IT'S almost 20 years since Volvo introduced its rugged Cross Country models which have become synonymous with the go-anywhere motor.

Now Volvo has unveiled the V90 Cross Country, completing its 90 series line-up.

With some of the harshest winters on the planet and more than77 per cent of the country covered in forest and lakes, Sweden is the natural place to develop and test extreme durability and all-weather-capable cars and the new V90 Cross Country is designed to cope with any condition.

From secret testing facilities in the frozen north of Sweden, where temperatures regularly hit -40 degrees centigrade, to the searing desert heat of Arizona, where Volvo Cars performs its high-temperature testing program, the V90 Cross Country has been built to cope.

Dr Peter Mertens, senior vice-president research and development at Volvo Cars said: "Our cars are well known for their safety, strength and durability. With all-wheel-drive, increased ride height and a chassis optimised for comfort and control in all weather and road conditions, the new V90 Cross Country takes our versatile V90 estate and adds the heart of an explorer."

Production of the new car is set to start this autumn at Volvo Cars' Torslanda plant in Sweden.

UK prices will be announced later this year, and first deliveries are expected in early 2017.