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Volvo Sensus Connect (2016)

 & Doug Newcomb Columnist

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The 2016 Volvo Sensus Connect infotainment interface sets a new standard by bringing tablet-like features and convenience to the dashboard. - 2016 Volvo XC90 Sensus Connect
4.0 Excellent

The Bottom Line

The 2016 Volvo Sensus Connect infotainment interface sets a new standard by bringing tablet-like features and convenience to the dashboard.

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Pros & Cons

    • Large display.
    • Logical menu structure.
    • Innovative non-touch touch screen technology.
    • Clunky keyboard character input.
    • Costly connectivity.

With the launch of the all-new 2016 XC90, Volvo is taking more of a tablet approach with its Sensus Connect infotainment system, which uses a 9.5-inch, vertically-mounted touch screen. While Telsa was the first car company to put a large, tablet-like interface in the dash with its Model S, the Volvo XC90 is the first mainstream vehicle to do so, and without physical controls other than a Home button. This is a bold move by the Swedish automaker, and one that could set a new standard for future vehicles. It's our new Editors' Choice infotainment system.

Overview

The Sensus Connect interface operates a lot like a tablet. It has three main screens and various tabs you can maneuver through by swiping, tapping, and typing with your finger. The main screen is the Home view, which appears when the car is started and can be accessed at any time by hitting the physical Home button at the bottom. This screen also shows submenus for functions that are currently being used, such as audio and navigation, and these can be tapped to access other submenu options, such as sound settings.

Final Thoughts

The 2016 Volvo Sensus Connect infotainment interface sets a new standard by bringing tablet-like features and convenience to the dashboard. - 2016 Volvo XC90 Sensus Connect

Volvo Sensus Connect (2016)

4.0 Excellent

The 2016 Volvo Sensus Connect infotainment interface sets a new standard by bringing tablet-like features and convenience to the dashboard.

Get It Now

Buy It Now

About Our Expert

Doug Newcomb

Doug Newcomb

Columnist

Doug Newcomb is a recognized expert on the subject of car technology within the auto industry and among the automotive and general media, and a frequent speaker at automotive and consumer electronics industry events. Doug began his career in 1988 at the car stereo trade publication Mobile Electronics, before serving as editor of the leading consumer magazines covering the topic, Car Audio and Electronics and Car Stereo Review/Mobile Entertainment/Road & Track Road Gear, from 1989 to 2005. In 2005 Doug started his own company, Newcomb Communications & Consulting, to provide content to such outlets as Road & Track, Popular Mechanics, MSN Autos, SEMA News, and many others. In 2008, he published his first book, Car Audio for Dummies (Wiley). He is also a contributor to Wired's Autopia, MSN Autos, and numerous other outlets.

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