NEW YORK, NY – At the 2017 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), Volvo bolstered its vehicle lineup by showing off two upcoming 2018 models in the mid-size S90 sedan and XC60 compact crossover.
The S90 is a refresh to the vehicle launched back in 2016 when it made the official conversion over from its outgoing S80 nameplate. On the other hand, the XC60 is an all-new second-generation version that's 12-cm longer in wheelbase and more technologically-advanced.
Both these models are built on the same new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform that helped make its 2016 mid-size XC90 crossover the North American Truck & Utility Vehicle of the Year. The use of this new clean-slate platform has brought about the flexibility, to produce a modern, sleek and athletic design that made many heads turn on the NYIAS show floor.
According to Lex Kerssemakers, SVP Americas and president and CEO of Volvo Cars USA, Volvo's clean-slate plan was in the works before Geely acquired the company. “Even before Geely took over, some big decisions were made and a clear strategy formed by 2010. We focused our attention exclusively towards four-cylinder turbo technology, as well as electrification.”
Beyond their design language, both the S90 and XC60 share the same powertrains. Both models will offer three choices all showcasing Volvo's 2.0-litre engine: a turbocharged 250 hp T5; a supercharged and turbocharged 316 hp T6; and an electrified T8 plug-in hybrid that develops total of 400 hp. All offerings come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel-drive capability in Canada.
Vehicle trims have not been specified for the S90, but the XC60 will come in Momentum (T5, T6), R-Design (T6, T8) and Inscription (T6, T8) models.
Volvo, which has always been a safety leader, offers two new safety features for the crossover: Steer Assist and Oncoming Lane Mitigation. Steer Assist aids in mitigating head-on collisions, while Oncoming Lane Mitigation uses Steer Assist and its Blind Spot Information System to reduce the risk of lane-changing collisions.
S90 Sedan
The 2018 S90 has become segment-leading in terms of rear-seat legroom with a 115-mm extension that now totals 1,026 mm, allowing the Swedish brand to put a check mark over its competition that includes the BMW 5-Series, Audi A6, Jaguar XF and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
A new panoramic sunroof has been included and standardized for that expected touch of luxury. The sunroof allows light inside for occupants to enjoy the smooth and relaxing ambiance that the clean soft-leather instrument panel, wood-grain finishes and metallic accents provide.
Volvo is now on a roll churning out stylish new models that saw a 27.5% increase in year-over-year sales in Canada. Geely has been patient throughout with a long-term vision in mind – a rarity in this age of instant gratification.
The 2018 Volvo XC60 will arrive in showrooms in the fall starting at $45,900, while the 2018 S90 will be available earlier in the second half of the year with a starting price to follow closer to its release.
