This is one of those rare occasions where the picture says just about everything instead of the actual words in the article. Volvo’s new 2014 XC90 is coming soon and the Swedish marque have started off the promotion by demonstrating the interior quality of the vehicle. This isn’t unusual in this segment (Range Rovers, Audi Q cars and BMW X cars are all luxurious) but in the opinion of Car Articles the glimpse above of the finished interior is a real highlight.
“The most striking feature is a tablet-like touch screen control console, which forms the heart of an all-new in-car control system,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design of Volvo Cars.
This system – full details of which will be released at a later date – is virtually button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to control their car and access a range of Internet-based products and services. It also helps create an interior that is modern, spacious and uncluttered.
The new XC90’s interior combines materials such as soft leather and wood with handcrafted details including a gear lever made of crystal glass from Orrefors, the famous Swedish glass maker, and diamond-cut controls for the start/stop button and volume control.
“These details are designed to become the jewels of the interior. They add a bit of exclusive playfulness rather than pure functionality,” said Robin Page, Volvo Cars’ Interior Design Director.
The XC90 has never been a small car and the latest version is also on the large side. However, practicality is also at the forefront and interior space has been rejigged in order to offer real world 7 seater ability.
“Just like classic Scandinavian chairs, our new seats prove that seats don’t need a lot of thick padding to be comfortable. The full seat core has an ergonomic shape that resembles the human spine. A multitude of adjustment possibilities makes it possible for the individual user to create an ideal seating position,” says Mr Page.
A four zone climate control system is available as well as a separate unit for the third row of seats. Comfort and safety are said to be class leading. We expect this to be a big mover for Volvo and there’ll be a lot of happy (and comfortable) motorists with XC90 sized grins of their faces!
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