Volvo's missed opportunity: The powerhouse XC90 PUV Concept
Today, electrification is an absolute priority for Volvo. Two decades ago, it was completely different. The brand, known for its safety and reliability, could sometimes "let loose."
An example is the XC90 PUV Concept—one of the first mighty SUVs in the world. The car debuted in 2004 at the SEMA tuning show, hoping to capture the attention of those not previously interested in Volvo. The idea for this beast was born in the mind of the president of the American division at the time, Vic Doolan.
"This was such a fun concept that we just had to do it. It could possibly be the ultimate Volvo. It has all the safety that Volvo is known for with the looks and performance of an exotic car," Doolan stated in one of his later interviews.
One glance at the photos is enough to agree with him entirely. The heavily widened bodywork, 50-centimetre rims, and sizeable air intakes caught my attention. Moreover, they weren't just for show because the drivetrain matched the looks.
Under the bonnet of the XC90 PUV Concept was a 4.4-litre Yamaha V8, which was then Volvo's flagship engine. The engine, however, was fitted with a supercharger, boosting its power to a crazy 650 HP. The power was sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed Geartronic transmission, and the electronic torque distribution system ensured proper traction in any condition.
The large and powerful SUV also required efficient brakes, so 38-centimetre discs with 8-piston callipers were installed in the front and 33-centimetre discs with 4-piston callipers in the back.
It's a pity the concept didn’t become a production version. At the time, no one could have predicted that powerful SUVs would become so highly sought after.
