STOCKHOLM, Sweden - Volvo Cars is releasing a limited First Edition of its all-new Volvo XC90 which was launched here on August 26 2014.
The 1927 numbered cars represent the year Volvo was founded and, for the first time in history, will only be available for sale via digital commerce at Volvo Cars for the equivalent of R1 203 600.
The online store will open for business on September 3 2014 at 2pm South African time.
'REVITALISED MARKETING'
Alain Visser, Volvo Car Group’s senior vice-president for marketing, sales and customer service, explained: “Those who want to be among the first to own the best SUV in the world have to act fast. The huge interest in the all-new XC90 indicates that the First Edition will sell out quickly.”
The online-only First Edition is just one example of Volvo Cars’ revitalised approach to marketing and “outstanding personal service”. Visser added: “We are creating an online ecosystem that simplifies the process of shopping for, buying and owning a Volvo.
“We also see the introduction of the new XC90 as the perfect platform for introducing a new and outstanding customer experience, which we are rolling out globally.”
SO, WHY THEY SO SPECIAL?
The First Edition cars, each with a unique number on its tread plates and a distinctive badge on the tail hatch, will be powered by a high-performance diesel engine from Volvo Cars’ new four-cylinder Drive-E power trains.
The D5 twin-turbo diesel engine has 170kW and 470Nm on call, driving through an eight-speed auto transmission.
The electronically controlled air suspension has choice of five modes, one of them allowing the driver to choose settings to his or her personal taste.
STRIKING FEATURES
The Onyx Black exterior and eight-spoked, 21-inch, Inscription alloy rims are combined with an interior featuring amber Nappa leather seats,, a black leather facia and walnut inlays.
The power-operated front seats have ventilation, the outer centre-row seats are heatable and the two third-row seats are power-operated.
The tablet-like touch screen in the centre of the facia is said to be one of the most striking features in the all-new XC90, the heart of the all-new in-car control system that is virtually button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to operate their car and access a range of internet-based products and services.
The Bowers & Wilkins audio system has the same 1400W audio system as the standard car, including a giant sub-woofer.
SAFETY UMBRELLA
Also standard is what is claimed to be one of the most comprehensive and technologically sophisticated safety packages available in the automotive industry – it also features in the standard models.
City Safety, the umbrella name for all Volvo Cars’ auto brake functions, is also standard. It now covers vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians in front of the car, day and night.