Volvo's XC90 midsize SUV is bringing some exciting changes for 2015 and from the looks of it the XC90 will claim the title "best choice in class." Long known for its innovation in automotive safety, including the three point seat belt, Volvo takes safety to a new level adding world first technologies and improving upon existing systems.
A completely redesigned exterior gives the 2015 XC90 a contemporary, athletic stance and maximizes interior cabin space. This eye-catching design sits atop a brand new platform that features high strength, heat treated boron steel to maximize collision protection while minimizing weight. Toss in the crisp, clean look of Swedish luxury for the interior and you have a premium SUV that will be a major force in the market.
But let's take a look at the new safety features first.
It's Not the Boxy Look of Yesteryear but it is Still the Safest Brand on the Road
The Volvo has been the icon for safety for decades and just because it has taken on a new smarter look does not mean that the focus on passenger survival has changed. Here is a quick example of what we mean:
- Accidental Road Departures
Did you know that nearly half of all fatal automobile accidents involve leaving the road accidentally? One look at the edge of the roads crossing Bonita Springs and Naples and you can probably understand why. There are no shoulders. What's there is a grassy slope that leads down to a drainage ditch or swale. The new system will sound an alarm when it senses the right wheels leaving the pavement unintentionally, will snug up seat belts, and includes active shock absorbers in the seats making the cabin of the Volvo the safest place to be. - Automatic braking at intersections
If a driver is making a turn across traffic Volvo's new technology will sweep the area. If dangerous cross traffic is detected the system will automatically brake the Volvo avoiding head on and T-bone crashes. In the event that the accident can't be avoided, the Volvo driver and his or her passengers will walk away with a new appreciation for the 40% boron steel frame that acts as protection. - Enhanced Drowsy Driver Alert Many brands, including Volvo, now provide a technology that determines when a driver is drowsy or fatigued and alerts the driver. Volvo has taken that alert one step further and will now offer directions via the navigation system to the nearest rest area or coffee shop. Think about how handy that is when making those long road trips from Fort Myers or Naples back north to visit friends or family.
Luxury Ride, Accident Prevention Systems, Brand New Look and one more Surprise
You've got options under the hood when you consider buying a 2015 Volvo XC90. There are a range of powerplants running from the 190 hp turbocharged 5 cylinder diesel, to the 320 hp inline 4 or the real game changer, an E-Drive twin turbo 4 cylinder paired with an electric motor that combined generate 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque!
The combo offers more horses than a Porsche and has lower carbon emissions than a Toyota Prius. That is not a combination that easy to find in a midsize SUV. Save the planet and have your horsepower too!
The 2015 hasn't been released yet and we don't expect it until early Spring 2015 but if you are considering buying a new SUV we think this vehicle will be worth the wait. If you have any questions about the XC90 give us a call at Volvo of Bonita Springs and we'll be delighted to discuss it.
Written By: Joe Parisi