Volvo XC90 interior puts concept car trilogy into practice

The Volvo concepts Coupe, XC Coupe and Estate have whetted the appetites of those keen to see new senior VP design president, Thomas Ingenlath's, renaissance of the brand since the former was shown in Frankfurt last September. The first product of these advanced design is the much-needed, all-new XC90 and Volvo has decided to lead its gradual unveiling with its interior.

Led by new interior design director Robin Page – formerly head of Bentley interiors – the new SUV's cabin incorporates many of the concepts' elements, most notably the vertical, tablet-style center screen, incorporating Apple Carplay amongst its software. But while it may "form the heart of an all-new in-car control system," according to Ingenlath, it appears not to form the architectural keystone – supporting the overhanging upper surface and cradled below as in the concepts – it instead appears to sit within an entirely conventional IP that bears rather less relation to its form. Of course we'll have to wait until we see the car before commenting further.

Those left slightly disappointed may find solace in details such as the crystal gear shifter (far more impressive on models featuring a by-wire selector), diamond-turned knobs and cute Swedish flags stitched into the seat piping.

The seats themselves build on Volvo's reputation for comfort, while also freeing up extra passenger space: "Just like classic Scandinavian chairs, our new seats prove that seats don't need a lot of thick padding to be comfortable. The full seat core has an ergonomic shape that resembles the spine," says Page.

Expect more details and images to be released before the XC90's debut at the Paris motor show in October.

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By Owen Ready