Volvo has silently launched a 2018 model year update for its XC90 D5 diesel model, in which all three trim levels get more equipment and safety kit. With the update, the base Momentum is now priced at Rs 76.47 lakh, the mid-spec R-Design costs Rs 83.92 lakh, and the top-spec Inscription will set you back by Rs 86.96 lakh (all prices ex-showroom, pan-India).
The base Momentum trim now comes with features like heated front seats, paddleshifters, adaptive cruise control, a parking assist system that can self-park and a compass. The higher-spec variants are equipped with a blind spot information system along with cross traffic alerts, rear collision mitigation support (it was offered only at the front earlier), a 360-degree camera and a heated steering.
The R-Design variant misses out on the top-spec’s ventilated seats with a massage function for the front ones and features a slightly different treatment on sections like the outside mirrors, windows, gear lever, sill moulding and remote control.
In terms of powertrain, the XC90 D5 continues with the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder diesel making 235hp and 480Nm of peak torque, which is mated to an eight-speed transmission that sends power to all four wheels.
The Swedish manufacturer has not revealed if the petrol-hybrid T8 Excellence trim of the XC90 will also benefit from this equipment update, but dealers have confirmed that it will receive an upgrade as well.
The new XC90 has been designed along the company’s new design philosophy which was first previewed in the Volvo Coupe Concept. The front gets a prominent chrome grille which holds the company’s logo, flanked by Thor’s hammer LED headlamps on both sides. The car’s strong shoulder line moulds into the long sculpted bonnet, giving the car an aggressive stance. At the rear, Volvo is one of the few companies to continue the vertically stacked lamps design while the hatch door itself has dynamic creases running under the number plate slot.
Interior
The interior gets a clean, clutter-free design for the dashboard with the centre console being dominated by a large touch-screen armed with the latest infotainment software. This panel will control a majority of the functions in the car. It gets almost all the creature comforts for a flagship SUV with leather upholstery, power adjustable seats, adjustable steering for rake and reach, automatic headlamps and rain sensing wipers.
For the comfort of the passengers, Volvo has added a new four-zone climate system with clean zone air purification system which offers individual settings for the first and the second row. The second and third row seats are fully foldable to open up a humongous cargo space in case you need to carry your world with you. Being a Volvo, a dense net of airbags, driver aids and stability programs ensure occupant safety at all times.
Engine and gearbox
The Volvo XC90 will be offered with the four cylinder turbocharged diesel engine. The 2.0-litre mill develops 225bhp of power and 470Nm of torque with a fuel economy of 17.2kmpl and can be sold in Delhi. The only gearbox option is the eight-speed AT and an AWD system. Volvo has also hinted that it may bring the T8 hybrid petrol version if there is sufficient demand.
Price and competition
The Volvo XC90 competes with the Audi Q7, the Mercedes GL and the seven-seater version of the BMW X5 along with the top spec Land Rover Discovery Sport with the seven-seat option.