Volvo XC90 – Page 2 – Automobiles Review

Volvo Seems to Have Created the Best Hybrid Engine

Volvo XC90’s T8 Twin Engine is one of the best powertrains currently on the market. It can deliver spectacular power and has very low needs for fuel. This of course, corresponds to the lowest emissions for a seven seater. They have dropped by 10 g/km and now measure only 49 g/km. The fuel economy is rated at 134.5mpg, while the power from the engine has also grown. The SUV can generate a combined power of 407 hp (300 kW) and 640 Nm (472 lb-ft) of torque.

Drivetrain

As a matter of fact, the drivetrain allows to be driven on a pure electric range up to 26 miles. Meanwhile it achieves 0-62mph acceleration sprint in 5.6 seconds. To be more precise, the gasoline engine produces 320hp, while the electric unit delivers the other 87 hp. 400 Nm and 240 Nm is the combination for the torque.

Driving Modes

The seven seater can offer five driving modes, which can be selected via either a scroll wheel on the centre console or a touchscreen on the dashboard. The first one is the “Hybrid” mode, which is set as a default. This means that, the vehicle will alternate between drawing power from the Drive-E engine and the electric unit automatically.

The second mode is called “Pure electric” and as the name suggests it uses the battery of the car for the only energy source. The electric motor drives the rear axle, thus offering a total range of up to 26 miles solely on electricity. This mode is also the most efficient of all.

Via “Power mode” the driver will get both power-sources working and will offer a better torque at lower revs, while the “AWD” mode will drive the all-fours on demand. At last, the “Save” mode comes in help if the battery is charged and the driver literally wants to keep this energy level for a later electric ride.

The good new is that the XC90 T8 Twin Engine is scheduled to appear in the showrooms later this spring.

Source: Volvo

April 30, 2015

Volvo Redefines Excellence with Luxury XC90 Edition

Volvo XC90 Excellence Side VIew Are you looking inside of a Rolls-Royce? No. This is Volvo’s XC90 Excellence. The other shocking news is that it has been prepared to debut at the Shanghai International Automobile Show, so we won’t have the chance to get our hands on it. It is actually very sad news, because this is Swedish company’s most luxurious vehicle ever built.

A four-seater, this car has been created with the aim to be individual and distinctive. And so it is. Although it has been based on the XC90, this vehicle has nothing to do with it. The first difference is in the seats: the original version has a plenty of seven, while hear are only four. This of course speaks of more space for the occupants, which is also used to bring about First Class experience.

Speaking of luxury, we should begin at first with the individual rear seats, which are comfortable and include massage, ventilation and more space for the legs. For those lucky to travel at the back, there is a retractable control touchscreen, folding tables and a refrigerator. Inside one finds bottle and glass holders, heating/cooling cup holder and Orrefors handmade crystal glasses. Just like in a proper Rolls-Royce, isn’t it?

There is even more to that, we haven’t mention the footrests for the passengers, ambient lighting inside the cabin, illuminated storage and the leather with so many accents. The luggage compartment is divided via screen, there is additional noise insulation complemented by Pirelli Noise Cancelling System tyres (PNCS).

Furthermore, the XC90 Excellence is also equipped with Bowers & Wilkins audio system with 19 speakers, integrated ionic air cleaner in the CleanZone climate system, leather instrument panel with contrasting stitching and Nabuck leather headliner. Other styling differentiators feature Excellence rank mark, chrome B- and C-pillar cappings and lower door mouldings.

Our regret is only that we can’t be the first to see this unique car. Those in Shanghai will be advantageous. However, XC90 Excellence will be distributed globally later this year, but only in selected markets.

Source: Volvo

April 14, 2015

Impressive Crash Prevention System by Volvo

City Safety becomes one of the most developed, useful and enhanced crash prevention system which is standard in the all-new Volvo XC90. The system is active at all speeds from 4 km/h (2.5 mph) and it turns into the umbrella name for all Volvo’s auto brake functions.

The purpose of the Volvo City Safety system is to help and guide the driver by using an intuitive warning method as well as a brake support system. In a situation when the driver cannot respond right away, the system will provide automatic braking. Precisely, the system functions include:

Addressing Oncoming vehicles, including motorcycles and cycles, when the driver turns left (or right in left-hand traffic). City Safety then can note a possible crash and brakes automatically in order to avoid a collision.
Noting vehicles, including motorcycles, travelling in the same direction. City Safety can avoid an impact if the relative speed difference between the two vehicles is up to 50 km/h (31 mph). At higher speeds, the automatic braking reduces the consequences of the collision.
Addressing cyclists crossing the path of the car or suddenly swerving out in front it. Depending on the situation, City Safety is able to avoid a collision if the relative speed difference is up to 45 km/h (28 mph). At higher speeds, the automatic braking can mitigate the consequences of the collision.
Observing pedestrians walking out in front of the car. The system is able to avoid a collision at speeds up to 45 km/h (28 mph). At higher speeds, the automatic braking can help mitigate the consequences of the collision.

The excellent functions of the safety system also feature detection in darkness thanks to the integrated camera and radar which is able to monitor objects in front of the car and to determine their distance and movement.

Source: Volvo

December 8, 2014

The All-new Volvo XC90: One of The Safest Cars Worldwide

Among the most important characteristics of a car is its safety. Volvo Cars’ all-new XC90 has fully comprehended the significance of this virtue and therefore has implemented it very successfully which labels the car as one of the safest vehicles in the world.

Dr Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development of Volvo Car Group points out that: “Our starting point on safety is the same today as it was 87 years ago: real-life situations,” and then adds; “We study data. We crunch numbers. We innovate. The result is one of the safest cars ever made.”

Run-off road is an accident type which happens often. There are different causes, like driver distraction, bad or poor weather conditions and so on. Disturbed by the huge number of such accidents, Volvo Cars is seeking a practicable solution. The development of the automaker’s Safe Positioning which addresses such and similar situations is a massive step forward that leads towards a safer driving.

Precisely, The Safe Positioning capability means that in a run-off road occurrence, the all-new Volvo XC90 is able to monitor what is happening. As a result, the front safety belts are tightened which keeps the occupants in a stable and secured position. The belts stay firmly tightened as long as the car is in motion.

Furthermore, The XC90 is the first car around the globe with technology that includes automatic braking in case the driver turns in front of an oncoming car. Also, there is a wide range of other safety innovative technologies available on the all-new XC90 such as: Pre-crash protection in rear impacts, Groundbreaking rollover prevention and protection, City Safety auto braking functions, Extended Road Sign Information, Covers the blind spots and Queue Assist.

Source: Volvo

December 5, 2014

Volvo to Offer Simulated Test Drive of XC90 Using Google Cardboard

Volvo Cars is going to be the first automotive manufacturer which will use Google Cardboard in order to make a thorough change in the way different businesses enable their audiences to experience a certain product. This transformation will be realized through the lens of virtual reality via Google Cardboard. Starting at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Volvo is inviting auto and innovation enthusiasts to go through a ground-breaking test-drive of the all-new XC90, months before it officially arrives in the US.

How exactly is this going to happen? The answer is: very easily. First the Volvo Reality app should be downloaded, after that users should insert their phones into Google Cardboard. Following this, viewers will be virtually transported into an XC90 where they can dive into a revolutionary experience and exploratory car-driving. The main reason for this simulated test-drive using Google Cardboard is to promote Volvo XC90 crossover, which will go on sale in spring 2015. The automaker will roll out the Cardboard test drives at the Los Angeles Auto Show and at Volvo dealers.

“Using Google Cardboard exemplifies the marriage of innovation and design engineering. With nothing more than a smartphone, cardboard, two lenses and a magnet, customers can experience a test drive that puts them in the driver’s seat of the XC90,” commented Bodil Eriksson, EVP, Product, Brand, Marketing & Communications, Volvo Cars North America. He also added that; “With Google Cardboard we can deliver an experience that is so much richer than simple videos or pictures. We can now transport people into a 360-degree world where they can explore and experience the next-generation luxury SUV, months before it’s in dealerships.”

Source: Volvo

November 14, 2014

2015 Volvo XC90 Unveils Improved Multi-filter that Enhances Interior Air Quality

CleanZone is a clever and unique approach developed by Volvo Cars which is designed to control the quality of the interior air and to provide a better driving environment through groundbreaking solutions for improved well-being and health. Drivers are enabled to breathe more easily because even the tiniest and microscopic dust particles will now be kept out.

The multi-filter which is created specifically for the SPA platform, will first appear in the all-new stylish Volvo XC90 in the beginning of 2015. The filter includes a larger design that intercepts more particulates and pollen. There is also a layer of active charcoal that serves the purpose to clean off every contaminants which can impact and harm the health of drivers.

As a result, every car that is equipped with the new enhanced multi-filter, shows reduced amount of “fine dust” particles which are smaller than 0,4 μm. Comparing this to a car without the filter, there is about 70% difference in terms of “fine dust” particles-presence. This is considered as a very pivotal improvement as studies have pointed out that dust particles smaller than 10 µm can cause a number of health problems, including lung infections and difficulties when it comes to breathing.

Nevertheless, the filter is just one of the elements that comprise the Volvo’s state-of-the-art Interior Air Quality System (IAQS). Another feature is a sensor that can scan the incoming air for noxious substances. If the level of harmful substances is too high (for example when driving through a tunnel), the car’s air intakes will automatically close. The multi-filter and sensor, then, prevent a number of harmful and irritating pollutants, from entering the vehicle. Such harmful material includes:

• Nitrogen oxides
• Hydrocarbons
• Ground-level ozone
• Gases and unpleasant odors

Source: Volvo

November 12, 2014

Heico Sportive Teases Custom Volvo XC90

Heico Sportiv Volvo XC90 is a project that we eagerly await. The tuning company has just released the first teaser image of the upcoming customized car and the news that the specialists have already begun developing a comprehensive accessories and equipment features for this Scandinavian premium SUV. Other details haven’t been disclosed yet, but we expect this to happen in the coming months.

As we can see from the image, the car is covered in poison green color paint scheme and we also wonder whether there will be any changes in this direction. In addition, the rendering also suggests that there will be a lowered suspension and of course new alloy wheels.

The second generation XC90 was unveiled prior the Paris Motor Show but celebrated its official public unveil there. The market launch of the car is scheduled for May next year. This model is the first Volvo which is built on company’s Scalable Product Architecture and in addition it is powered by four-cylinder Drive-E engines.

Volvo is offering a range of petrol and diesel engines. In particular, the gasoline units are the T5, which produces 254 hp (187 kW) & 350 Nm (258 lb-ft), and the T6 turbo- and supercharged engine, which is rated at 320 hp (235 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). The diesel powerplants are also two: the D4 with 190 hp (140 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) as well as the twin-turbo D6 producing 255 hp (189 kW) and 470 Nm (347 lb-ft).

Volvo has also announced that there will also be a powerful plug-in hybrid version dubbed T8. It offers a combined output of 400 hp (294 kW) and generates 640 Nm (472 lb-ft) from a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter and an 80 hp electric motor. The electric motor alone offers a range of 40 km (25 miles). Other attractive features in the new XC90 are the T-shaped LED daytime running lights and the 22-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the SUV can offer space for up to seven people.

Source: Heico Sportiv

October 22, 2014

2015 Volvo XC90 To Feature Intellisafe Solutions

Volvo XC90 Intellisafe Solutions is designed to make tricky parking situations and maneuvering in tight spaces easier than before. Extended Park Assist Pilot is included in the IntelliSafe support technologies. It offers automatic reversing into a parking bay, entering and exiting a parallel parking spot. Furthermore, this new feature in the 2015 XC90 also displays digitally created bird’s-eye view of the 360° area around the car on the large centre screen. These options turn the potentially stressful parking situations into comfortable ones.

The updated Park Assist Pilot makes it easier for the drive parallel and bay parking by taking over. Then it operates the steering wheel while the driver is operating with the gearbox thus controlling the speed of the car.

While maneuvering, the new XC90 collects information from twelve ultrasonic sensors around the car. If the driver decides to activate the Park Assist Pilot in a parallel parking situation, then the sensors begin scanning the side of the car for empty parking slots.

If a parking slot is larger than 1.2 times car’s length, the person behind the steering wheel in notified via an audible signal and a message written on the instrument cluster. The same thing happens in a bay parking situation. However, the slot needs to be the width of the car plus 1 meter. Gradually the driver is guided by texts and animations on the display until the car is parked.

The next technology included is bird’s-eye view from above the car or the so called 360° Surround View. It delivers the driver an overview of the surrounding area from a point above the car.

This feature is enabled by four concealed fish-eye cameras. The first one is integrated into the front, the second and third – in each of the door mirrors and the last one – above the rear number plate.Thanks to these cameras, the driver also can get access to other views of the surrounding area like front, rear and side views.

IntelliSafe also features Cross Traffic Alert. This technology covers the driver’s back when reversing out of a parking space. It notifies the driver with an audible signal and a warning on the center screen when a car is in the vicinity of up to 30 meters on each side.

Source: Volvo

July 22, 2014

Volvo XC90 To Be Driven By T8 Twin Engine

The gradual reveal of Volvo XC90 continues with additional information revealed by the Swedish automaker. Volvo has announced that its new SUV will offer combination of power and clean operation. It has also disclosed that the vehicle will be launched later this year. It will be an all-wheel drive seven seater, which is to deliver up to 400 horsepower (294 kW) but at the same time, it will also produce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of around 60 g/km on the NEDC driving cycle. This will make the future XC90 the first SUV offering this level of power this cleanly.

Precisely, the new model will offer a range of Drive-E engine options, all of which will provide an excellent combination of performance and fuel-efficiency. What makes the Drive-E engine range unique is that they are all four-cylinder engines. Volvo has made it possible for those units to provide all the driving pleasure associated with a bigger engine, and in addition to do so far more efficiently and cleanly.

The engine on the top of the range is the Twin Engine, which carry the badge ‘T8’ and be a plug-in electric car, hybrid car and high-performance car rolled into one. The default hybrid mode offers normal driving by using two-litre, four-cylinder supercharged and turbocharged Drive-E petrol engine. The latter powers the front wheels.

There is also an 80 hp (60 kW) electric motor which drives the rear wheels. It utilizes the supercharger to fill in the bottom end of the power range. The electric motor on the rear wheels also provides immediate torque.

Just one touch of the button is needed in order for the driver to switch to quiet and emission-free city driving on pure electric power. The range of the car on electric mode alone is estimated around 25 miles. When needed the vehicle immediately revert back to the combined capacity of the petrol engine and electric motor. Their combined output is around 400 hp (294 kW) and 640 Nm (472 lb-ft) of torque.

In the range of engines that will be offered in the new Volvo XC90 there will be also the D5 twin turbo diesel engine with 225 hp (165 kW) and 470 Nm (347 lb-ft). Its fuel consumption is estimated at 47 mpg on the combined cycle. The other engine is the D4 turbo diesel with 190 hp (140 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). It offers a fuel consumption of around 56 mpg (combined cycle).

As a chassis, Volvo will use the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA). It will allow for far more flexibility inside the car. In addition, it will also create a far wider range of design possibilities and it will also improve driveability. SPA will benefit of the inclusion of the newest safety features and connected in-car technologies. What is more, it will also increase the space of the interior.

Source: Volvo

July 8, 2014

2015 Volvo XC90 Infotainment System [videos]

Volvo has published several videos of the special interior of the all-new 2015 XC90. The flagship SUV is set to make official debut in August, this year. It is scheduled to enter production in Sweden at the Torslanda factory in Gothenburg.

The elegant and stylish cabin boasts a big touchscreen display using Volvo’s Sensus interface which promise to be not only intuitive and easy to use, but more it will “keep eyes on the road and hands on the wheel as much as possible” according to Volvo’s senior vice president of design Thomas Ingenlath.

Most of the buttons and switch knobs have been replaced by the new display. This is a very effective way of keeping the driver focused on the road instead of using different buttons for all kinds of functions. There is also a head-up display projecting important data on the lower section of the windscreen, while voice control also minimizes distractions.

Other nice innovation is the ability of the touchscreen to recognize the touch input even, when the driver wears gloves. A special infrared technology takes care for that.

2015 Volvo XC90 will also come with an Ericsson-based cloud solution and a HERE navigation system, which will support remote content updates. Volvo Sensus will include a number of cloud-based apps such as connected navigation, Internet radio, music streaming, finding & paying for parking, detecting restaurants and other nice stuff.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T34WK1_fAZE

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-50Gc7sauno

Source: Volvo

June 3, 2014

Volvo Shows 2015 XC90’s Interior

2015 Volvo XC90 was just partially revealed – the company has shown the first interior pictures of the upcoming model. The official premiere of the car will happen in August. In fact, the original XC90 was introduced in 2002 and eventually revolutionized the SUV segment with its combination of space, versatility and safety. As we can conclude from the photos, the XC90 features the most luxurious interior that have ever been designed for a Volvo.

Inside, the design of this SUV is inspired by the country of Volvo’s birth, Sweden. The country actually has the global reputation for integrating the latest technology with design that is clean, beautiful and crafted from the finest materials.

The most striking feature is the tablet-like touch screen control console. It is button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to control their car and access a range of Internet-based products and services.

Furthermore, the interior combines materials like a soft leather and wood with handcrafted details. For instance, the gear-lever was made of crystal glass, as the diamond-cut controls for the start/stop button and volume control.

2015 XC90 is the first Volvo to use Scalable Product Architecture (SPA). The latter creates a far wider range of design possibilities, improves driveability and permits the inclusion of the latest safety features and connected in-car technologies. In addition, it increases interior space.

Other details, for example around the safety and interior air quality will be released in late July or early August. The full reveal of the technology highlights, including chassis and powertrains, will start in mid-July and will continue throughout the summer. The exterior launch of 2015 Volvo XC90 is scheduled for the end of August.

Source: Volvo

May 27, 2014

Spyshots: Possible Volvo XC90 Caught Winter Testing

Volvo-XC90-Winter-Testing-medium-1 No, this is not the automotive equivalent of a restrained Dr. Lecter. It’s a camouflaged Volvo XC90 doing some snowy tests according to Swedespeed. Spy shots courtesy to the guys at CarPix.

Apparently, there are some similarities to be drawn with the Concept XC Coupe that took over Detroit last month. However, the extra cladding is so thorough that you would be forgiven to think that you are looking at BMW’s X5 series.

The XC90 is set to make an official debut sometime this fall. Volvo are adamant that the original XC90 capabilities will be perfectly preserved (3-rows setups included). Still, the new one will be the first Volvo to use the company’s SPA platform along with the Drive-E (VEA) powertrain layout. Supposedly, XC90s intended for the US market will churn out at the very least 302 hp. Don’t be surprised if they throw in a couple of electric motors as well. Also, Aisin Warner 8-speed transmissions will be coming as standard.

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February 4, 2014

Tag: Volvo XC90

Drivetrain

Driving Modes