Volvo Cars began its journey in 1927. The Swedish automobile company is well-known for its reliability and safety features on offer. Although the brand is popular for its heavy-duty vehicles, it shares a fine lineup of SUVs and sedans equipped with modern features. While the company rolled out many hatchbacks, sedans, and wagons from 1927 onwards, it entered the SUV market in 2002. That said, Volvo XC90 became the first-ever SUV launched by the Swedish auto brand.
Volvo XC90’s history spans only two generations in its journey of around 20 years. Since the inception of the XC90, Volvo has introduced cutting-edge technology and features to this SUV. Let’s go through the complete history of the Volvo XC90 and how it has evolved over the years.
VOLVO XC90 MODELS AND GENERATIONS
It is an interesting fact about Volvo that the Swedish auto company launched its first SUV, the XC90, in early 2002. It did not take long for the XC90 to become a much-anticipated SUV by Volvo. Although Volvo was late to the SUV segment, the Swedish brand ensured that they covered the technology gap with the introduction of new safety features. The XC90 is among the cars that saved their brands not once, but twice when Volvo Group was on the verge of collapsing.
The Volvo XC90’s history is not too long but the SUV became a top model because of the innovative solutions and technology it included. Here are the details about two generations of Volvo XC90 and what are the different types of Volvo XC90.
FIRST GENERATION VOLVO XC90 (2002 TO 2014)
The first generation Volvo XC90 came into sight in 2002 at the Detroit Motor Show. After it was well-perceived by car enthusiasts, the Volvo XC90 model was mass-produced. Volvo took the following innovative solutions to encounter the drawbacks of SUVs encountered at that time:
- Improved fuel efficiency within the SUV car body types
- Drive quality similar to a regular sedan
- Flat cargo floor behind the front seats
These innovations and the inclusion of other tech features won more than 100 awards, including ‘SUV of the year’ in the very first year of the Volvo XC90’s history. The entry-level XC90 offered two trims; T5 came with a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine generating 208 hp, whereas T6 boasted 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged engine producing 268 hp.
Besides, the T5 came with front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard and all-wheel drive (AWD) was available as an option. Whereas, the T6 model came with only an AWD system. Also, Volvo came with the following innovations as modern safety features:
- Roll Stability Control (RSC)
- Inflatable side curtains
- Booster cushion seat for children
- Seat belts with tensioners
- A lower cross beam at the front for passengers’ safety in case of front collision
VOLVO XC90 2005 UPDATE
The 2005 SUV model received a major update with the introduction of a 4.4-litre V8 engine in the Volvo XC90 history. Besides, it boasted an output power of 288 hp. Further updates enhanced the power to 311 hp and 440 N-m torque.
VOLVO XC90 SPECIAL EDITION
The first special edition of Volvo XC90, Ocean Race Edition rolled out in 2005. It was distinguished by a unique blue colour with leather and contrast stitching in the interior. Only 800 units were available for sale.
Volvo introduced yet another special edition of the XC90 in 2008. It featured a 3.2-litre engine producing 235 horsepower and paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Before introducing the second generation of Volvo XC90, a Signature edition was introduced in 2013. The Signature Edition featured a 3.2-litre engine with 240 hp. Besides, this special edition was distinguished by its silver skid plate and rockers, directional bi-xenon headlights type, silver mirrors, exclusive diffuser, and 19 inches alloy wheels. Moreover, the custom upholstery leather interior complemented the exterior of this Signature Edition.
Another limited edition of the Volvo XC90 model, the First Edition debuted in 2014 to celebrate the brand’s anniversary. Only 1927 units were available for sale digitally as the brand was launched in 1927. Besides, the First Edition XC90 came with a distinctive badge on the tailgate.
It featured the T6 engine paired with 8-speed automatic transmission. Moreover, the First Edition in the Volvo XC90 history had a black exterior complemented by the amber leather seats.
VOLVO XC90 FACELIFT AND UPDATES (2007-2014)
Continuing its innovation to enhance the safety features and driving experience, Volvo made constant improvements and updates to the XC90 since its inception. For the first time in the Volvo XC90’s history, a facelifted SUV model was released in 2007.
A 3.2-litre engine producing 235 hp replaced the 2.5-litre one. More updates were made to Volvo’s first SUV. For instance, the 2012 Volvo XC90 model received a new LED rear light. Moreover, the 2013 model took the spotlight with LED daytime running lights, new rear lights, and body colour bumpers.
SECOND GENERATION VOLVO XC90 (2014 TO CURRENT)
The design and technology of the second-generation Volvo XC90 took everyone by surprise. It focused more on luxury and comfort. After the introduction of a V8 engine and other technologies in the first generation, Volvo stepped into the electrified universe of cars with the introduction of the hybrid XC90 model.
This generation was a mid-size SUV featuring a 2.0-litre Drive E turbocharged, a 2.0-litre twin turbo, and a 2.0-litre twin turbo plug-in hybrid car. Moreover, Volvo’s investment in Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) technology enhanced the functionality, performance, and fuel efficiency of the XC90.
SECOND GENERATION VOLVO XC90 UPDATE
In 2019, the second generation received a mid-life refresher. It included state-of-the-art safety and infotainment features. Some safety features include active cruise control, pilot drive for autonomous driving, and lane keeping assist. Besides, Apple Carplay and Android Auto further enhanced the infotainment features in the SUV.
That wraps the complete details about the SUV models and their features in the Volvo XC90 history. If you want to buy the all-new Volvo XC90, you can visit Volvo showrooms in the UAE. Besides, you can look for the XC90 and other popular car models in the wide array of used cars for sale in the UAE.
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