Compared to the first-generation Volvo XC90 from 2002, the all-new model is a far cry both comfort and technological-wise. The centerpiece that dominates the cabin of the Swedish automaker's upcoming flagship is represented by a tablet-like 9-inch touchscreen that uses tiles to access the vehicle's functions.
The Tesla Model S-inspired piece of kit is mounted vertically in the middle of the dashboard. Replacing the far too many physical buttons of yesteryear with tiles that expand when touched, the new system also features iPad-inspired swiping and pinching functions.
This digital environment isn't resumed at just putting a large tablet in the center of the dashboard. In fact, the system fully integrates the car's functions such as audio controls, sat-nav, Bluetooth phone connectivity, climate controls, suspension setup and driving modes. The in-dash interface works in conjuction with a TFT digital instrument cluster that includes a interchangeable function screen flanked by two digital gauges.
According to Volvo, the Sensus interface is very easy to use even by technological-shy customers thanks to its intuitiveness and logical menu and submenu design. Volvo's senior VP of design Thomas Ingenlath added that the Sensus promises to "keep (the driver's) eyes on the road and hands on the wheel as much as possible."
A handy feature in that matter is the head-up display which projects essential driving data on the driver's side lower windscreen area, further aided by the ability to control certain essential vehicle function via voice. One detail that the Swedes will certainly go mad about is the infrared technology of the central touchscreen, translating into the ability to sense the touch input of the driver even if he or she is wearing thick hand gloves.
Both an Ericsson-based cloud solution and a HERE-sourced sat-nav system are also integrated. Last but not least, the handful Apple CarPlay feature will help owners of Apple-branded devices connect their iPad or iPhone to the car. “Apple’s clean and intuitive user interface is a perfect match with Volvo’s Scandinavian Design approach and our focus on fluid functionality,” added Ingenlath.
If you want to see that tech in action, then check out the video and photo gallery below. If that's not enough, then follow this link for an extra four videos depicting the upcoming model's cabin tech and comfort features.
After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well. Full profile
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