Volvo Doubles Up on Luxury with “Excellent” XC90 Plug-In Hybrid

Volvo Car Corp. will launch sales of the ultra-luxury version of its flagship XC90 crossover/SUV in the U.S. this summer starting at nearly $105,000, which is more than double the base XC90’s $45,000 sticker price.

Dubbed the XC90 Excellence, the top-end model is targeted primarily at China’s chauffeured vehicle market. It was introduced at the Shanghai auto show last year.

Using the same plug-in hybrid architecture that’s offered in the $69,000 XC90 T8, the XC90 Excellence teams a turbo/supercharged, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack. The combination produces 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque.

The new Excellence adds a host of high-end interior appointments. Most notably, the third row of seats has been eliminated to create more room and content for occupants in the first two rows.

All four seats recline and feature massage and ventilation functions. Retractable touchscreens are built into the front seatbacks for rear passengers to use. Rear passengers also get a center console with fold-out table arms, a bottle refrigerator, handmade crystal glasses and specially designed heated/cooled cupholders.

The second row also can be partitioned off for increased privacy and quietness. Other premium touches include Nappa leather, open-pore wood and a 1,400-watt Bowers & Wilkins audio system with 20 speakers.