Latest news with #EX90
Miami Herald
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Volvo's Abbey Road Mode Turns the EX90 Into a Personal Music Venue
Music is an essential part of driving, whether through your car's radio, on physical media, or a streaming service like Spotify or Apple Music. Some of us have that special mixtape, burnt CD, or mixtape full of the essential tracks meant to lift the spirits on the morning commute, the drive home, or a long drive somewhere far away. One of the bands I grew an unhealthy, obsessive fixation over when I was a kid was The Beatles, and ironically, one of those songs on one of my driving playlists is Drive My Car. Though we know the words and notes of our favorite songs by heart, the most discerning ears know that there are wildly different and noticeable differences when we listen to them in our cars, our headphones, and through various types of speakers. Nothing can compare to the experience of attending a live performance or being in the room with artists as they record. However, if you're a Beatles fan like I am, you might need a time machine to experience that era. But while time machines and flux capacitors remain the work of fiction, Volvo's latest software update has a cool new feature that may be the next best thing: a way to bring you closer to one of the most iconic studios in the world. After teasing this feature last year, Volvo has officially introduced what they call the "Abbey Road Studios Mode" in an over-the-air (OTA) update for its all-electric EX90 models equipped with the optional Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity Audio system. This innovative digital audio experience has been crafted in collaboration with audio engineers from the actual Abbey Road Studios in London and high-end audio experts at Bowers & Wilkins. In essence, Abbey Road Studios Mode was made to replicate the distinct sound and acoustic character of the Abbey Road recording rooms inside the Volvo EX90. In its quest to explore the limits of the in-car music listening experience, Bowers & Wilkins worked closely with the same audio engineers who obsessed over the minute, fine details for a wide range of music artists to create a series of digital soundscapes that could bring the studio alive in the big Volvo EV's ultra-quiet cabin. Though other expensive brand-name high-end stereo systems in other cars allow you to tweak, tune, and mess with various equalizer (EQ) settings like the balance, bass, treble, and even focus the sound on passengers or drivers, Volvo says that the Abbey Road Studios Mode is different. The mode comes with some special presets that "provide a selection of sounds, optimised for different listening styles," as well as a special "Producer Mode," which "allows you to engineer your own sound" by adjusting between retro-style warmth or modern, crisp depth, and even shifting the simulated acoustic environment in the same way George Martin would've done. "The Abbey Road Studios Mode brings the unique sound of our spaces and equipment to the Bowers & Wilkins system in the Volvo EX90 for the first time," Abbey Road Studios GM Jeremy Huffelmann said in a statement. "We are hugely proud of this collaboration, and excited for Volvo customers to experience this landmark technology." The Abbey Road Studios Mode is a nice addition to the EX90, which already features a Dolby Atmos-capable, 1,610-watt Bowers & Wilkins system with 25 speakers placed throughout one of Volvo's quietest interiors. As a music fan, words underestimate the kind of songs that were recorded at Abbey Road. We're talking 190 of The Beatles' 210 song catalog, Lennon's Imagine, the entirety of Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of The Moon, modern hits like Lady Gaga's Born This Way, Frank Ocean's Pink + White, and even the scores of Oscar-winning movies like Gravity and The Shape of Water. Although it may seem like a bit too much of a niche "if you know, you know"-type of deal, I feel that given the studio's rich history in modern music, the 'Abbey Road mode' is the ultimate form of an audiophile's stamp of approval, which can sway at least some music-loving buyers towards the Volvo. At least for me, it could make "Drive My Car" sound true to the original recording. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
The Herald
2 days ago
- Automotive
- The Herald
Volvo adds Abbey Road Studios sound mode to EX90
Volvo is rolling out a new Abbey Road Studios Mode to its EX90 electric SUV, offering drivers the ability to recreate the acoustics of the famous London recording studio where acts such as The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Radiohead, Oasis and Massive Attack laid down some of their finest work. Available to owners with the optional Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system fitted to their vehicles, the feature will be delivered free of charge via an over-the-air software update in the coming weeks. Developed in collaboration with Bowers & Wilkins and Abbey Road Studios, the mode uses sound profiles inspired by the studio's acoustics and mixing equipment. These include a "Producer Mode" that allows users to adjust the stereo sound stage, tonal quality and overall ambience, much like an audio engineer would behind a mixing desk.
TimesLIVE
3 days ago
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
Volvo adds Abbey Road Studios sound mode to EX90
Volvo is rolling out a new Abbey Road Studios Mode to its EX90 electric SUV, offering drivers the ability to recreate the acoustics of the famous London recording studio where acts such as The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Radiohead, Oasis and Massive Attack laid down some of their finest work. Available to owners with the optional Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system fitted to their vehicles, the feature will be delivered free of charge via an over-the-air software update in the coming weeks. Developed in collaboration with Bowers & Wilkins and Abbey Road Studios, the mode uses sound profiles inspired by the studio's acoustics and mixing equipment. These include a "Producer Mode" that allows users to adjust the stereo sound stage, tonal quality and overall ambience, much like an audio engineer would behind a mixing desk. 'We are hugely proud of the collaboration, and excited for Volvo customers to experience the landmark technology,' said Abbey Road general manager Jeremy Huffelmann. The 1610-watt Bowers & Wilkins system in the EX90 includes 25 speakers and supports Dolby Atmos playback. The system was developed jointly by Volvo's in-house engineers and Bowers & Wilkins' tuning team. Volvo said the new sound mode will also be fitted as standard to future EX90 and ES90 models equipped with the Bowers & Wilkins system.
IOL News
3 days ago
- Automotive
- IOL News
Volvo gears up to launch the rugged EX30 Cross Country electric SUV in SA
Local pricing and specifications for the EX30 Cross Country will be announced closer to the South African launch later this year. Image: Supplied Volvo Car South Africa is set to expand its electric lineup with the unveiling of the new EX30 Cross Country—a rugged derivative of the acclaimed EX30. Following the recent launch of the all-electric seven-seater EX90, the EX30 Cross Country is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation and adventure. With its roots tracing back to the iconic Cross Country name introduced in 1997 on the V70 model, the EX30 Cross Country brings a refreshing twist to the traditional Volvo design. This SUV is more than just aesthetically adventurous; it boasts a sturdy appearance with advanced all-wheel drive capabilities, perfect for eco-conscious explorers. The EX30 Cross Country features an elevated ride height compared to its standard counterpart, enhancing off-road capability. Sporting impressive 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels in a striking Matte Graphite finish, adorned with Matte Black aero inserts, the SUV emanates strength and reliability. Following the local release of the range-topping EX90, the brand's all-electric seven-seater, Volvo Car South Africa is pleased to announce the imminent arrival of the new EX30 Cross Country, the rugged derivative of the award-winning EX30. Image: Supplied Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ While retaining the EX30's minimalist elegance, this rugged version has received a series of thoughtful upgrades. The front shield and boot lid are accentuated with a unique dark hue, while the front fascia proudly displays model-specific artwork inspired by the topography of Sweden's Kebnekaise mountain range. Additional styling enhancements include robust skid plates and wheel arch extensions that contribute to a more chiselled, rugged aesthetic. In South Africa, the EX30 Cross Country will be exclusively available in the Ultra Twin Performance variant, ensuring that drivers enjoy a comprehensive suite of luxury and convenience features. Among these premium offerings are a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable front seats, and an impressive array of over 15 driver assistance features. For those looking to personalise their vehicle, bespoke accessories such as mudflaps, load carriers, and roof baskets will be available to enhance the ownership experience.* With a formidable range of 427 km, the EX30 Cross Country promises to satisfy the needs of adventurers who relish long distance travel. While the EX30 Cross Country retains the EX30's minimalist good looks, Volvo has made several refinements to its more rugged counterpart. Image: Supplied Fast charging capabilities further complement its practicality, allowing the SUV to switch from 10% to 80% battery capacity in just 26 minutes. Coupled with standard all-wheel drive, this ensures optimal traction across various terrains—from bustling urban streets to rugged gravel paths. Felipe Yagi, Head of Marketing and Communications at Volvo Car South Africa, encapsulates the essence of the EX30 Cross Country: 'It builds on everything people love about the EX30, adding rugged capability and distinctive design details. It's a refined, all-electric SUV that feels equally at home on gravel roads or in the city, offering South Africans a practical way to go further with confidence.' The launch of the EX30 Cross Country further reinforces Volvo's commitment to electrification. The Swedish automaker is actively pursuing a diverse range of electrified vehicles, encompassing fully electric models, plug-in hybrids, and mild hybrids, aiming for these categories to comprise nearly all global sales by 2030. Details regarding local pricing and specifications for the EX30 Cross Country will be revealed prior to its much-anticipated launch later this year. IOL
NZ Autocar
4 days ago
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
2025 Volvo XC90 B5 Ultra Bright Review
The Volvo XC90 undergoes another revision as it enters its second decade. Is it still a viable option for those after a premium seven-seat SUV? It was back in 2015 that the Volvo XC90 made quite the impression, taking away our overall Car of the Year award. And ten years later, the XC90 is still trucking along. Volvo's seven seater has a reputation for longevity in the market. The original went 13 years before this second-generation offering arrived. And now as it enters its second decade, Volvo has given it a thorough freshening. However, that wasn't the original plan. The XC90 was intended to be replaced by the EX90, the battery-powered model that was recently crowned the World Luxury Car of the Year (but not scheduled for arrival here until 2026). You may recall the firm declaring an end to ICE motivation from 2030, and then, like many manufacturers, it rolled those comments back to adjust to market demand for EVs. And so Volvo will continue to sell hybrid models for the foreseeable future, the XC90's retirement party delayed for a few more years yet. But is a luxury SUV with ten candles on its birthday cake still competitive in today's market place? Pricing helps; the revised model is slightly cheaper now. This B5 Ultra Bright costs $112,990, $2k less than the old model. While it gains a bit more on the spec sheet, you're now getting the lesser 184kW tune of the mild hybrid 2.0-litre. The other option is the T8 Ultra Dark Plug-in Hybrid, although this has snuck up in price to $161,990. It does get a better plug-in driveline, however, with a 70km electric range. So what's new? Volvo has given both the exterior and interior an update, which it says makes the XC90 'more contemporary and luxurious in line with the new generation of fully electric SUVs'. From the front is where you'll notice the biggest change with a new grille (or front air intake graphic as the designer would call it), updated bumper and guards and a more sculpted bonnet. The T-shaped headlights take on a revised, slimmer appearance too, and come with Matrix-design LED technology. Wheel and taillight titivation complete the makeover. This B5 Ultra Bright is highlighted with chrome accents, while the T8 Ultra Dark gets the blacked out treatment. The latter looks better, especially on that intake graphic. Interior renovated too The cabin has been spruced with new panels tacked on to the dash and doors, a revised centre console and fresh decor. Cabin quality and premium ambience remain up to the mark. The light-coloured Cardamom trim, a new choice, is suitably Swedish, though will look a little the worse for wear after a year of family life. XC90 was an early adopter of the minimal button approach, and now the overlording touchscreen has been enlarged with a new 11.2-inch display sitting proud of the dash. It's a more pixel-dense screen which boasts a new user interface. The home screen shows maps, media and phone functions, meaning fewer taps to access the most used functions. And you don't have to leave the map page to change your music like you had to with the old system. It's still Google enabled, which will be off-putting for those digital privacy advocates. The voice-activated Google Assistant can perform some of the more menial tasks to save you tapping at the screen. Navigation is via Google maps, so has superior real-time traffic info for the best route home when things go wrong. You also get a four-year subscription to the Digital Services package with all data included. There's an upgraded wireless phone charger but having only one seems mean these days. And there's also the air purifier, four-zone climate control, head-up display, heated seats front and rear and a wheel warmer. Figure also on a panoramic roof and Harman Kardon premium sounds. Helping keep the XC90 viable is its interior versatility. It fits seven inside, the seating arrangement sliding to help everyone fit. With a trio of individual seats, three average-sized Joes should fit across the middle row. The sixth and seventh seats are pretty good too, accommodating lanky teenaged bipeds, while there's enough room left over in behind for a couple of furry quadrupeds to lay comfortably. In five-seater mode, the hold is wide and deep, good for 680L. Mild in nature Being a mild hybrid, the stop/start function is quick and unobtrusive. The 10kW/40Nm integrated starter generator gives a small boost to proceedings so the 2.0-litre's 360Nm feels sufficient for commuting. Consumption they rate at 8.1L/100km while this vehicle's long term average was tracking at 10.1L/100km. Another new addition is frequency selective dampers for improved ride comfort, while still managing the body movements at speed. These work well on highway roads for a smooth ride, and while the urban progress is okay, they don't soak up the sharper edges quite as well. It's not so bad you'd contemplate the $4000 air suspender option however. The steering is commendably light but still with three turns between the stops. A turning circle of 12.1m is large though. The parking camera's 360 degree image isn't as seamless as in newer models but the bigger screen lets you have a split view with both the regular reversing image and surround view shown at the same time. Refinement and ease are prioritised on highway roads, but it steers well enough, resists the urge to push (with a little help from the stability aids) and manages to deal with bumps and body roll. Volvo dispensed with myriad drive modes a while back and they aren't missed. The auto goes alright, though you can still pick the gears yourself if you so choose. Road noise is subdued on coarse chip surfaces. Given its age, this is a 'new' Volvo without five stars as its ANCAP rating has expired since it was tested in 2015. It's missing things like a centre air bag and some of the more active warnings like the overspeed alert and driver monitor (though we don't really miss them at all). The active cruise is a smooth operator in traffic, and on the motorway. What else is there? Lucky for the XC90, some of its rivals from the prestige brands aren't exactly new either, and all are more expensive. The Audi Q7 is brawnier but dearer (50TDI $159,990) and isn't quite as roomy. The Discovery starts at $145k and while it's more capable isn't quite as urban friendly. And the Defender 130 is even more expensive. Other seven seaters from the luxo set like the X7 and GLS are near the $200k mark. Closer to XC90 money are much newer mainstream models like the top Santa Fe and Mazda CX-90, or Prado VX if you want something more rugged. Volvo XC90 B5 Ultra Bright $112,990 / 8.1L/100km / 180g/km 0-100 km/h 7.7s Ambient cabin noise 71.0dB@100km/h Engine 1969cc / IL4 / T / DI Max power 184kW@5400-5700rpm Max torque 360Nm@1600-3000rpm Drivetrain 8-speed auto / on-demand AWD Front suspension Wishbone / swaybar Rear suspension Multilink / swaybar Turning circle 12.1m (3.0 turns) Front brakes Ventilated discs Rear brakes Discs Stability systems ABS, ESP, TV Safety AEB, ACC, BSM, LDW, RCTA, ALK, AHB Tyre size f/r-276/45ZR20 Wheelbase 2984mm L/W/H 4953 / 1931 / 2146mm Track f-1665mm r-1667mm Fuel capacity 71L Luggage capacity 302-680-2005L Tow rating 750kg (2400kg braked) Service intervals 12 months / 15,000km Scheduled servicing 3yrs / 100,000km Warranty 5yrs / 150,000km ANCAP rating Not yet rated Weight (claimed) 2080kg
