Volvo made a significant statement in the luxury automotive world with the introduction of the all-new XC90 for 2016. This model wasn’t just an update; it was a complete reimagining of the luxury SUV, blending Volvo’s renowned safety and innovative technology with elevated levels of performance and refinement. A key component of this sophisticated package is the Volvo Xc90 Automatic transmission, designed to deliver a seamless and responsive driving experience.
The XC90 marked the debut of Volvo’s Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), a modular chassis technology representing an $11 billion investment. This platform provided Volvo’s engineers and designers with greater flexibility, resulting in a vehicle boasting striking aesthetics, enhanced driving dynamics, pioneering safety features, advanced connectivity, and a more spacious interior. The SPA architecture also incorporated a cutting-edge electrical system, significantly enhancing the XC90’s “intelligence” to support a suite of driver-assistance and safety technologies.
Upon its launch, the 2016 XC90 was offered in three distinct trim levels: Momentum, Inscription, and R-Design. Each trim catered to different preferences, providing unique exterior and interior styling and varying levels of features.
- Momentum: Positioned as the most broadly appealing XC90, designed to meet the diverse needs of luxury SUV buyers.
- Inscription: Emphasizing premium luxury, focusing on exquisite craftsmanship, superior comfort, and elegant design.
- R-Design: Targeting drivers seeking a sportier and more dynamic SUV, with enhanced visual appeal and a more assertive presence.
The Allure of Volvo Design
The XC90 presented Volvo’s design team with a unique opportunity – a blank canvas to create a vehicle on a completely new platform. They capitalized on this, crafting an SUV with compelling proportions. A key element in luxury vehicle design is the “dash-to-front axle” ratio. The extended distance between the A-pillar and the front wheel arch contributes to the perception of luxury and sophistication, a design cue expertly implemented in the XC90.
Creating a distinctive and memorable “face” for the XC90 was another design priority. The powerful front end design immediately sets the XC90 apart, confidently proclaiming its Volvo identity. This was achieved through careful attention to lighting and grille design.
The LED daytime running lights, shaped like “Thor’s Hammer,” are a signature design element, instantly recognizable and memorable. The grille and Ironmark logo, complete with the diagonal slash, were proportioned to create a more prominent grille. The lower fascia character lines add a touch of drama, reinforcing the XC90’s confident stance.
While embracing a thoroughly modern design language, the XC90 also incorporated classic Volvo design elements:
- Strong Shoulder Line: A continuous shoulder line flows from the front to the rear, enhancing the vehicle’s muscular profile.
- Updated Ironmark: The Volvo Ironmark logo was updated, with the arrow now aligned with the diagonal grille slash for a more cohesive look.
- Vertical Taillights: The distinctive LED taillights emphasize the verticality of the body’s shoulder line, creating a strong and instantly recognizable rear identity.
Adding to the XC90’s appeal, each trim level – Momentum, Inscription, and R-Design – possesses its own distinct visual identity. This is achieved through unique grille treatments, color-enhanced lower body moldings, front spoiler designs, roof rail styles, and lower rear “skid plates,” all contributing to the individual character of each model.
Drive-E Powertrain and the Seamless Automatic Transmission
The XC90’s distinctive character extends beneath the hood, featuring Volvo’s advanced Drive-E powertrain. This system is engineered to provide a compelling combination of lightweight construction, exhilarating performance, and impressive fuel efficiency. Crucially, the Volvo XC90 automatic transmission is integral to this powertrain, ensuring smooth and efficient power delivery.
Every XC90 is powered by a state-of-the-art 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is both supercharged and turbocharged. This engine delivers a robust 316 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque, available across a broad rev range from 2,200 rpm to 4,500 rpm. The compact engine design contributes to the XC90’s fuel economy, reduced emissions, and agile handling.
The supercharger enhances torque at lower and mid-range speeds, providing immediate responsiveness until the turbocharger takes over at higher speeds. Once the turbocharger is engaged, the supercharger disengages to minimize friction and improve efficiency. Turbocharging compresses the air entering the combustion chambers, forcing more air into the engine and generating more power. This sophisticated system allows the smaller 2.0-liter engine to perform like a larger, less efficient engine. Volvo’s expertise in forced induction dates back to 1981, with their first series-production turbocharged car engine.
A critical element of the Drive-E powertrain is the Volvo XC90 automatic transmission. Standard in every XC90, this eight-speed “Geartronic” automatic transmission features two overdrive gears designed to optimize fuel economy and a lock-up function that bypasses the torque converter to minimize energy consumption. The Geartronic transmission offers drivers the choice of fully automatic operation for effortless driving or manual gear selection using the console-mounted shift lever or the R-Design’s steering wheel paddles. The Volvo XC90 automatic transmission is engineered for smooth shifts and intelligent gear selection, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency.
All XC90 models are equipped with Volvo’s electronically controlled All-Wheel Drive system with Instant Traction™. This system employs an efficient, compact, and lightweight fifth-generation coupling to distribute engine power between the front and rear wheels.
Under normal driving conditions on dry roads, the system directs almost all power to the front wheels for optimal fuel efficiency. However, the system continuously monitors traction requirements and can instantly redistribute up to 50 percent of the engine’s power to the rear wheels when needed. When starting from a standstill, full all-wheel drive is engaged to ensure maximum traction for acceleration. This intelligent AWD system works seamlessly with the Volvo XC90 automatic transmission to provide confident handling in various conditions.
Adjustable Drive Mode Settings allow drivers to tailor the XC90’s performance characteristics to their preferences or driving conditions using a rotary knob on the center console. These modes further enhance the driving experience in conjunction with the Volvo XC90 automatic transmission.
- Comfort mode: Increases ride height by 0.4 inches (10mm) for enhanced suspension comfort.
- Eco mode: Optimizes engine, transmission, and climate control settings for maximum fuel efficiency. An eco-coast feature activates when the accelerator is released above 40 mph (64 km/h). XC90s equipped with the optional 4-corner Air Suspension will lower the chassis by 0.8 inches (2cm) at speeds above approximately 43 mph (70 km/h) to improve aerodynamics.
- Dynamic mode: Delivers a sportier driving experience with quicker throttle and transmission response and higher shift points for each gear in the Volvo XC90 automatic transmission. With 4-corner Air Suspension, the chassis lowers by 0.8 inches (2cm) above approximately 84 mph (135 km/h) for improved aerodynamics.
- Off-road mode: Operates at speeds below 25 mph (40 km/h) and disengages at higher speeds. This mode locks the differentials, activates Hill Descent Control, sets steering to comfort mode, optimizes engine and automatic transmission for traction, sets Electronic Stability Control to Traction/Sport, and deactivates the Stop/Start function. With 4-corner Air Suspension, ground clearance increases by 1.6 inches (4cm).
- Individual mode: Allows drivers to customize settings for steering response, drivetrain dynamics, brake pedal feel, and more, providing personalized control over the Volvo XC90 automatic transmission and other vehicle systems.
Advanced Chassis Engineering
The XC90’s innovations continue with its newly engineered chassis, designed to provide both exceptional ride comfort and precise control. Weight reduction and performance optimization were key considerations, with most suspension components, both front and rear, crafted from aluminum.
The front suspension features a new double-wishbone design, attached to the body via two transverse links. This configuration enhances handling and road holding compared to the previous MacPherson strut design, resulting in a more neutral balance, minimized body roll, and reduced understeer. It also helps counteract torque steer, further complementing the performance of the Volvo XC90 automatic transmission.
The integral axle rear suspension is also entirely new, allowing for individual tuning of handling characteristics. XC90 models without the optional 4-corner Air Suspension utilize a strong, lightweight, and compact composite transverse leaf spring in place of traditional coil springs – a design similar to that used in the Chevrolet Corvette, highlighting Volvo’s commitment to advanced engineering.
The optional Four-corner Air Suspension elevates ride comfort, handling, and road holding to superior levels. This system incorporates electronically controlled damping, known as Four-C, which replaces conventional dampers or shock absorbers. Four-C uses a computer-controlled air chamber at each wheel that constantly adjusts to changing road conditions. The hydraulic characteristics of the dampers are measured and controlled up to 500 times per second, ensuring the best possible ride quality.
Automatic leveling, integrated with the Air Suspension, maintains consistent ground clearance regardless of passenger or cargo load. Ride height automatically lowers at higher speeds for improved aerodynamics, and an easy ingress/egress mode lowers the vehicle by 1.6 inches (4cm) for easier access. Drivers can also lower the ride height by 2.0 inches (5cm) when parked, using a button in the cargo compartment, for convenient loading or trailer hitching.
Visual Assistance and Parking Technology
The XC90 offers various parking assistance systems as part of its comprehensive safety suite. Rear Park Assist, with audible alerts, and a rear park assist camera are standard features. The camera, discreetly located under the tailgate handle, provides a clear view behind the vehicle on the center display screen. On-screen guidelines dynamically adjust according to the steering wheel angle, indicating the rear wheels’ path.
Beyond convenience, the rear camera is a significant safety feature. Research indicates a concerning number of back-over accidents involving children, highlighting the importance of enhanced rear visibility, especially in larger vehicles like the XC90.
Park Assist Pilot represents an evolution of the system previously available on the S60 and V60. It adds front and side sensors to Park Assist and can autonomously manage steering during parking maneuvers, while the driver retains control of acceleration, braking, and gear selection of the Volvo XC90 automatic transmission. This system simplifies both parallel and perpendicular parking.
An even more advanced parking aid is the optional 360-degree camera. This system provides a bird’s-eye view of the XC90’s surroundings (at speeds up to 6 mph or 10 km/h) on the center screen, generated by four hidden cameras located in the front Volvo badge, side mirrors, and tailgate.
The 360-degree view is digitally processed to create a seamless, top-down perspective of the car’s immediate environment. By swiping on the touchscreen, drivers can also select individual views from the front or rear cameras, providing enhanced visibility when maneuvering in restricted spaces or blind junctions.
Front park assist, included with the Park Assist Pilot option, uses ultrasonic sensors in the lower front grilles to measure the distance to obstacles within approximately 2.5 feet (0.8 m) at speeds below 6 mph (10 km/h). Distance to obstacles is graphically displayed on the center screen, and an audible warning intensifies as the XC90 approaches an object, becoming constant at 11.8 inches (0.3 m).
Scandinavian Interior Sanctuary
The XC90’s interior is Volvo’s most luxurious to date, designed around the “Designed Around You” philosophy, prioritizing the needs of both driver and passengers. Recognizing the XC90’s appeal to families, particular attention was paid to passenger comfort, especially in the second and third rows, as well as intelligent space utilization, versatility, and ease of use.
Volvo seats have long been recognized for their comfort and support, and the XC90 introduces an entirely new generation of seats. To maximize second-row legroom, the backrests were designed to be as slim as possible through the development of a completely new frame and seatback structure. The new seat design also contributes to enhanced safety.
Second-row seats are designed for both comfort and maximum flexibility. Each seat is contoured in the seatback and cushion for enhanced support. Individual backrests recline, and each seat can slide independently to optimize legroom or cargo space. The seats are configured in a 40/20/40 split, allowing for long items to be accommodated via the folding center seat while maintaining two full-sized outboard seating positions.
An integrated child booster cushion is available as an option for the second-row center position. The sliding seat allows for convenient positioning closer to the front seats, improving access for the driver and front passenger. This booster seat is designed for children weighing between 33 to 79 lbs. (15 to 36 kg).
The standard four-zone climate system offers enhanced comfort and individual control for second-row passengers. A touchscreen panel on the floor console allows outboard passengers to independently adjust temperature and fan speed. Optional heated rear seats are also controlled via this touchscreen. The four-zone ECC system also includes a cooled front glovebox for beverage chilling.
The XC90’s standard third-row seat provides uncompromised comfort and space, offering a class-leading 31.9 inches of legroom. The two individual seats are generously proportioned and feature full-sized seatbacks similar to those in the second row. A separate air conditioning unit ensures rapid cooling in the third row. Third-row cushions remain in place when the seats are folded, creating a completely flat load floor.
Paying tribute to Volvo’s safety heritage, “Since 1959” is engraved on the tongue of the front seatbelt buckles, commemorating the year Volvo pioneered the three-point safety belt, a constant reminder of this significant milestone for both driver and passenger every time they buckle up.
The steering wheel design complements the overall aesthetic and image of the XC90. Two color families are available to match interior palettes: a Charcoal leather-wrapped wheel paired with Charcoal interiors, and Charcoal and Blond matched with Blond interiors.
The R-Design steering wheel features a distinctive four-split design, clad in Charcoal perforated leather, with silk metal accents and an “R-Design” emblem. Steering wheel shift paddles for manual gear changes of the Volvo XC90 automatic transmission are also included in the R-Design trim.
Beautiful interior inlays grace the dashboard, center console, tunnel console, and doors. Material selections include Cross Brushed Aluminum as standard on Momentum, Linear Walnut Wood on Inscription, and Metal Mesh Aluminum for R-Design. Dark Flame Birch inlays are optional on Momentum, while Carbon Fiber inlays are optional for R-Design.
Standard Keyless Entry and Drive eliminates the need for a physical key slot. The engine is started by turning the Start knob on the center console while depressing the brake pedal.
For added convenience, keyless entry and a hands-free power tailgate are standard. Approaching the XC90 with the keyfob in a pocket or purse unlocks the doors. Dedicated door handles with “invisible” buttons also include puddle lights. The hands-free power tailgate opens automatically with a wave of the foot under the left side of the bumper, simplifying cargo loading when hands are full.
The cargo area offers generous space and intelligent loading features. Maximum cargo volume with the second- and third-row seats folded is an expansive 85.7 cu. ft. A power-operated tailgate with a soft-close feature provides convenient access. A semi-automatic cargo cover retracts partially when its handle is depressed, facilitating easy loading. A hidden storage compartment under the load floor includes a divided storage tray for smaller or valuable items.
Advanced Sensus Connect Technology
The XC90’s new Sensus user interface represents the most advanced in-car control system available. Volvo’s interior design philosophy focused on creating a safer environment by implementing a more intuitive interface that is both user-friendly and aesthetically refined.
Sensus provides seamless access to a wide array of cloud-based applications, including internet radio, connected navigation, parking finder and payment, music streaming, smartphone mirroring via Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ (later introduction), and a Wi-Fi hotspot for in-car tablet use, among other features.
Volvo designers recognized that increasing the number of convenience features often leads to cluttered dashboards with numerous buttons. Traditional premium vehicles could have up to 30 buttons spread across the dashboard, making it challenging and distracting for drivers to locate and operate controls.
The solution was to reduce button clutter rather than add to it. Designers reimagined the center console with a central touchscreen display that could be controlled not only by touch but also via voice activation and steering wheel controls.
In the XC90, most physical buttons are replaced by a sleek and elegant 9-inch touchscreen control panel. This large, vertically oriented touchscreen minimizes scrolling compared to horizontal screens found in competitors. Light Control Film anti-reflective coating ensures deep contrast and minimizes glare and reflections. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) technology delivers a high pixel density, resulting in one of the highest resolution screens in a vehicle.
Advanced touchscreen technology employs an infrared film around the screen perimeter. The system detects touch input when a finger breaks the infrared plane. Advantages include excellent picture quality, reduced screen wear as pressure is not required, and operation even while wearing gloves.
Volvo’s information organization method differentiates it from competitors, presenting information in a logical and highly intuitive manner. The need for separate external control devices like joysticks, knobs, or console-mounted touchpads is eliminated.
The central control panel integrates with an adaptive digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, and critical information can be projected onto the lower portion of the windshield via the available Head-up Display (HUD).
Information on the center touchscreen is organized into a stack of four “tiles,” each representing a key function:
- Navigation
- Media
- Phone
- User-defined Tile (e.g., Apple CarPlay™)
A thin information band at the top displays status information (phone signal strength, clock, etc.), and digital climate controls are located at the bottom. Feature or app “buttons” can be easily relocated and reorganized on the screen.
Activating a tile expands it to provide more detailed information, while the other tiles compress but remain visible. This user-friendly interface eliminates the need to navigate through complex menu trees.
The vertical screen orientation offers advantages, including a more logical information presentation, reduced scrolling, more natural navigation map display showing more of the route ahead, and easy menu access via home screen swipes.
Eight physical buttons remain on the center console below the touchscreen, grouped for ease of use, controlling hazard lights, heated windshield, heated rearview mirrors and rear window, forward/backward movement, temperature sensor, and glovebox release.
The instrument cluster in front of the driver is a customizable digital display. The screen appears glossy black when inactive and features a dramatic start-up sequence when activated.
A graphical 12.3-inch display replaces the traditional dashboard in all XC90 models. This display includes two large round gauges with a central information area that dynamically adjusts in size depending on the information being displayed. For instance, when navigation is in use, the central information area expands, and the round gauges become smaller.
Sensus Audio and Navigation Systems
Two levels of audio systems are designed to deliver optimal sound quality, with acoustics specifically tuned for the XC90’s cabin. The standard Sensus High Performance Audio system includes a six-channel amplifier delivering 330 watts to 10 speakers, providing a high-quality audio experience for all occupants, including those in the third row.
The available Premium Sound by Bowers & Wilkins represents one of the highest quality automotive audio systems on the market. Bowers & Wilkins is a renowned premium audio brand, favored by Abbey Road Studios.
In the XC90, this system delivers an astonishing 1,400 watts to 19 strategically placed speakers throughout the cabin. “Room Transformation” technology, developed with Dirac Research, allows for recreating the acoustics of specific spaces within the car. Drivers can select from three room modes: “Studio,” “Individual Stage,” and “Gothenburg Concert Hall.”
A newly designed, ultra-thin subwoofer is integrated into the vehicle’s architecture, positioned by the rear wheel arch. An opening in the wheel arch allows the subwoofer to move more air, producing extremely low bass tones down to 20 Hz, delivering a movie theater-like audio experience.
The large, portrait-format center screen, combined with 3D graphics and natural speech voice control, makes the XC90’s navigation system highly user-friendly.
Standard Sensus Navigation maps are clearly displayed on the center screen. Enhanced map details are also provided in the 12.3-inch digital dashboard and the optional heads-up display. Free lifetime map updates are available via the USB port.
Drivers have access to Volvo’s fully integrated, connected navigation system with features including SiriusXM Travel Link. Real Time Traffic helps drivers reach their destinations more efficiently and with less stress.
Volvo and Apple collaborated to integrate Apple CarPlay™ into the XC90. Apple CarPlay™ seamlessly integrates iPhones (version 5 or later), allowing access to selected functionalities and apps via the large center touchscreen. iPhone control is possible through the touchscreen or Siri voice commands via the XC90’s audio system.
The XC90 was the first Volvo to offer Apple CarPlay™, and it was also made available as a retrofit for earlier 2016 XC90 models.
An Android Auto™ interface was under development and introduced later, further enhancing the XC90’s in-car experience. Android Auto™ provides access to Google Search, Google Maps, Google Play Music, and optimized third-party applications like Spotify. All phone-based applications can be controlled via voice, steering wheel controls, or the car’s touchscreen, ensuring safe and easy interaction with Android Auto content.
IntelliSafe: Pioneering Safety Technology
The new SPA architecture, with its increased structural strength and advanced electrical system, enabled Volvo to develop innovative safety features, reinforcing its leadership in automotive safety and supporting its Vision 2020 – aiming for no fatalities or serious injuries in new Volvos by 2020.
Volvo’s holistic approach to safety centers on real-world traffic situations. Occupant protection is paramount, with solutions designed for intelligent energy absorption in various collision types. Advanced camera, radar, and sensor technologies are employed to detect a wider range of objects around the vehicle and provide support at higher speeds and in more diverse situations, including intersections.
The XC90 boasts the most comprehensive and technologically advanced standard safety package in the automotive industry. It includes existing Volvo safety technologies that revolutionized SUV safety, such as Roll Stability Control – a world-first application. Even years after its introduction, the XC90 remains one of the few SUVs capable of actively preventing rollover accidents, rather than just mitigating their consequences.
Additional IntelliSafe safety technologies include:
- Electronic Stability Control
- Understeer Control Logic – minimizing understeer
- Engine Drag Control
- Advanced Stability Control with Torque Vectoring
- Road Sign Information
- Driver Alert and Lane Departure Warning
- Automatic braking after collision – Automatically applies brakes after a collision involving safety belt pretensioners or airbag activation to prevent secondary collisions.
City Safety, a comprehensive umbrella term for all collision avoidance functionalities, encompasses features previously known as City Safety and Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake.
Studies indicate that a significant percentage of drivers involved in collisions do not attempt to avoid the collision, underscoring the importance of active safety technologies like City Safety.
A compact combined radar and camera unit behind the windshield detects vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, both day and night. If City Safety determines a collision is imminent, it warns the driver with a head-up light in the windshield, an audible warning, and a short brake pulse, while simultaneously preparing the brake system and safety belts for maximum effectiveness. If the driver fails to react or reacts too late, City Safety autonomously applies the brakes.
City Safety is active at speeds above 2.5 mph (4 km/h) and is designed to avoid or mitigate three types of collisions involving vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians:
- Avoiding or mitigating collisions with other vehicles: Accidents with other vehicles can be avoided at relative speed differences up to 31 mph (50 km/h). At higher speeds, collision severity is mitigated. The driver can take control and brake or steer at any time. If a collision is imminent, safety belts and brakes are pre-tensioned for maximum effectiveness if the driver takes action.
- Avoiding collisions at intersections: A world-first technology. The XC90 is the first vehicle globally with automatic braking if the driver turns in front of an oncoming vehicle. This addresses common intersection accidents, both in urban environments and on highways. The XC90 detects potential crashes and automatically brakes to avoid or mitigate collision consequences.
- Avoiding or mitigating collisions with cyclists: If a cyclist swerves into or crosses the XC90’s path, or is stationary in the path, the system warns the driver and automatically brakes if no action is taken. Collisions with cyclists can be avoided at speeds up to 31 mph (50 km/h) and a speed differential between the car and cyclist of 25 mph (40 km/h). At higher speed differentials, collision severity is mitigated.
- Avoiding or mitigating collisions with pedestrians: If a pedestrian moves into or crosses the XC90’s path, or is stationary in the path, the system warns the driver and automatically brakes if no action is taken. Collisions with pedestrians can be avoided at speeds up to 28 mph (45 km/h). For speeds between 29 – 50 mph (46 – 80 km/h), collision severity is mitigated. Nighttime cyclist and pedestrian detection is a new feature of City Safety on the XC90.
Run-off Road Protection: Another world-first technology. Run-off road accidents are common, often caused by driver distraction, fatigue, or adverse weather. These accidents contribute significantly to traffic fatalities.
Volvo developed Safe Positioning to mitigate injuries in run-off road scenarios. Safe Positioning in the XC90 encompasses:
- Run-off Road Detection and Belt Tightening: The system detects run-off road events and tightens front safety belts to secure occupants. Belts remain tightened as long as the vehicle is in motion.
- Energy-Absorbing Seat Cushioning: To help prevent spinal injuries, energy-absorbing material between the seat and seat frame cushions vertical forces arising from hard landings in off-road terrain. This system can reduce vertical occupant forces by up to one-third, mitigating spine injuries, which are common in these types of accidents.
Road Sign Information: Uses the windshield camera to recognize a wide range of traffic signs (speed limits, prohibition signs) and displays them in the speedometer or Head-up Display as a visual reminder for the driver.
Seats, Seat Belts, and Airbags: The XC90’s newly designed seats feature exceptionally strong frames constructed from various steel grades. The front seats are engineered to absorb high-energy loads even in severe accidents – another world-first. This design allows the front seats to absorb high vertical loads that can occur in certain types of accidents, reducing vertical forces on occupants by up to one-third.
The new front seats also incorporate the latest iteration of Volvo’s WHIPS Whiplash Injury Protection System.
Three-point safety belts with pretensioners are standard for all seven occupants. The upper safety belt mounting points in the third row are specially designed for optimal shoulder protection.
Airbags complement the safety belt system, including front airbags and side airbags integrated into the front seat backrests. Inflatable Curtains, integrated into the roof lining above the doors and rear side windows, provide optimal protection for second- and third-row passengers. The XC90 also includes a driver-side knee airbag.
Stability and Brake Systems: DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control) is now referred to as ESC (Electronic Stability Control). Volvo’s ESC system retains the same functions as before, individually tuned and calibrated for each Volvo model.
Automatic brake activation – collisions: In the event of a collision that triggers safety belt pretensioners or airbags, the car’s brakes are automatically applied to help prevent secondary damage.
The brake pedal features a new design. In a frontal collision, sensors triggering safety belt pretensioners and frontal airbags also activate a pyrotechnic device that releases the brake pedal, reducing the risk of injury to the driver’s right foot and leg.
IntelliSafe Surround encompasses optional driver support features:
BLIS with Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Collision Mitigation: Active above 7 mph (12 km/h), Blind Spot Information System uses radar units in the rear bumper corners to measure distance to vehicles approaching from behind.
- A light in the side mirror warns the driver of approaching vehicles.
- A constant light indicates a rapidly approaching vehicle in adjacent lanes up to 230 ft. (70m).
- If the driver ignores the warning and activates the turn signal to change lanes, the warning light flashes.
- The system can be deactivated via the center control panel.
Cross Traffic Alert: Simplifies reversing out of parking spaces by detecting and warning of approaching vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians from either side.
- Emits an audible warning and displays a visual warning on the center screen.
- Active up to 98 ft. (30m) for vehicles, and shorter distances for cyclists and pedestrians.
Enhancements compared to radar-based BLIS in other Volvos:
- Warning light location and function are modified.
- Addition of Rear Collision Mitigation.
- If the XC90 is stationary and a rear-end collision is imminent, the system pre-tensions seatbelts and applies full automatic braking to prevent the vehicle from being pushed into another car or intersection, potentially worsening the situation.
IntelliSafe Assist groups features utilizing the camera and radar integrated behind the windshield:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Pilot Assist: Ideal for highway driving and daily commutes. ACC reduces driving stress, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
- Cruise control with automatic speed adjustment to maintain distance from slower vehicles ahead. The radar unit in the windshield detects vehicles ahead. If the vehicle in front slows or stops, ACC brings the XC90 to a stop comfortably behind it and holds the brakes. If the lead vehicle stops for less than six seconds, the XC90 automatically resumes following when the lead vehicle moves.
- Drivers can select from five following distance time gaps using steering wheel buttons and driver display graphics.
- Other cruise control functions and controls are standard. ACC can be turned on or off at any time.
- When ACC is active above 43 mph (70 km/h), and the driver signals to overtake, ACC briefly accelerates the XC90 toward the vehicle ahead.
Pilot Assist function: Enhances Adaptive Cruise Control. The XC90 maintains set speed and distance to the vehicle ahead and provides steering support to keep the car within the lane. It reduces the driver’s workload in low-speed traffic.
- Operates at “queue speeds” below 30 mph (50 km/h).
- Uses the windshield camera and radar to monitor the car’s position relative to lane markings and the vehicle ahead, making light steering adjustments to stay within lane markings if no turn signal is used.
- Maintains lane position with light steering torque, based on lane markings and the vehicle ahead. Driver must keep hands on the steering wheel.
- If Pilot Assist is deactivated below 30 mph (50 km/h), Adaptive Cruise Control still maintains speed and distance, but steering corrections are disabled.
Distance Alert: Reduces collision risk with vehicles ahead and provides a less stressful driving experience by warning the driver if the XC90 gets too close to the vehicle in front.
- Monitors distance to the vehicle ahead above 16 mph (30 km/h) when Adaptive Cruise Control is not in use.
- Distance Alert can be deactivated in the center display settings menu.
- Five following time gaps can be selected using the same steering wheel buttons as Adaptive Cruise Control.
- If the driver gets closer than the set time gap, an amber warning light appears on the windshield (from head-up LEDs) or as a symbol in the Head-up Display.
Lane Keeping Aid: Actively assists the driver by steering the XC90 back into its lane if it begins to drift, due to driver inattention or other reasons. The system first attempts to prompt driver intervention with clear warnings if the car approaches a lane marking.
- Helps keep the vehicle in its lane by gently steering it back to the center if it nears a lane marking. Intervention occurs if the system senses the driver is not driving ‘actively’ (e.g., not using turn signals).
- Uses the windshield camera and radar and requires visible lane markings.
- Highly customizable system; can be turned on or off in the center display menu, and audible or haptic (steering wheel vibration) warnings can be selected.
- If steering intervention is insufficient, or if the driver steers into the other lane, vibrations in the steering wheel or a warning sound alert the driver.
In conclusion, the 2016 Volvo XC90, particularly the Volvo XC90 automatic variant, represents a significant leap forward in the luxury SUV segment. Its sophisticated automatic transmission, combined with a powerful and efficient engine, advanced chassis, and groundbreaking safety and technology features, delivers a driving experience that is both refined and confidence-inspiring. The XC90 is a testament to Volvo’s commitment to innovation and its dedication to creating vehicles that are not only luxurious and enjoyable to drive but also exceptionally safe.
