2004 Volvo XC90 PUV Concept

Peel back the skin of the PUV and you'll find that it is still very much a traditional Volvo, which puts passenger safety

The PUV joins other Volvo concepts shown at this year's SEMA show as examples of the Swedish brand's ongoing quest for a performance image. (Photo: Volvo Cars of Canada)

above all else. Introduced two years ago, the XC90 broke ground in five areas of active and passive safety for both occupants and pedestrians outside, an accomplishment which many manufacturers still cannot match. This holistic approach covers one of the best active anti-rollover systems on the market, which links stability control, traction control and the Haldex all-wheel drive system to keep the car stable even under the most violent maneuvers. This allows the XC90 to lead the way in rollover protection, featuring pillars and roof frames made of super high tensile strength steel, as well as side curtain airbags to protect all three rows of seats.

While Volvo has no intention of producing the XC90 PUV, the vehicle is an important part of the ongoing revolution of Volvo's image, which started with the introduction of the S80 in 1998 as a 1999 model. Since that time Volvo has continued to evolve, turning out new ideas and forming them into metal. Having experimented with safety, practicality and green-power, the PUV joins other Volvo concepts shown at this year's SEMA show as examples of the Swedish brand's ongoing quest for a performance image. Perhaps Volvo will consider upping the ante on its XC90 V8 to create an 'R' model, calling on a few of the PUV's unique traits.

Specifications:

• Body Type: 5-door SUV
• Layout: front engine, AWD
• Engine: 315 hp, 325 lb-ft torque, 4.4-L, V8
• Transmission: 6-spd auto with manual mode
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS and EBD
• Curb Weight (estimated): 2,200 kg (4,850 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 7
• Cargo Volume (seats folded): 2404 L (85 cu ft)
• Warranty (mo/km): 4-year/80,000 comprehensive
• Direct Competitors: Acura MDX, BMW X5, Cadillac Escalade, GMC Envoy XL, Infiniti QX4, Lexus LX 470, Lincoln Aviator, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Oldsmobile Bravada, VW Touareg
• Web Site: www.volvocanada.com