Other safety enhancements include Boron steel reinforced roof structure,extended Inflatable Curtain side impact protection for all three rows ofseats, and the full complement of Volvo safety technology such as WhiplashProtection System (WHIPS) seats, dual-stage deployment front airbags,pyrotechnic seatbelt pre-tensioners at all seating positions, and many otherfeatures. A new infra-red night vision system will improve drivers' ability todetect people or animals on the road in the dark.
Despite its ability to carry seven passengers in three rows of forward-facing seats, the XC90 is just 87mm longer than the Volvo V70 station wagon.With a 'cockpit-forward' design to enhance available interior space andrecognizable Volvo design elements, from the upright, egg-crate grille at thefront to familiar tail lamps at the rear, XC90 is immediately recognizable asa Volvo, says Volvo Car Corporation Vice President and chief Designer PeterHorbury. "Nobody should be in any doubt this is a modern Volvo," says Horbury.
Fuel efficiency and environmental impact considerations were prioritiesin the design of the Volvo XC90. Two turbocharged engines are available. The2.5-litre in-line 5-cylinder version with low pressure turbo generates 208 hpwith 236 ft. lbs. of torque, and meets the 2004 ULEV II standard. The 2.9-litre twin-turbo 6-cylinder powerplant turns out 268 hp with 280 ft. lbs. oftorque and qualifies XC90 for Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV) status.