Taking things to the new level, the Volvo has launched its first hybrid vehicle XC90 Excellence T8 hybrid in India. Priced at Rs. 1.25 crore (ex-showroom Delhi), the eco-friendly trim is available on the top ranging excellence grade and is the most luxurious offering in brand’s history. Touted as the safest SUV in its segment, it takes on the major players like Mercedes-Benz GLS, Range Rover Sport, BMW X5 and Audi Q7 with none of them getting hybrid motor.
Price:
The most luxurious Volvo SUV comes at a whopping sticker price of Rs. 1.25 Core (ex-showroom Delhi) which includes the price of installation of two charging stations at locations of your preference. The station can charge the SUV in just 2.5 hours with 80 kms per day of emission free driving.
Engine Details:
The SUV draws its power from a 2.0L 4-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor which results in scrumptious power of 407bhp and high torque of 604Nm, linked to an 8-speed automatic gearbox sending power to all four wheels. It can sprint 100km/hr from standstill in just 5.6 seconds. Owners have the option to choose from three driving modes- Pure, hybrid and power with first one will make use of petrol engine only while other two will make use of both petrol and hybrid.
Exterior and Interior:
In terms of design, the hybrid is identical to standard version except for the charging port lid on the left fender, chrome garnished B-C pillars, exclusive alloy rim and lower door mouldings. Besides you get the striking Thor hammer design LED headlamps flanked by huge radiator front grille and waterfall LED tail lamps.
The SUV entirely justifies the excellence tag as it is draped with some high end features like Nappa leather seats with six way adjustability, cool/heat massage functions for all seats, panoramic sunroof with power operation, 20 speakers bowers and Wilkins surround sound system and retractable touchscreen for rear passengers. The central console gets a refrigerator with folding tables, heating/cooling glass holders.
The SUV is bundled with excellence central console which controls almost everything from angle of the seat to temperature of the cabin and heating and cooling of cup holders. It also features huge 12.3 inch touchscreen display with navigation pro and DAB radio.
Interestingly, for the Plug-In Hybrid model, Volvo has opted for a 4-seater configuration instead of the 7-seater available in its diesel sibling. It also loaded with features like leather draped multi function heated steering wheel, USB 12V, 220 V socket, four zone electronic climate control with ionic air purifier, inlay mats with excellence logo, tyres with noise cancellation technology, ambient lighting and range of premium leather options.
Safety:
In the safety segment, it is equipped with plethora of world class features like air Suspension for all 4 wheels, lane departure warning, blind spot detection with cross traffic alert, park pilot assist, rear collision warning, adaptive cruise control, collision warning with full auto braking for pedestrians, large animals and other vehicles. It is also first car in the country to sport radar based safety system. Other features on board are 360 degree camera with bird eye view, road sign information, tire pressure monitoring system.
Mr.Tom von Bonsdorff, Managing Director, Volvo Auto India said, “The XC90 T8 Excellence sets industry benchmarks for environment friendly efficiency and emissions while enveloping customers in first-class Swedish luxury. It is not only a segment-first but India’s first plug-in-hybrid SUV and we see a lot of interest from our more affluent customers, who prefer to experience ‘responsible’ luxury,”
