It’s a pity, I always believed that the XC90 was a good looking car, and thought the T6 was a really powerful ride. I even thought that it was selling well and that it was a proper, cheaper alternative to Mercedes ML or BMW X5. As much as I, or maybe even you liked it, it’s sad to say that the XC90 may be no more.
Although due to be launched in the end of 2009, sources close to AMS Sweden stated that the decision was made a few days ago and that it was due to several factors like increased costs associated with weight saving which later translate to expensive lightweight material. The absence of new engines, transmissions and no hybrid technology-not even start/stop engine function, make it hard to sell. Ford (yes, they own Volvo), after seeing the sales of the BMW X5 dropping has determined that in order to stay competitive, all new models must offer lower fuel consumption and a hybrid model.
It’s almost confirmed that the XC90 will be shelved, so expect a major facelift in 2009 which may continue until 2012. Volvo has instead chosen to concentrate on the upcoming XC60, smaller XC50, and even smaller XC30. Hopefully the replacement models are equally pleasant to the eye and offer toll-booth dragging power.
Image Credits: AutoBlog
