‘City Safety’ becomes the nomenclature for the host of auto-brake features which now work up to 50 km/h for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians, in an straight line, or even when turning, day or night. The complement of Volvo safety inside comprises of their stability and traction control with gyroscopic rollover protection, anti-lock brakes with force distribution, corner brake control and brake assist, apart from a full quota of airbags. There’s a lot more tech under there, with the chassis now being constructed with more boron-steel than before. The ‘safety cage’ is now stronger and can absorb greater impacts at greater speeds in a varied spread of angles as well. The driver and front-passenger seats are equipped with WHIPS (whiplash protection system), as always.
The 2015 XC90 will have its global launch later this year, with deliveries commencing early next year. However, if you think you cannot wait and need to get your hands on one of the ‘First’ cars, the initial 1,927 cars will be up for grabs exclusively online via digital commerce from September 3. The First Edition cars commemorate the company’s founding 87 years ago.
The new XC90 will be priced significantly higher than the outgoing car, with comfort and luxury levels set to match the super-luxury saloons of today. Needless to say, its safety technology surpasses every one of them. When it comes to India, the price will, in all probability, be above the Rs 80 lakh mark.
Story: Jim Gorde
