Volvo has committed to launching new hybrid vehicles in the country and the first cars to be launched under this programme were the XC60 and the S90. Now, Volvo has gone ahead and given the hybrid treatment to its flagship SUV, the XC90. One thing to note is that the XC90 already came with a hybrid powertrain. However, Volvo has ditched the diesel powertrain. Priced at ₹89.9 lakh, the XC90 mild hybrid is available in single fully-loaded Inscription trim. Let’s take a look at it:
Exterior
In terms of design, the XC90 hasn’t received any changes. The most notable element in the design has to be the T-shaped “Thor’s Hammer” DRL lights in the headlamps, which highlight the bold new front fascia. The rest of the design adds a hint of boxiness, a visual throwback to the box-like Volvos of the past. It gets a waterfall grille at the front which adorns the Volvo logo. The overall design remains clean and simple which has a charm of its own. The XC90 is offered in four colors namely, Onyx Black, Crystal White Pearl, Denim Blue, and Pine Grey.
Interior
The XC90 comes loaded with features such as a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, a portrait-oriented touchscreen with smartphone compatibility, a 1400W 19-speaker Bowers and Wilkins audio, an air quality system with PM 2.5 filter, four-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Being a Volvo, it comes with many safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, pilot assist, blind-spot detection, a 360-degree camera, and park assist.
Powertrain
The updated XC90 ditches the 2-liter 235hp D5 engine. It now comes with a 3-liter turbo-petrol engine which produces 300hp. There’s also a 48V mild-hybrid system that provides torque assist. It comes mated to an 8-speed automatic and power is sent to all four wheels.
Official statement
Jyoti Malhotra, Managing Director, Volvo Car India, said, “With the launch of the New XC90, we have launched three new petrol mild-hybrid models this quarter. The confidence reposed by the customer in our brand has given us the conviction to offer them, technology-loaded new models. This launch completes our commitment to transit from diesel to petrol and underlines our unfettered strategy to grow the Indian market.”