2016 Volvo XC90
New for 2016
The XC90 is completely new for 2016. It rides on an all-new platform, with Volvo’s latest Drive-E powertrains and new exterior and interior styling, among many changes.
Reinventing the SUV
The first-generation Volvo XC90 went on sale in 2002 and continued in showrooms until last year. It was an automotive example of the old saying “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Now the 2016 Volvo XC90 arrives as the replacement to that ruthlessly competent SUV, and looks poised to have a similarly successful run. It’s a complete reinvention of the luxury SUV, with new styling, fuel-efficient powertrains, and a high-quality interior designed around one of the most high-tech interfaces in the business.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2016 Volvo XC90 launches with one new and efficient powertrain, with at least one more set to arrive in a few months. Both are from Volvo’s Drive-E line of high-tech four-cylinder gasoline engines, which seem a little small for a large SUV, but pack plenty of punch.
The first XC90 models available in showrooms will ship with the T6 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which is both turbocharged and supercharged. It produces 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, which is sent to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Volvo says this engine allows the XC90 to launch itself from 0 to 62 mph in a fairly quick 6.5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 143 mph. Since it’s only a four-cylinder, though, all of that performance comes with EPA-rated fuel economy of 22 mpg combined (20 mpg city/25 mpg highway).*
Volvo also offers an XC90 T8 “Twin Engine” model with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It features the same 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged engine and eight-speed automatic, with an added electric motor and 9.2-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack.
Together, both power sources yield 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough for a 0 to 62 mph time of 5.9 seconds, while the top speed remains 143 mph. EPA fuel-economy figures estimate pure-electric range at 14 miles. When in hybrid mode, the T8 returns an estimated 25 mpg combined.* With those numbers combined, the EPA has awarded the T8 a 53 MPGe efficiency estimate.*
Features and Trims
The 2016 Volvo XC90 is a five-door, seven-passenger SUV. It’s available in three trim levels, with prices starting at $48,900.**
The base T6 AWD model comes with a generous complement of standard equipment, including 19-inch alloy wheels, four-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver’s and passenger’s seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and 12.3-inch instrument display.
In addition to the applicable standard features from the base model, the T6 AWD R-Design includes model-specific 20-inch alloy wheels, special exterior and interior styling features, sport pedals, an R-Design startup sequence for the instrument display, and other features.
The top XC90 model is the T6 AWD Inscription, which encompasses the applicable standard features from the other models, and adds LED headlights, Nappa leather upholstery, high-level interior illumination, integrated aluminum roof rails, ventilated front seats, linear walnut wood inlays, and rear sun curtains, among other features.
There are also several available options, including four-corner air suspension with Volvo’s FOUR-C active chassis control, and a Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system.
Design
The 2016 Volvo XC90 debuts the new face of the Swedish brand. Whereas previous Volvos were boxy and stoic, the XC90 is sculpted and stylish. The traditional Volvo grille with diagonal slash takes on a whole new shape, and it’s flanked by distinctive T-shaped “Thor’s Hammer” daytime running lights.
The sides of the car have more curves than the previous XC90, allowing it to blur the line between tough truck and sleek car. At the back, there’s a new take on the previous XC90’s tall taillights that Volvo describes as “tattoo like.”
Volvo says the XC90’s interior is its most luxurious yet, and that’s no exaggeration. It’s designed around a tablet-like central screen that takes the place of virtually all switches and buttons. An unparalleled level of craftsmanship is apparent in items like the diamond-cut starter button and volume controls and crystal glass shifter from famous Swedish glassmaker Orrefors.
Safety
Volvo is known for its emphasis on safety, and the 2016 XC90 doesn’t disappoint. Its list of standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, front collision mitigation, lane-departure warning, and a full array of airbags.
Optional safety features include the Vision Package, which adds blind-spot monitoring, and cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. The Convenience Package includes park assist, adaptive cruise control, and a lane-keeping aid.
Bottom Line
The 2016 Volvo XC90 is set to redefine the luxury SUV segment with its impressive combination of style, technology, and performance.
Be sure to contact us online and visit Volvo Cars Silver Spring to schedule a test drive.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.
Image: Volvo