Model Overview: 2012 Volvo XC90
07/07/2011
Volvo
Volvo's flagship XC90 premium SUV is designed for uncompromising individuals and families seeking a vehicle to match their active lifestyles. The XC90 provides standard seating for seven passengers, extensive luxury features, satisfying performance and versatile cargo space. As a Volvo, the XC90 continues a legacy of safety with features including a standard integrated center child booster cushion for the second-row seat.
For 2012, the XC90 is offered in six-cylinder 3.2 and R-Design with standard front- or optional all-wheel drive. Volvo's new trim level strategy gives customers the flexibility to add additional features. These new trim levels contain previously optional equipment that has been grouped together for convenience. Buyers can still choose the base XC90 3.2 and R-Design, or move up to the new Premier Plus and Platinum trim levels for each.
Selecting the new Premier Plus trim level adds a grocery bag holder, compass integrated into the inside rear view mirror and Homelink remote garage door opener. Also included for the 3.2 only are active dual xenon gas discharge headlights and a Classic Walnut wood gearshift knob.
The new Platinum trim level includes all the features of Premier Plus while adding more technology. It gains the Volvo Premium Sound System with Dolby(R) Pro Logic(R) II Surround Sound, 12 premium speakers and 650 watts. Also included is a Navigation System with real time traffic, remote control and map care plus a rear park assist camera.
Customers retain the flexibility to add the Climate Packages to any XC90, as well as select individual items from a list of stand-alone options.
The Climate Package includes heated front seats, headlight washers, rainsensor windshield wipers and an Interior Air Quality System (IAQS).
Individual options for the XC90 feature a dual screen rear seat entertainment system, Volvo's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), a Classic Walnut wood steering wheel for the 3.2 and various shades of metallic paint.
Other changes for 2012 include an audio streaming connection for standard Bluetooth. Drivers can listen to music from their compatible cell phones via the XC90's audio system. They can create playlists using Pandora or Grooveshark, synchronize with the phone and then play them wirelessly using Bluetooth.
An array of exclusive exterior and interior styling upgrades gives the R-Design a more sporting look while tuned suspension and steering offer an enhanced driving character. Included is a unique R-Design grille, leather seating surfaces with embossed R-Design logo on the front seats, an R-Design steering wheel, watch dial instruments and floor mats. For 2012, the R-Design adds two standard features that were previously part of an option package: 20-inch "Cratus" alloy wheels and active dual xenon gas discharge headlights.
The XC90's advanced 3.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant that utilizes the latest technology to maintain the same exterior dimension and fuel consumption as a five-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 240 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque. It achieves performance and economy thanks to Variable Cam Timing (VCT) and Cam Profile Switching (CPS). With CPS, the intake valves can be lifted to different heights depending on engine revs and load - a lower lift for economical driving and a higher one for more power.
A six-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission is standard. All-wheel drive with Instant Traction is optional on all XC90s. This traction enhancing system employs computer-controlled Haldex AWD that instantaneously delivers up to 50 percent more torque to the rear axle only when needed, such as during takeoff.
Adhering to Volvo's core value of safety, all XC90s are equipped with an extensive array of safety features. Roll Stability Control (RSC), Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) with side airbags and Inflatable Curtains for all three rows are standard.