+ Click to Enlarge HOT STUFF: Only the Sport will be available in this special red.

July 13, 2006

Volvo is adding another model to its XC90 SUV range - an XC90 Sport with more dynamic chassis settings and special trim that will reach South Africa near the end of 2006.

Volvo Special Vehicles head Karin Falk said: "We have had numerous requests for a sportier XC90 from customers who appreciate the versatility of an SUV but want a bit more driving pleasure.

"So we developed the Sport especially for them with stiffer anti-roll bars, firmer shock-absorbers, a sport-tuned, speed-dependent power-steering and 19" alloy rims."

The steering ratio has been modified for quicker response and both the five and seven-seat models will have a self-levelling system fine-tuned for stability and driving control.

"The driving characteristics are of a calibre that few thought were possible in a Volvo SUV," Falk added, "and we have not had to compromise on ride comfort.

"We found a balance between driving stability and the capacity to absorb unevenness in the road.”

Distinctive exterior

The XC90 Sport will be launched in a model-specific red with chromed double exhaust pipes, 19" alloy rims and body-colour wheelarch extenders.

Details and trim will have a satin finish rather than the standard chromed; the skid plate wil be satin silver and the sill mouldings brushed stainless-steel. The roof rails have been removed to accentuate the car's sporty nature but will be available as a option.

The interior design has a more sporty character with leather steering wheel and gearshifter and sports seats with additional lateral support, upholstered in a combination of two grades of leather with contrasting piping.

The instruments have metal chronograph watch-style faces with blue backlighting.

Engine options

The Sport will be available with Volvo's 232kW V8 or a new 3.2-litre, six-cylinder petrol engine and the new 136kW D5 turbodiesel, each transversely mounted for the best possible safety and a spacious cabin.

Standard XC90 models with the new 3.2 straight-six and D5 engines are already available in South Africa; the V8 version is expected in October. The XC90 Sport with all three engine options is scheduled for SA release before the end of 2006.

Engine specifications at a glance

V8 petrol:
Capacity: 4.4 litres.
Power: 232kW
Torque: 440Nm

Six-cylinder petrol:
Capacity: 3.2 litres.
Power: 175kW
Torque: 320Nm

D5 diesel:
Capacity: 2.4 litres.
Power: 136kW
Torque: 400Nm

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