"We get simply massive 'take-off' force with this new auto transmission," added Svensson. "And at the same time, it has a very sporty nature and does not change up in the middle of a curve, for instance, but instead stays in the same gear until the bend straightens out."
 |
| The Haldex system allows virtually no wheelspin at launch resulting in quicker takeoff no matter the road surface conditions. (Photo: Volvo Cars of Canada) |
The new 6-speed features Geartronic, Volvo-speak for shift-it-yourself sequential manual-type actuation. Volvo says that the transmission also allows the possibility for Lock-up, and slipping Lock-up, on all gears.
Highly important among SUV-buyers is all-weather grip, something that hasn't gone unnoticed at Volvo with Doolan commenting, "A sense of control and confidence in any driving condition is essential regardless of geography." And with this in mind the 2005 XC90 will be the first to incorporate a new technology dubbed Instant Traction. What does it do differently than other all-wheel drive systems? Basically, the Haldex-built system allows virtually no wheelspin at launch resulting in quicker takeoff no matter the road surface conditions.
 |
| The new V8 gets a few styling details to separate it from 5- and 6-cylinder XC90s. (Photo: Volvo Cars of Canada) |
"A non-return valve allows us to use software to control the base torque that is programmed into the AWD system. When starting off from standstill, 59 lb-ft of torque is pre-charged in the system since the non-return valve prevents the unit from becoming totally drained of hydraulic fluid," clarified Svensson, adding, "This reduces the usual wheelspin of about one-seventh of a turn that the current system permits before the power is delivered to the rear wheels."
The new V8 gets a few styling details to separate it from 5- and 6-cylinder XC90s too, including an exclusive graphite-gray colored grille insert, distinctive side mouldings, body-color door handles, special chrome-plated trim around the bumper air intake, twin exhaust pipes, as well as standard 18-inch wheels.