A new batch of leaked images has fully revealed Volvo’s all-new 2015 XC90 crossover mere hours ahead of it scheduled debut.
The XC90 inaugurates Volvo’s next design language that was previewed by a series of show cars including the Concept Estate introduced last March in Geneva. Generally more angular than the current model, the crossover boasts a tall front end characterized by a floating radiator grille with horizontal slats, sharp headlights with T-shaped LED daytime running lights and a rippled hood. Out back, the upright tail lamps remain but they adopt LED technology.
Inside, the XC90 moves up a notch on the market with a luxurious cockpit that features acres of leather upholstery, real wood trim on the dashboard and on the center console as well as a large tablet-like touch screen that controls the crossover’s infotainment system. The steering is commanded through a three-spoke multi-function wheel, and the next XC90 packs a fully digital instrument cluster.
Under the Skin
From launch, the XC90 will be offered with a fuel-saving plug-in hybrid drivetrain dubbed T8 Twin Engine consisting of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline-burning mill that is both supercharged and turbocharged and a compact electric motor mounted on the rear axle. The four-banger will power the front wheels, while the motor will use electricity stored in a high-capacity battery pack to spin the rear wheels.
Under normal driving conditions, the two power sources will work together to generate about 400 horsepower and a V8-like 472 lb-ft. of torque. Alternatively, the motor will be able to propel the XC90 on electricity alone for up to 24 miles.
Conventional versions of the next XC90 will be powered by Volvo’s new Drive-E engine family which will include two gas-burning mills rated at 254 and 320 horsepower, respectively, and two turbodiesels tuned to generate 190 and 225 ponies. The oil-burners are unlikely to be sold on this side of the Atlantic.
The 2015 XC90 rides on a brand new modular platform set to underpin many of Volvo’s upcoming models regardless of size and vehicle type. Volvo says it can adjust just about any aspect of the SPA platform, from overhangs to wheelbase to vehicle height. The only fixed point in the SPA platform is the distance from the front wheel to the pedal box.
Volvo notes that the SPA platform’s versatility allows passengers up to 5 feet 7 inches tall to comfortably sit in the XC90′s third row.
Full details about the 2015 Volvo XC90 will emerge over the next 24 hours. The crossover will greet the public for the first time at next October’s Paris Motor Show and go on sale in the United States shortly after. Pricing information will be published at a later date.
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