0-litre turbo petrol with a 48-volt battery system, producing 183 kW and 350 N.m, with claimed gas use of 8.1 L/100 km. The T8 plug-in hybrid gives over 70 km of electric-only vary, and when the petrol engine joins in, mixed outputs attain 340 kW and 709 N.m. Volvo quotes 0–100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and a mixed consumption of 1.8 L/100 km. Both variations use an eight-speed computerized gearbox and all-wheel drive.
On the street, the XC90 goals to scale back effort quite than invite pleasure. Adaptive dampers and commonplace air suspension assist it regulate trip peak for ease of entry, higher aerodynamics, or extra clearance. At freeway speeds the cabin feels quieter than earlier than, because of added insulation and refined airflow.
Practicality stays central. Folding the second and third rows flat opens virtually 2,000 litres of baggage house. With all seven seats in place, 301 litres can be found, which is ample for a household weekend. Access to the third row is simple, and house within the rear has been improved with refined modifications.
The vary continues with Plus and Ultra trims, each comprehensively outfitted. Standard package consists of four-zone local weather management, a panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel, and power-adjustable entrance seats with reminiscence. Heating is fitted to each entrance and rear seats. Upholstery and inlay decisions vary from Nappa leather-based to textiles and veneers, with a crystal gear lever remaining essentially the most conspicuous flourish.
Volvo’s fame for security continues unchanged. The XC90 consists of collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane preserving assist, pilot help, adaptive cruise management, intersection autobrake, run-off street safety, and cross-traffic alert. Passive measures embrace a bolstered security cage, facet affect safety, and a number of airbags. Isofix factors are commonplace.
At the launch, Volvo Car South Africa managing director Grant Locke described the XC90 as a cornerstone of the model’s native line-up, and emphasised its position alongside the brand new EX90 as a part of a twin-track strategy. The technique permits South Africans to decide on between hybrids and absolutely electrical, relying on their circumstances.
Pricing begins at R1,555,500 for the B5 Plus and runs to R1,936,500 for the T8 Ultra. All fashions embrace a five-year/100,000 km guarantee and repair plan, roadside help for a similar interval, and on PHEV fashions the battery is roofed for eight years/160,000 km.
The up to date XC90 continues to serve its function as a spacious, protected and technically present SUV, providing consumers the selection of mild-hybrid effectivity or plug-in hybrid flexibility. Its evolution is regular quite than spectacular, however that’s what has saved it related for greater than twenty years.
* Arthur Goldstuck is CEO of World Wide Worx, editor-in-chief of Gadget.co.za, and writer of “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to AI – The African Edge”.