New 2015 Volvo XC90 – first exterior photo

The new Volvo XC90 (pictured) arrives in 2 weeks

The reveal of the new 2015 Volvo XC90 is only two weeks away – although probably overdue by many years – and Volvo continue to pique our interest with more information on the new XC90. Top of Volvo’s information list this time is their new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) which underpins the new mXC90, but in the process they have revealed the first exterior photo of the new XC90 (although the exterior has already been revealed), although it is only a front-end detail photo.

What it does show is the XC90′s new headlights – complete with running lights Volvo has dubbed ‘Thor’s Hammer – which look similar to those found on a number of Volvo’s recent concepts, a much bigger grill than we’re used to seeing on a Volvo and a sculptured bonnet.

But Volvo are focusing on their new Scalable Product Architecture – under development for four years – which will underpin not just the new XC90 but most future Volvos too.

It’s flexibility allows Volvo engineers and designers far more range in design and implementation, and its modular nature allows a wide range of sizes, overhangs and wheelbases to be derived from a single platform that comes with less weight thanks to its high-strength boron steel construction.

The SPA platform also means more room inside thanks to a more compact and rigid platform, and that means more room for passengers, with the new XC90 able to offer easy access to the third row, a row that will take passengers up to 5’7″.

Finally, Volvo say the SPA platform is so flexible they can easily interchange engines and drivetrains, which promises more cost-effective implementation for hybrid and EV setups across a range of cars – saloons, estates and SUVs.

The new 2015 Volvo XC90 – which, in many ways, is perhaps the most important new car from Volvo since the last XC90 – will be revealed in two weeks time before heading for the Paris Motor Show for a public debut.

By Cars UK