Autoblog

Volvo to gun for top-tier luxury brand status after all

Zach Bowman — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:28:00 EST

Filed under: China, Europe, Volvo, Luxury

Word has it that Volvo is once again aiming for top-tier status. Automotive News China is reporting that the Swedish automaker has outlined a slew of new goals that include hitting annual sales of around 800,000 units, becoming the best employer worldwide and doing battle with the likes of BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz. If that's not ambitious enough for you, the brand wants to make it all happen by 2020. The news came courtesy of Freeman Shen, Volvo senior vice president, who made the comments in a speech about the company's future.

Volvo has adopted the new global brand tag line, "Designed Around You," as a step toward its ambitious targets. As Automotive News China points out, the company has some serious ground to cover. For starters, its current line lacks a legitimate flagship to compete with the BMW 7 Series or the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Even so, sales in China are now favoring the XC60 SUV and S80 instead of the smaller S40; a sign that the brand is already inching its way up the food chain in that country.

Volvo to gun for top-tier luxury brand status after all originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2007 Volvo S80 sedan recalled over steering concern

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Recalls, Safety, Volvo

If you're one of the 8,406 people who bought a 2007 Volvo S80 between March of 2006 and May of 2007, be prepared to make a service appointment at your local dealership. S80 sedans manufactured during this time period are being recalled due to power steering reservoir return hoses that may have been incorrectly routed.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an incorrectly routed hose can result in increased pressure within the power steering system. If this happens, it's possible for the hose to burst, resulting in a loss of power steering capability for the car.

Volvo will begin contacting owners starting in August, and any necessary repairs will be performed free of charge. Follow the jump to read NHTSA's official recall statement.

Continue reading 2007 Volvo S80 sedan recalled over steering concern

2007 Volvo S80 sedan recalled over steering concern originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volvo announces new S80 Executive and V70 R-Design

Noah Joseph — Wed, 04 May 2011 09:01:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Wagon, Volvo, Luxury

2012 Volvo S80 Executive (above) and V70 R-Design (below right) - Click for high-res image galleries

Hot on the heels of the upgraded S60 and XC60 R-Design models, Volvo has announced two new editions of its top-of-the-line sedan and station wagon.

First up is the S80 Executive, which enhances the Swedish flagship's interior with such touches as ventilated, massaging leather seats, an analog clock, plush carpeting and leather on the door panels and instrument cluster - the latter a first for Volvo. In a particularly aspirational touch, Volvo is also offering an optional mini fridge in the back with a pair of crystal drinking glasses.

Meanwhile the V70 R-Design doesn't get the upgraded engine from its aforementioned stablemates - buyers can choose from a range of powertrain options - but does benefit from a number of cosmetic enhancements. Satin-finish door mirrors house LED turning indicators, new 18-inch wheels are installed, while the interior is swaddled in two-tone, high-contrast black and white leather.

Both models come equipped with Volvo's Sensus infotainment system, which places the touchscreen display high up on the dashboard to help the driver keep his or her eyes on the road. Follow the jump for the full press release and check out the high-res images in the galleries below.

Gallery: 2012 Volvo S80 Executive

Gallery: 2012 Volvo V70 R-Design

Continue reading Volvo announces new S80 Executive and V70 R-Design

Volvo announces new S80 Executive and V70 R-Design originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 May 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volvo recalls various 2011 models over fuel cutoff calibration fears

Zach Bowman — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Recalls, Safety, Crossover, Volvo

Volvo fuel shutoff recall models - Click above for high-res image gallery

Volvo and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration have announced that the Swedish automaker will recall some 6,046 vehicles from the 2011 model year due to a possible flaw in the engine control module. According to NHTSA, a fuel shut-off parameter in the software is too sensitive, and under certain conditions, the engine may stall. Volvo is concerned that the problem may lead to an accident. A total of four models are covered in the recall, including the 2011 S60 and S80 sedans along with the XC60 and XC70 softroaders.

Volvo is scheduled to begin the recall on or before December 10, and owners will have their vehicle's software updated free of charge to fix the problem. Concerned drivers may contact Volvo directly at 1.800.458.1552 or at customercare@volvoforlife.com.

Gallery: Volvo Fuel Cut-Off Recall

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Volvo recalls various 2011 models over fuel cutoff calibration fears

Volvo recalls various 2011 models over fuel cutoff calibration fears originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2007-2010 Volvo S80 recalled for tire-pressure monitoring system

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 16:31:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Recalls, Safety, Volvo

The ever-conscious safety fanatics at Volvo have realized it's unwittingly made a mistake on their 2007-2010 S80 sedans. It seems that the maximum permissible tire pressure information was printed incorrectly in the owner's manuals and on the sticker pasted to the vehicles' door jams. Worse, that same incorrect inflation data is hard-coded into the cars' tire-pressure monitoring systems.

Volvo claims that it has never received any complaints on the issue and that it found the problem on its own. Naturally, though, the Swedish automaker is keenly interested in getting the problem rectified and will replace the incorrect manuals and stickers, and update the S80's software to correct the tire-pressure monitoring system.

We've posted the recall information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration after the break. Owners are urged to call Volvo at 1-800-458-1552 or email customercare -at- volvoforlife.com for further information.

[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration via Kicking Tires]

Continue reading 2007-2010 Volvo S80 recalled for tire-pressure monitoring system

2007-2010 Volvo S80 recalled for tire-pressure monitoring system originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volvo introduces new direct injected, turbocharged 2.0-liter GTDi

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Volvo

Volvo 2.0-liter GTDi engine - Click above for high-res image gallery

Direct injection and turbocharging go together like peanut butter and jelly. Abbot and Costello. Brett Favre and protracted retirement negotiations. And it's easy to understand why. Few of us seem willing to give up performance in the name of fuel efficiency and the combined efforts of these two technologies squeeze both extra ponies and extra mileage out of a small-bore powerplant.

Volvo's first Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection (GTDi) engine will displace 2.0 liters and will offer up 203 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque at just 1,750 RPM (plus an overboost function unleashing another 15 lb-ft for short bursts). Volvo will first use the new mill in its European S80 sedan, to be followed closely by the V70 and XC60 models.

The new GTDi engine also features variable valve timing on both camshafts, further improving efficiency, and it will be offered with either Volvo's dual-clutch fully automatic six-speed Powershift transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. We fully expect Volvo to eventually offer this new powerplant in the United States as a replacement for its aging 2.5-liter inline-five. Click past the break for the official press release.

Gallery: Volvo 2.0-liter GTDi engine

[Source: Volvo]

Continue reading Volvo introduces new direct injected, turbocharged 2.0-liter GTDi

Volvo introduces new direct injected, turbocharged 2.0-liter GTDi originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volvo recalls over 140K 2001-2005 and 2010 MY vehicles over fuel system issues

Michael Harley — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 09:57:00 EST

Filed under: Government/Legal, Recalls, Safety

2010 Volvo XC60 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Vehicles manufactured by Volvo are the subject of two different recalls newly announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA). The recalls, both involving problems with fuel systems, cover more than 140,000 vehicles manufactured within the past decade.

The first recall is directed at 136,100 2001-2005 model year S60, S80, V70, XC70, and XC90 vehicles sold and operated in warmer climates. According to NHTSA, the fuel pump can develop cracks in its flange when exposed to hot temperatures (and thermal cycling) combined with varying fuel quality. A compromised flange may leak fuel and/or result in a fire. Owners are instructed to bring their vehicles into the dealer for inspection. If the part is defective, Volvo will replaced it with modified flange at no charge. The recall campaign is scheduled to begin in January 2010.

The second recall is directed at 5,253 2010 model year XC60 vehicles. According to NHTSA, a fuel line rail cover designed to protect the fuel lines on the XC60 may be improperly attached, thus exposing the lines to damage. The damaged pieces may leak, possibly resulting in a fire. Owners of the affected models are asked to bring their vehicles to the dealer for inspection and/or a repair at no charge. The recall campaign is scheduled to begin in January 2010.

Owners are asked to contact NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 or visit www.safercar.gov for more information. The full text from both recall notices is after the jump.

Gallery: 2010 Volvo XC60

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Volvo recalls over 140K 2001-2005 and 2010 MY vehicles over fuel system issues

Volvo recalls over 140K 2001-2005 and 2010 MY vehicles over fuel system issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Dec 2009 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volvo mulling S80 R-Design?

Dan Roth — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 10:35:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Volvo, Design/Style

Volvo has transitioned from R-badged cars delivering increased performance to R-Design vehicles carrying more visual horsepower, but no additional underhood muscle. Volvo's R-Design models are well-trimmed and attractive, and Volvo wants to see if there's interest in an S80 wearing more athletic trappings. A tentative step toward a full-blown R-Design S80 is being tried in the UK, where an R-Design interior package is available on Volvo's top sedan.

The toe-dip into full-on R-Design waters will indicate whether there's enough demand to warrant working up a body kit. Tack-ons would include a rear spoiler, sportier fascia, and sill extensions for more visual aggression. The typical R-Design chassis tweaks wouldn't be needed, since the S80 can already be had with a sport-tuned chassis, so really, Volvo's most of the way to an R-Design S80 already.

Volvo is also keeping up with its green consciousness by fitting Start/Stop to many of its models, and testing reaction to that system on the S80 is another area Volvo is researching. Putting a Stop/Start S80 into production is possible, but would require some substantial rewiring and would increase the cost of the car. Volvo spokesman Chris Wailes told Autocar that hybrids will be in the model mix for 2012, and will use the most efficient engine possible mated to hybrid equipment that should return better economy than what Honda and Toyota are currently serving. However, don't expect a hybrid Volvo S80 to compete with the likes of the Toyota Prius.

[Source: Autocar]

Volvo mulling S80 R-Design? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 02 Aug 2009 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volvo unveils long-wheelbase S80L for Chinese market

Frank Filipponio — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:59:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, China, Volvo

Just like the long-wheelbase Audi A4L that debuted in China yesterday, Volvo has just rolled out a longer S80 with an extended wheelbase designed to suit Chinese premium car buyers' tastes. Unlike the Audi, we have a profile shot to show the extra length of the Volvo S80L. Volvo entered the Chinese market with its locally built S40 in 2006. Now it has made the decision to produce this market-specific version of the brand's flagship sedan in China, as well. The S80L gets stretched a full 14 cm (5.5 inches), and all of that extra space goes into the rear seat area. You have to wonder if these longer versions will eventually make their way into other markets.

One additional note: While most of the commenters on the Audi A4L post spent their time arguing about racism, stereotypes, average heights and nutrition, we want this one to be all about the car. So just to be clear, nobody was saying that all Chinese people are looking for additional height. We're sorry if some of you thought that was implied in the post. In fact, Chinese people apparently want extra length... in their premium cars. Get your minds out of the gutter.

[Source: Volvo]

Continue reading Volvo unveils long-wheelbase S80L for Chinese market

Volvo unveils long-wheelbase S80L for Chinese market originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Attractive in aluminum: Heico Sportiv S80 shines at 2007 SEMA show

Drew Phillips — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 18:23:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Sedan, Volvo

Click above image for a high resolution gallery of photos

German Volvo tuner Heico Sportiv brought the goods to the 2007 SEMA Show with its S80 T6 HPC Concept. The car has been more than a year in the making and features a 7-layer "aluminum effect" paint job that looks absolutely stunning in person and pretty darn good in pics, too. This Swedish beauty also packs a serious punch, with a 350-horsepower inline-6 that has been tuned to run on E85 ethanol. Because the original show car was based on the front-wheel-drive S80, Heico converted the car to Volvo's AWD system so that it could put the power down more efficiently. Other hi-po parts include 13.9-inch big brake kit with 6-piston calipers, a sport-tuned suspension system that rides 1.5-inches lower than stock, and lightweight forged wheels wrapped with Continental tires.

The inside of the car looks just as good as the outside with a carbon fiber-look silver aluminum console and leather covering the headliner, instrument panel and door panels. The rear seats have been exchanged with separate bucket seats, and the front seats also have thicker side and thigh bolsters.

For more details, follow the jump for the press release and click on the gallery for more than 15 high resolution shots of the car.

Gallery: Heico Sportiv Volvo S80 T6 HPC

Continue reading Attractive in aluminum: Heico Sportiv S80 shines at 2007 SEMA show

Attractive in aluminum: Heico Sportiv S80 shines at 2007 SEMA show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Oct 2007 18:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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E85-swilling Heico Sportiv Volvo S80 High Performance

Chris Shunk — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 09:03:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Volvo

Click image for high-res gallery

With SEMA right around the corner, it's high time Autoblog is flooded by audacious performance tuners' creations showing more bling than 50 Cent. The German aftermarket gurus at Heico Sportiv passed up plenty of sweet German hardware in favor of the Swedish Volvo S80, and the end result is far cooler than anything you can pick up at Ikea. Heico foregoes Yamaha-sourced V8 in favor of the turbocharged inline six, whose power has been pumped to 350 HP running on biofuel E85. With that kind of power in tow, the Heico Sportiv Volvo S80 will hit 60 MPH in about 5.8 seconds, and more power is promised out of the tuned powerplant by the time SEMA begins.

Some of the more impressive mods come in the styling department, and the beautiful paint job sets the tone. Designers employed seven layers of paint to make the car look metallic, and we'd say, "mission accomplished." The S80's stance is widened with the use of larger rims and tires and flared-out wheel arches. Auto-running integrated LED headlights, larger air ducts, integrated spoiler flaps, and sweet leather seats round out the major mods. Heico has made one heck of a beautiful tuner in its modified S80, and we'll be at SEMA for the official unveiling. Hit the jump to read Volvo's press release, or click on the image above to view Autoblog Green's high resolution photo gallery.

[Source: Autoblog Green]

Gallery: SEMA S80 Heico

Continue reading E85-swilling Heico Sportiv Volvo S80 High Performance

E85-swilling Heico Sportiv Volvo S80 High Performance originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2007 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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IIHS tests reveals that money doesn't always buy safety

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Safety, Acura, BMW, Cadillac, GM, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo

Click the image above for a gallery of all the IIHS contenders.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has just released its most recent round of crash tests, rating everything from the Kia Amanti to the BMW 5-series in one fell swoop. With a focus set on more luxury-oriented vehicles, the IIHS tested six new models to destruction, and walked away with results for front, side and rear impacts.

Topping the list, were the 2007 Acura RL, Kia Amanti and Volvo S80, all of which earned top marks. The S80, not surprisingly, garnered the Institute's Top Safety Pick for overall crash worthiness, rating good in all three categories, plus having standard stability control. The BMW 5-series didn't fare as well, getting a "marginal" score on the side impact test, despite being equipped with side airbags.

Mercedes asked the IIHS to retest the 2007 E-Class after only scoring an "acceptable" rating when test previously. After re-engineering a number of interior bits, the score remained the same, although the Institute noted a slight improvement, but not enough to affect the overall score. IIHS president, Adrian Lund, remarked that the E-class could have earned the Top Safety Pick award if the side impact rating had increased.

The IIHS also retested a revised version of the 2007 Cadillac STS, which included reinforced B-pillars, front door trim and a modified side torso airbag, which resulted in an "acceptable" rating.

The Institute made it a point to say that nearly every passenger vehicle now earns a top rating for frontal crashes, but side and rear impacts remain all over the board.

The full IIHS press release is posted after the jump.

[Source: IIHS]

Gallery: IIHS Luxury Vehicle Results - August

Continue reading IIHS tests reveals that money doesn't always buy safety

IIHS tests reveals that money doesn't always buy safety originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Aug 2007 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volvo S80, Scion xB score 'good' on IIHS crash tests

Dan Roth — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 08:27:00 EST

Filed under: Safety, Scion, Volvo

"Good" is such a broad term. When we go looking at crash test data, "good" is not the word that grabs us by the earlobes and says "Hey! I'll save your tail!" "Good" indicates a level of competence perhaps elevated from average levels of acheivement, but the word doesn't connote stellar performance upon first glance. When you realize that "good" is where the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) ratings top out, the word has more gravity when shopping for a safe vehicle.

Today, the IIHS announced the two newest members of the "good" club. The Volvo S80, now in its second generation and based off the EUCD platform that will soon be ushering the P2's out the door entirely, has scored a good rating for frontal collisions. Another vehicle entering its second generation, the Scion xB, has also managed to rack up a green box on the test.

Both models' predecessors also earned "good" scores on the IIHS frontal collision test. The S80 hasn't been tested for side impacts by the Institute, but we'd safely bet on Volvo's mature SIPS (Side Impact Protection System) technology to keep us intact. The xB on the other hand, received a "Poor" score in its previous guise, and the new model hasn't been tested yet. The IIHS data, when combined with the Euro NCAP results and NHTSA results, provide a pretty complete picture of how all-around safe a car is, and good scores with the IIHS usually translate to safer ratings with the other agencies, as well.

[Source: IIHS]

Volvo S80, Scion xB score 'good' on IIHS crash tests originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Holy Geneva! 2007 Volvo S80 revealed in advance of Swiss debut

Chris Paukert — Mon, 30 Jan 2006 07:00:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Trends, Sedan

Volvo's renaissance started with 1999's S80 flagship sedan, and the turnaround appears to have come full circle with its successor, seen here for the first time without camouflage. In what looks to be yet another premature press photo distribution leak, the good folks who frequent SwedeSpeed have provided us with an advance glimpse into Gothenburg's gurus latest... well ahead of the car's Geneva coming-out party.

The exterior is clearly evolutionary and couldn't be anything other than a Volvo, but this is hardly unfortunate. Up top, more aggressively raked glass, along with a sharkfin antenna presents a sportier roofline, and the S80's corners have been substantially radiused, with headlights and taillamps appearing to 'wrap around' the car's perimeter, neatly integrating the front end turn signal lens in the process. Side cladding has also been minimized for a cleaner profile, and subtle cues like the second set of inboard character lines on the hood and less timid exhaustwork afford the S80 a more energetic and dynamic look.

[Further exposé including 7 additional photos inside-and-out after the jump]

Continue reading Holy Geneva! 2007 Volvo S80 revealed in advance of Swiss debut

Holy Geneva! 2007 Volvo S80 revealed in advance of Swiss debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jan 2006 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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