Model Overview: 2013 Volvo XC90

01/04/2012

Volvo

For the 2013 model year, the delightfully refreshed Volvo XC90 receives a bold new look along with an enhanced roster of standard features inside and out. The result is the most significantly updated XC90 since its launch a decade ago as one of the first luxury crossover SUVs.

A fully color-coordinated exterior makes the XC90 look sleeker and lower to the ground. Design elements include new body color front and rear bumpers, sill moldings and wheel arches. Enhancing the visual magnetism are new standard LED daytime running lights and taillights. The XC90 3.2 also receives a new silver front bumper bar, chrome taillight trim, silk matte exterior rearview mirrors, air intake decor trim and 18-inch Thalia alloy wheels. Twilight Bronze metallic and Flaminco Red metallic are new color choices.

The XC90 3.2's cabin gains exquisite luxury accents including sanded silver aluminum inlays, white instrumentation lighting and a leather strap on the tailgate. Premier Plus and Platinum trim levels receive standard Sovereign hide soft leather seating surfaces, classic walnut wood inlays and gearshift knob and Executive floor mats. A classic walnut wood steering wheel is a new option for both trim levels. All XC90s gain standard rain sensor windshield wipers and headlight washers.

Meanwhile, the XC90 R-Design also benefits from a fully color-coordinated exterior plus LED daytime running lights and taillights. New 19-inch Ixion alloy wheels amplify its sporting appeal. The R-Design continues to feature sport-tuned suspension and steering for an enhanced driving character, plus 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.

Volvo's flagship XC90 premium SUV provides standard seating for seven passengers, satisfying performance from its six-cylinder engine, front or optional all-wheel drive and versatile cargo space. As a Volvo, the XC90 upholds a legacy of safety with features including a standard integrated center child booster cushion for the second-row seat.

Volvo's trim level strategy gives customers the flexibility to add additional features. Buyers can select the base XC90 3.2 and R-Design, or move up to the Premier Plus and Platinum trim levels for each.

For example, the Platinum trim level includes the Volvo Premium Sound System with Dolby(R) Pro Logic(R) II Surround Sound, 12 premium speakers and 650 watts, a Navigation System with real time traffic, remote control and Map Care plus a rear park assist camera.

Customers can 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 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), new 18-inch Situla alloy wheels for the 3.2 (without Premier Plus or Platinum) and various hues of metallic paint.

All XC90s feature an audio streaming connection for the 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.

The XC90's advanced 3.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant that 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.

Full synthetic motor oil is now standard on the XC90, as it will be on all 2013 Volvo models. Thus, the recommended service interval increases to 10,000 miles from the previous 7,500 miles. Customers should refer to the Owner's Manual and maintenance schedule for more complete information.

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.