Volvo Car South Africa has unveiled a refreshed version of its best-selling XC90. This premium SUV boasts world-leading safety features, efficient yet frugal powertrains, and a superlative interior finish.
The latest XC90 follows in the esteemed footsteps of the all-new XC90, which was launched globally in 2015. At the time, it was the first of Volvo’s cars to feature the company’s new more prominent iron mark, which has the iconic arrow elegantly aligned with the diagonal slash across the grille. Together with the T-shaped “Thor’s Hammer” DRL lights, the iron mark introduced an entirely new, distinctive face for Volvo’s forthcoming generation of vehicles.
The same styling is carried through in the 2020 XC90. However, the latest SUV also boasts new wheels, new exterior colours, and a modern new grille. Significantly, it also comes in a brand new six-seat configuration.
Luxurious interior
When the all-new XC90 debuted in 2015, it had the most luxurious interior ever designed for a Volvo. Precisely the same applies to the very latest model.
The most striking feature is a tablet-like touchscreen control console, which forms the heart of the in-car control system. This system is virtually button free and represents an innovative way for drivers to control their car and access a range of Internet-based products and services.
The interior combines materials such as soft leather and wood with handcrafted details, including a gear lever made of crystal glass from Orrefors, the famous Swedish glassmaker, on the T8 Inscription, and diamond-cut controls for the start/stop button and volume control. The interior now includes two USB ports as standard as well as a telematics unit with a P-Sim card slot. As well as ample space for passengers, there is a flexible load compartment with up to 1 856 litres of space.
The 2020 XC90 can be ordered with a range of different seating configurations. From the seven-seat family SUV, to the brand new six-seat configuration, the XC90 has been created to best fit people’s preferences and lifestyles, says Volvo.
Engine choices
The new XC90 offers a range of 2.0-litre, four-cylinder powertrains, all of which are coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The turbocharged diesel engine equipped to the Volvo XC90 D5 Geartronic AWD delivers 173kW at 4 000 r/min and 480Nm of torque at 1 750 – 2 250 r/min. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.7 L/100km* (combined).
The XC90 T5 AWD is equipped with a 187kW petrol engine, which features a high-pressure turbo. It delivers 350Nm of torque at 1 500 to 4 800 r/min. Fuel consumption is 7.6 L/100km* (combined).
The supercharged and turbocharged petrol engine equipped to the Volvo XC90 T6 Geartronic AWD delivers 235kW and 400Nm of torque. It consumes 8.0 L/100km* (combined).
The range-topping Volvo XC90 T8 Geartronic AWD utilises the same engine as the T6, but works in conjunction with a 65kW/240Nm electric motor, delivering a total system output 300kW and 640Nm. Fuel consumption is a remarkable 2.1 L/100km* (combined), while emissions are a low 49 g/km.
*Manufacturer’s claim
R-Design model up for grabs
Volvo Car South Africa is launching a new R-Design version of its award-winning XC90. R-Design models are the sportiest XC90s to date, featuring a range of design and equipment upgrades to give Volvo’s SUV a sporty makeover.
The outside of the car is distinguished by 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, black door mirrors and a gloss black mesh front grille. Inside, there are leather/nubuck sports seats and a perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel complete with gearshift paddles. R-Design XC90s also get a powered front passenger seat with memory function (to match the driver’s seat), sports pedals, black headlining, and upgraded interior lighting. There’s even an exclusive R-Design leather-clad remote key fob.
R-Design models come with Drive Mode Settings and Adjustable Steering Force as standard, which allow you to choose between different settings for the engine, transmission, steering, and the optional air suspension.
Range and pricing
The model year 2020 version of the XC90 will be available on dealer showroom floors from mid-August 2019. All Volvos come standard with: five-year/100 000km Warranty and Maintenance Plan (Volvo Plan), five-year/unlimited mileage Roadside Assistance, and DataDot application.
The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes at any time, without notice to prices and models. Issued July 2019.