Both Power and Safety Issues Represented with new XC90 PUV
High-speed performance and safety issues are rarely showcased in a single, unified theme in the car business, at least from any other carmaker than Volvo. Even rarer is the unorthodox combination in a sport utility vehicle.
The Swedish manufacturer presented its three newest models at this years SEMA (Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association) tradeshow, all of which follow the theme of ultimate performance and safety. Taking front and center stage at Volvos display is a thoroughly reconstructed, supercar-bashing version of Volvos sport utility vehicle, dubbed the XC90 Power Utility Vehicle (PUV), created in part with automotive specialists Aria Group.
2004 Volvo XC90 PUV Concept
Volvo chose to base the radically transformed PUV on the all-new XC90 V8, unveiled just this past September at the Pairs Auto Show. The V8 is now the top-tier XC90, helping to bridge the gap between entry-level six-cylinder XCs and their many V8-powered rivals. These include the BMW X5 4.4i, Mercedes-Benz ML500, Volkswagen Touareg V8, and the upcoming Audi Q7 and Saab 9-7X.
Due to the XC90 being Volvos biggest seller in North America, and the fact that the XC90 V8 was designed primarily for the American market, the decision to create a pumped-up demonstration vehicle is the perfect way to introduce the newcomer with a bang.
The XC90 PUV is to the XC90 V8 as Mr. Hyde is to Dr. Jekyll. Its a full on transformation from mild-mannered, elegance to a rip-roaring hooligan. Compared to the regular XC90 the PUV versions stance is much more aggressive, as its not only lower but wider. A squared off front bumper, which bears an evil looking intercooler, powerful projector-beam fog lamps and slits for ventilation of the brakes, has been moulded to the XC90s handsome face. Massive fender extensions carry the wild look of the new front end back along the sides of the car, ending at the tail where they integrate into a revised rear bumper. A new rear valance with a matching gray finish is finished with two pairs of twin tailpipes.
2004 Volvo XC90 PUV Concept
2004 Volvo XC90 PUV Concept
But theres a greater purpose to the PUVs aggressive body kit than just neck-snapping style. For instance its oversized wheel arches are also necessary for improving the SUVs driving characteristics, allowing equal-sized Pirelli 275/40 ZR 20 P-Zero tires fitted at each corner, on seven-spoke deep-dish alloy wheels. The feat would be unachievable with the regular XC90.
From a dynamic standpoint, the 2-inch lowered ride height reduces the cars center of gravity, and the stiffened high performance springs and dampers cut back on body roll, both of which should make the XC90 infinitely better in the corners. Wider front and rear tracks boost the XC90s stability too.
2004 Volvo XC90 PUV Concept
| Chassis | |
| Brakes F/R: | ABS, vented disc/vented disc |
| Tires F-R: | n.a. |
| Engine | |
| Type: | V8 |
| Displacement cu in (cc): | n.a. |
| Power bhp (kW) at RPM: | 650(485) / n.a. (est.) |
| Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM: | n.a. |
| Redline at RPM: | n.a. |
| Exterior | |
| Length × Width × Height in: | n.a. |
| Weight lb (kg): | n.a. |
| Performance | |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph s: | n.a. |
| Top Speed mph (km/h): | n.a. |
| Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km): | n.a. |
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