Long known for its stalwart line of ultra-safe and functional automobiles, Volvo has in the past two decades undergone a metamorphosis. This has involved radical new designs that are just as much about beautiful styling as they are about safety and functionality. While cars have long been the basis of the Volvo market, in 2002 this vaunted Swedish vehicle manufacturer introduced the world to the XC90 a mid-size luxury crossover SUV and a major step into modern time for this automaker.
First Offering
The XC90 was Volvo's first attempt to enter into the SUV market, one that while somewhat late to the party, would soon go on to one of the most popular crossover SUVs in the world. This vehicle entered a market where most of the other manufacturers already offered a minimum of four different models each. Yet when it debuted at dealerships in 2003, sales were far higher than Volvo had ever dreamed possible.
The first Volvo XC90 was available in only two models, the 2.5T and the T-6. The 2.5T was the base entry level model and featured a 2.5 liter turbocharged inline five cylinder engine. The T-6 was offered with a 2.9 liter turbocharged 24 valve inline six cylinder engine. The 2.5T was only available in front wheel drive, while the T-6 could be ordered as an all-wheel drive model for those who desired more traction. In 2005 an additional model that featured a V8 engine developed by Ford and Yamaha could be ordered.
With seating for up to seven adults the XC90 was practically an instant hit on the American market. In 2003 the Volvo XC90 won the North American Car of the Year Award as well as the Sport Utility Vehicle of the Year Award from Motortrend Magazine.
Introducing the 2016 Volvo XC90
Expected to arrive at Volvo of Bonita Springs in May of 2015, the 2016 XC90 may well be one of the most anticipated new models in years. This year the XC90 has undergone a complete redesign that makes it longer, wider, and taller than last year's model, while at the same time it is lighter and more luxurious than ever before. For the 2016 model year Volvo's focus is on interior space, luxury, and the use of premium materials for added comfort more than ever before.
This year the T6 will come with a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0 liter inline four cylinder direct injected engine capable of producing a full 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. of torque. This powerful engine connects to the all-wheel drive system via an eight speed shiftable automatic transmission. For those who need or want a more environmentally efficient model, there is the upgraded T8 model.
The T8 comes with the Drive-E system that offers drivers a hybrid model coupling the T6 engine to a hybrid system. This combined power plant will give the T8 a total of 400 horsepower and yet still be clean burning enough to be the cleanest SUV on the market once it goes on sale.
Here in the U.S. the XC90 is to be available in the all-wheel drive version and will make use of a double wishbone suspension on the front axle for added ride comfort and control. Among the many other features are a transverse leaf spring on the rear axle and electronic power rack and pinion steering instead of the more traditional hydraulic steering used for decades. Inside you will find leather upholstery, a four zone automatic climate control system, a 12.3 inch digital instrument display, and a leather steering wheel as standard features. At this point there are two different premium trim levels to choose from where you get to choose a number of extra upgrades such as LED headlights, 21 inch wheels, illuminated sills, and upgraded audio systems.
If you are ready to see all that the new 2016 Volvo XC90 has to offer, drop by Volvo of Bonita Springs at 28470 S Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 or visit online. Call today to arrange an appointment with one our informed and skilled sales people at (888) 355-2749!