Volvo confirms four new models for the South African market, and they’re not all electric

Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA) is set to launch four key new models in the coming year, with the company confirming recently that the new ES90 Sedan was on the radar for local introduction, along with the EX30 Cross Country and updated versions of the XC60 and XC90 SUVs.

VCSA was at the centre of controversy earlier this year after the importer closed around half of its dealerships, essentially only leaving sales representation in the three major centres, and service outlets in more remote regions such as the Eastern Cape.

This, it said, was due to the company shifting its focus to an all-electric future.

However, while the new Volvo ES90 and EX30 Cross Country are fully electric, the updated XC60 and XC90 vehicles will offer a choice between mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid petrol power.

“Our focus is clear: we are committed to offering South African motorists more choice as they make the transition to electric driving,” said VCSA’s new managing director Grant Locke.

“These new vehicles, paired with our ongoing investment in our local operations and services, underline the fact that we are here to stay and grow.”

What can customers expect? Here’s a quick look at the four new contenders:

Volvo ES90 flagship sedan

Volvo says its new ES90 flagship sedan is the most advanced vehicle it has ever created. It also ushers in the brand’s new 800-volt technology, allowing for faster charging as well as improved performance and efficiency.

Volvo says the twin-motor flagship version, fitted with a 106kWh battery, can cover up to 700km on the WLTP testing cycle. Equally impressive is that 300km of range can be added in just 10 minutes when the car is plugged into a 350kW fast charger.

Like the new EX90 SUV, the Volvo ES90 is crafted around the SPA2 vehicle architecture and features the company’s new Superset tech stack, consisting of a single set of hardware and software modules that will underpin all upcoming EV models.

The cabin features Volvo’s new-generation 14.5-inch infotainment system, with built-in Google and a 5G-capable operating system powered by Snapdragon and Qualcomm Technologies.

The vehicle’s advanced safety features are powered by an advanced array of sensors, including five radars, seven cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors and one lidar device.

“This sensor set enables vision beyond human range to help avoid collisions and hazards on the road,” Volvo said. "Together with its powerful core computers, the ES90 continues our new era of safety we established with the EX90.”

Volvo EX30 Cross Country

Although the EX30 is already classified as a crossover vehicle, the CC treatment adds a few rugged touches to the mix, while simultaneously ushering in new adventure experience packages for customers.

The new model features a twin-motor all-wheel drive system and its ride height has reportedly been raised by 18mm. It also rolls on unique black wheels, which can be optionally fitted with 18-inch all terrain tyres.

The full powertrain line-up for the EX30 Cross Country has yet to be announced but, depending on the model, it will cover up to 427km between charges, and charge from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 26 minutes.

Volvo XC60 and XC90 facelifts

While the all-electric EX90 flagship SUV and upcoming EX60 were expected to replace the petrol-powered XC90 and XC60 models, Volvo has now announced facelifted versions of the latter without any indication of when the ICE model will be discontinued.

The two upgraded models feature distinct styling updates at the front and rear ends, including new asymmetrical grilles and fresh wheel designs. Inside, they feature Volvo's latest 11.2-inch free-standing touchscreen, boasting 21% sharper pixel density and enhanced functionality.

The refreshed cabins also feature new materials, colours, and comfort features.

While full local specifications will be released closer to launch, Volvo SA says both models will be offered with a choice of mild hybrid (MHEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains.

IOL Motoring