CAR
The nation's Plug-in Hybrid luxury SUV
Volvo Car Malaysia has taken a huge step into making our country into an ASEAN hub for Energy Efficient Vehicles by introducing a plug-in hybrid SUV. Yes, if you haven’t already heard about it, the all-new XC90 that was introduced in Malaysia a week ago is not just a hybrid but a plug-in as well.
What makes the XC90 stand out from all the rest?
- The engine is known as the T8 Twin Engine which Volvo claims is the company’s most powerful powertrain. It combines a four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor that outputs a total power of 407bhp at 5700rpm and 640Nm of torque at 2200 to 5400rpm. Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission the XC90 rushes from naught to 100kph in only 5.6 seconds.
- The XC90 is the first Volvo model built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) modular chassis technology, the start of the company’s transformation plan. The new structure will allow Volvo to retain or improve their class-leading safety features without compromising looks, space or weight.
- One thing is for sure, the XC90 has never looked better with its giant grille that will be the company’s new more prominent iron mark. Together with the T-shaped “Thor’s Hammer” DRL lights, the new front end you see on the XC90 is the start of a new signature design. The sharpened shoulder lights that connect to the tattoo like new rear lights are also signature hallmarks that will be replicated on future Volvo models as well.
- Inside, Volvo prides themselves for creating an almost buttonless console. The only buttons available for tapping are the air-conditioner controls and on the steering. In place of the buttons is a tablet-like touch screen control console which houses the new Sensus user interface.
- Everything is wrapped in the finest Nappa leather, even the new seats that Volvo has designed for the XC90 that now resembles the human spine. The second row seats feature recline adjustments and are easily moved forward via a sliding function to create more legroom for the third row.
- The aforementioned Sensus is the most modern user interface in the market. Not only does it come in a touch-screen tablet it also comes with a head-up display. You can start a conversation with the car as Sensus is capable of voice-control system. Internet radio, connected navigation, finding and paying for parking and mirror-link as well.
- As with every Volvo, the XC90 comes with the complete suite of City Safety technology. You get the usual standard stuff and the world-first automatic braking technology if the driver turns in front of an oncoming car, there is also the new Adaptive Cruise Control with Pilot Assist that enables safe and comfortable semi-autonomous driving in the usual traffic jam.
Put your name down for a Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine which will set you back RM453,888.00 on the road without insurance inclusive of GST. 11 colours are available to choose from along with a choice of five interior colours.
Jerrica Leong
