2004 Volvo XC90 PUV Concept

The XC90 PUV is to the XC90 V8 as Mr. Hyde is to Dr. Jekyll. It's a full on transformation from mild-mannered, elegance to a

Compared to the regular XC90, the PUV's stance is much more aggressive as it's not only lower but wider. (Photo: Volvo Cars of Canada)

rip-roaring hooligan. Compared to the regular XC90 the PUV version's stance is much more aggressive, as it's not only lower but wider. A squared off front bumper, which bears an evil looking intercooler, powerful projector-beam fog lamps and slits for ventilation of the brakes, has been moulded to the XC90's handsome face. Massive fender extensions carry the wild look of the new front end back along the sides of the car, ending at the tail where they integrate into a revised rear bumper. A new rear valance with a matching gray finish is finished with two pairs of twin tailpipes.

But there's a greater purpose to the PUV's aggressive body kit than just neck-snapping style. For instance its oversized wheel arches are also necessary for improving the SUV's driving characteristics, allowing equal-sized Pirelli 275/40 ZR 20 P-Zero tires

The PUV's oversized wheel arches are necessary for improving its driving characteristics, and allowing Pirelli 275/40 ZR 20 P-Zero tires to fit at each corner. (Photo: Volvo Cars of Canada)

fitted at each corner, on seven-spoke deep-dish alloy wheels. The feat would be unachievable with the regular XC90.

From a dynamic standpoint, the 2-inch lowered ride height reduces the car's center of gravity, and the stiffened high performance springs and dampers cut back on body roll, both of which should make the XC90 infinitely better in the corners. Wider front and rear tracks boost the XC90's stability too.

Other minor XC90 changes have been fitted to the PUV, including tinted windows, headlamps and taillamps, as well as body-colored side-view mirrors.