Volvo's drip-feed of information on the new XC90 continues, this time with details of the platform that will underpin the premium SUV.
Known as the Scalable Product Architecture, or SPA for short, the new platform will underpin not only the XC90 but also all future Volvos bar the compact V40 family. Modular in the same manner as Volkswagen's MQB architecture, the SPA platform will allow for all manner of SUVs, estates, saloons and coupés to be built on the same production line, cutting costs. And like MQB the platform is designed to take any number of engines, with Volvo saying it has been designed from the outset to accept hybrid solutions without encroaching on cabin or luggage space.
As a Volvo development it should come as no surprise that the architecture is claimed to be inherently safe with high-strength steel used throughout to ensure the XC90 is stronger and safer than before. The chassis is also lighter and more compact due to the construction meaning there is more space inside the cabin. Volvo will put this extra space to good use by fitting a sliding function to the middle row of seats, meaning the rearmost seats can take passengers up to five-foot-six in height.
Anything else?
The XC90 will be officially revealed to the world at the Paris Motor Show in October. By then you will likely to be tired of hearing about it due to the nature in which it has been revealed...