The Volvo XC90 got a facelift last year,
but new details are starting to emerge about the next-generation model which is
due in 2022. According to Autocar, the redesigned XC90 will ride on an updated
version of the SPA architecture. Little is known about the platform, but it is
also slated to underpin next-generation S60 / V60 and S90 / V90.
There’s no word on performance
specifications at this point, but Volvo CEO Håkan Samuelsson reportedly
confirmed plans for an electric variant. It will likely be joined by plug-in
hybrid and mild-hybrid powertrains.
Volvo has been working on autonomous
driving technology for years and Samuelsson reportedly said the “hardware will
be there to allow full hands-off and eyes-off driving should regulations allow
this in time.” However, it appears the system will only work on the highway and
won’t be a true Level 5 system.
Given that the XC90 is Volvo’s most
popular model in the United States, production of the next-generation crossover
will move from Sweden to the company’s plant in Ridgeville, South Carolina. The
facility currently builds the S60 and the company has previously said the plant
will have the capacity to build 150,000 vehicles annually when the
next-generation XC90 goes into production.
In related news, Samuelsson also revealed
the 40-series lineup will be expanded as the company “realized the need for
another small, premium car.” That statement suggests the model will be a sedan,
hatchback or wagon. We haven’t heard much about the vehicle, but Volvo’s Lex
Kerssemakers has previously suggested the model will have crossover-inspired
styling and extra ground clearance. It is slated to ride on the CMA platform
that underpins the XC40 and could potentially resemble the 40.2 concept which
was introduced in 2016.
