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In response to customer demand, Volvo Cars is expanding its popular XC90 range with a new variant -- the Volvo XC90 V8 Sport. With a dynamic chassis setting, unique appearance, interior specification upgrades, and sport-tuned suspension, the Volvo XC90 V8 Sport offers the driver more enjoyable handling and dynamic desirability.

"We have had numerous requests for a sportier XC90," says Susanna Johnsson, Product Manager of Special Vehicles at Volvo Car Corporation. "They are from customers who
appreciate the versatility and comfort of an SUV but who also want a bit more driving pleasure. We have developed the Volvo XC90 V8 Sport especially for them, with a dynamic sport chassis, stiffer anti-roll bars, firmer shock absorbers, a sport-tuned, speed-dependent steering system, and larger, 19" wheels," she continued.

"Pricing and positioning in this extremely competitive segment are integral to success," said Anne Belec, president and CEO, Volvo Cars of North America. "Volvo redefined the SUV segment with the introduction of the XC90, and we have continued to refine the process."

Sporty driving characteristics with a stiffened chassis

The Volvo XC90 Sport is not only sporty in aesthetic terms. The chassis characteristics have been refined to increase genuine driving pleasure. Both the shock absorbers and the anti-roll bars have been made stiffer to offer a high level of stability when cornering. The steering has also been adapted to offer quick steering response. Furthermore, Volvo''s self-leveling system, Nivomat, is standard in this seven Seat model. The system has been fine-tuned to offer great stability and driving control.

"We dare to promise a truly enjoyable experience behind the wheel of a Volvo XC90 Sport," says Susanna Johnsson. "The driving characteristics are of a caliber that few thought were possible in a Volvo SUV. And we have not had to compromise on riding comfort. We have succeeded in finding a balance between driving stability and the capacity to absorb unevenness in the road."

Distinctive and sporty exterior

The Volvo XC90 Sport will be launched with 2 colors that are unique for this XC90 variant -- Passion Red and Electric Silver -- plus double chromed exhaust pipes and larger 19" alloy sport wheels -- available in silver bright, with body color-matched wheel arch extenders, which help emphasize the presence of the large wheels.

Details and trim will have a matte silver finish rather than the standard chrome, and the lower skid plate, as well as the roof rails are also matte silver. The unique sill moldings are in brushed stainless steel.

Sport decor and upholstery

The interior design is customized with a more sporting character with a sport steering wheel and gear selector of perforated leather plus sports seats with additional lateral cushioning to support the driver during cornering.

The leather in the seats is a combination of two different choices of leather which provide a sporting, exclusive feel. The decor piping in a different shade also enhances the sporting impression.

The instrument dials have metal chronograph watch-style faces with a shimmering blue luster. The sport carpets with creme-colored decor piping complete the picture of a sporty interior with an exciting hi-tech feel.

V8 engine

The power train for the Volvo XC90 Sport is Volvo''s V8 (311 hp). This very powerful and energy-efficient engine contributes to the sporty driving experience. The engine, first seen in the 2006 XC90, is extremely compact and is transversely mounted in the engine bay for the best possible safety as well as cabin spaciousness.

In addition to the standard V8 option package offer, the XC90 V8 Sport adds one new option package, the Technology Package. The Technology Package complements the dynamic features of the XC90 V8 Sport by offering Active Bi-xenon GDL Headlamps, Dynaudio Sound System, and Sirius Satellite radio in one option package exclusive to XC90 V8 Sport.

The limited production 2007 XC90 V8 Sport arrives at Volvo showrooms during the 4th Quarter of 2006.

* pricing does not include destination charges of $695.

Friday, October 20, 2006 3:50 AM | Comments