Barely a few months after unveiling the all-new XC90, Volvo has introduced a new model called the Excellence, which has been specially created for affluent customers in China and won't be available anywhere else.
Because the XC90 SUV is like the Swedish equivalent of the S-Class, it's not surprising that they chose it for an uber-luxury treatment. The XC90 only has room for four adults, as opposed to seven on a standard model, but the creature comfort levels are extremely high.
It will be shown for the first time at Auto Shanghai 2015, where we'll see how the most luxurious car built in Volvo's 88-year history shapes up. At a glance, things are looking well, with a high-end infotainment system and hand-cut crystal tumblers (yes, that's a funny word for glasses) being offered.
Just like a Mercedes-Maybach model, there's very little to set it apart on the outside. Excellence models have different chrome trim for the side moldings and a unique grille design. But the magic happens inside. There, the SUV has very attractive ventilated leather seats, wood trim and Bentley-like heated & cooled cup holders.
The 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system should make it feel like Sebastian Bach is right there with you, checking out the amazing ambient lighting. And, of course, this being the 21st century the XC90 is also outfitted with the latest noise-canceling technology.
So without further ado, we leave you with the image gallery and the words of Volvo's senior vice president of design, Thomas Ingenlath: "This is our new flagship car. We have created the ultimate luxury experience of Scandinavian design. Volvo has never launched a car like this before. This is the car that demonstrates what the name Volvo now means."
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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