Online only: Volvo XC90 Limited First Edition

Volvo Cars released a limited First Edition of its all-new Volvo XC90, dubbed “most economical SUV on the market”. The 1,927 individually numbered cars celebrate the year Volvo was founded and, for the first time in history, they will only be available for sale via Volvo’s digital commerce.

“We are creating an online ecosystem that simplifies the process of shopping for, buying and owning a Volvo,” said Alain Visser , Volvo’s senior vice president of sales. “We also see the introduction of the new XC90 as the perfect platform for introducing a new, outstanding customer experience, which we are rolling out globally.”

The First Edition cars, which have uniquely numbered tread plates and a distinctive badge on the tailgate, are powered by a high-performance diesel engine from Volvo Cars’ new four-cylinder Drive-E powertrains.

The D5 twin turbo diesel engine has 225 hp with 470 Nm of torque and is teamed with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission.

The electronically controlled air suspension has choice of five modes, including one where the driver is free to tailor the settings to his or her personal taste.

The Onyx Black exterior and 8-spoke, 21-inch Inscription alloy wheels are combined with an interior featuring Nappa leather seats in Amber, a Charcoal leather dashboard and Linear Walnut inlays.

The power-operated front seats are equipped with ventilation. The outer seats in the second row have heating and the two third row seats are power-operated.

The tablet-like touch screen in the centre is one of the most striking features in the all-new XC90. It is the heart of the all-new in-car control system that is virtually button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to operate their car and access a range of Internet-based products and services.

The Bowers & Wilkins audio systems features a 1,400 watts Class D amplifier, 19 speakers, including one of the first air-ventilated subwoofers integrated in a car and the latest sound processing software, which brings the emotional experience of a world-class live performance into the car.

The car offers one of the most comprehensive and technologically sophisticated standard safety package  in the automotive industry. It includes two world first safety technologies: a run-off road protection package and auto brake at intersection capability.

City Safety, which becomes the umbrella name for all of the Volvo Cars’ auto brake functions, is also standard. It now covers vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians in front of the car, day and night. The recommended retail price for the single specification First Edition is £68,000.