Volvo is preparing an all-new version of its flagship model. Not only that SUV is getting a fresh look, but also the most advanced technology the market has ever seen. According to the latest information, the 2021 Volvo XC90 is coming with an all-electric drivetrain. It is an upgrade for the current PHEV version. This motor will also bring improvements in the self-driving sector. Level 4 is expected from the next-gen autonomous drive.
The XC90 is already one of the most popular luxury SUVs in the market, on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Swedish carmaker was always ahead of its time and it is setting new standards every time the new model comes out. It will be with 2021 Volvo XC90 when it gets the latest electric powerplant with the self-driving system. Both range and the level of the autonomous drive are going to challenge the entire class, keeping the Swedish manufacturer very close to Tesla’s offer.
2021 Volvo XC90 Electric
The new generation of the 2021 Volvo XC90 will ride on the SPA2 platform. The upgraded architecture is capable of using an all-electric drivetrain. Designers had a task to make the chassis compatible with such units and it seems they easily done it. The carmaker will also improve the existing lineup of engines with internal combustion, both petrol and diesel. Volvo was one of the leaders in the market already, and the all-electric model will boost its status.
These are not rumors any more since Hakan Samuelson confirmed the information about the XC90. The priority is an electric motor and Volvo’s CEO spoke about other upgrades for the next season. But, we will stick to the SUV class. The SPA2 is not ready yet, but the development is in the final stages. The drivetrain is new, while the look is going to be redesigned.
Autonomous Drive
Volvo keeps its promises, and chiefs said that Level 4 autonomous drive is the future of its SUVs. Well, currently, we see no Level 3 and 2+ is the best you can get with Tesla Model X. The Swedish carmaker is not the only one that jumps to this level straight away since the difference between Lvl4 and Lvl3 is small. BMW and Nissan plan to do the same. Tesla won’t be too late after any of them.
Most experts consider this level as a self-driving mode. That means the vehicle is going to be able to cruise in urban areas, but when the traffic is light. The most advanced handles are saved for Level 5. On Level 4, human interference is minimal. The car does mostly all, but attention is needed for unpredicted situations.
Source: Motor1
2021 Volvo XC90 Specs
The rest of the lineup will remain the same. There are T5, T6, and T8 PHEV configurations. All of them are based on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder drivetrain. The base configuration comes with 250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The power is distributed to the front or all wheels. The other option is consuming more fuel, and that is the segment where 2021 Volvo XC90 needs improvements. A T6 is an AWD model with 315 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. The supercharged unit sends power to wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
The T8 is a plug-in hybrid with a larger battery pack than before. The net output of the system is 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, while the XC90 T8 is able to run by using only an electric unit. However, you won’t go too far with it, since the range is only 20 miles. On the other hand, if you need more, the XC90 EV is going to offer probably ten times more.
Which 2021 Volvo XC90 Is the Best?
There are three versions of the SUV for the next season. The base model comes with the Momentum package. It uses 19-inch wheels and a hands-free power gate. The Pro Pilot self-driving features will be available for non-electric models. the center of the infotainment system is a 9-inch display and 12-inch dashboard, fully-digital.
The 2021 Volvo XC90 R-Design is the best offer as the mid-range model. It combines some advanced elements, but it doesn’t cost as much as the Inscription package. The R-Design is using Harman Kardon audio and Nappa leather inside the cabin, and 20-inch wheels as the exterior highlight. The Inscription is coming with ventilated seats, genuine leather, and rear sun curtains.
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Release Date
The COVID-19 pandemic slowed down the development, but it is not stopping. However, the current situation will prolong the debut of the 2021 Volvo CX90 and its electric unit. The new design in combination with such technology will make a serious impact on the market. We will see how will Lincoln and Lexus respond. Also, BMW is not letting it go, since the new X5 is coming with iNext underpinnings.