Volvo to commence XC90 T8 local assembly in 2019

Volvo has announced its plans to locally assemble the plug-in hybrid variants of its flagship SUV, the XC90, at its plant in Bengaluru.

It was only earlier this year that Volvo launched the T8 Inscription variant of the XC90, which is essentially the standard, top-of-the-line seven-seat XC90 with a hybrid powertrain. In addition to that, Volvo also retails the more luxurious XC90 T8 Excellence, and both variants are shipped in as completely-built units (CBUs) at this time, but Volvo is aiming to commence local assembly of both variants by the end of 2019.

Additionally, Volvo has also stated its plans to introduce four new plug-in hybrid models over the next three years in our market, and a new all-electric model, which will come to India soon after its international launch.

The XC90 T8's 'Twin Engine' setup pairs a 2.0-litre, turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder petrol engine that makes 320hp with an 87hp electric motor. Total output stands at 407hp and 400Nm of torque and drive goes to all-four corners through an 8-speed automatic gearbox, with the engine powering the front wheels and the electric motor powering the rear. Volvo quotes a 0-100kph time of 5.8 seconds and an all-electric range of 40km for the T8.

The rest of the package is identical to the XC90 Inscription diesel. Standard features include a panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, a 19-speaker Bowers and Wilkins audio system, air suspension, a head-up display, ventilated front seats and Nappa leather upholstery to name a few. On the safety front, the T8 Inscription is equipped with seven airbags, collision avoidance, radar-based adaptive cruise control, city braking system and more. The Excellence, on the other hand, is a true luxury variant; one with only four seats, retractable touchscreens for each rear passenger, a refrigerator, a crystal gearshift knob and more.

Despite Volvo’s local assembly plans, prices for both XC90 T8 variants are expected to remain more or less the same. At present, the T8 Inscription is priced at Rs 96.65 lakh and the T8 Excellence costs Rs 1.31 crore (all prices, ex-showroom).

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