Volvo's value-adjusted XC90

Volvo has geared up for a stoush in the luxury SUV segment next year.  The importer's XC90 has been upgraded with extra equipment and the price has been lowered across the range.

There's bad news for those who liked the 4.4-litre V8 that powered the top-spec models. That engine is G-O-N-E. The range for 2012 now comprises R-Design and Executive grades of the XC90, powered by either the 3.2-litre petrol six or the five-cylinder turbodiesel — making four variants in all.

Whether the new model year XC90 is a response to emerging competition — such as the new VW Touareg — or whether Volvo is taking advantage of the stronger Aussie dollar (steadily trending up against the Swedish Krona over the past couple of years), the XC90 is immediately a better value proposition for the buyer, says Volvo MD Matt Braid.

``The XC90 has been Australia's top selling seven-seat luxury SUV for the past four years running due to its exceptional value for money, practicality, versatility and, of course, safety,'' he was quoted as saying in a press release.

``The price revision and equipment additions for MY12 make the XC90 even more competitive in the market, especially with a starting price below $70,000.''

The entry-level model in the range is the XC90 3.2 R-Design, which is now equipped as standard with Volvo's Navigation System and a reversing camera. Previously options, the two new features add retail value to the tune of $9340, Volvo claims — including a price cut worth $4460.

The higher-grade XC90 3.2 Executive gains the same satnav system and reversing camera as the R-Design variant, but also scores speed-sensitive power steering and water-repellent side windows.

Pricing for the two diesel models has dropped by $4460 also and the specification upgrades are as for the respective petrol counterparts. All 2012 variants gain audio streaming as an integral feature of the Bluetooth system.

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