Is This Mysterious Volvo XC90 a Mule for a Pickup Truck?
Spy photographers have caught a mysterious Volvo XC90 test vehicle on camera.
What this XC90 is being used for is a big mystery, but it appears to be an early test vehicle for an upcoming model based on the existing SUV. What makes it quite interesting is the rear axle has been pushed back several inches, resulting in a longer wheelbase. A heavily reinforced steel platform has also been incorporated to onto the rear likely adding a significant amount of weight.
This leads us to wonder what Volvo is testing here. The logical explanation would be a long-wheelbase variant for the XC90, a model that could appeal to buyers in China who want a chauffeur car. However, there has been no evidence that Volvo is considering an XC90 long-wheelbase variant.
SEE ALSO: 2016 Volvo XC90 T6 Review
The more interesting theory is that Volvo is working on a possible pickup truck, which could explain the hefty weight added to the rear, essentially serving as a way to simulate truck bed cargo. The extended wheelbase puts it in the same territory as a Honda Ridgeline.
It would be a bit of a strange move for Volvo, however, which has focused more on luxury as it continues to revamp its image. But then again, Mercedes-Benz is entering the pickup truck market, so it’s not entirely out of the question for Volvo.
Another theory is that it could be a one-off mule to test an armored extended wheelbase vehicle that could serve as a limo for someone who needs protecting.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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