Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Volvo latest Euro carmaker to cut production, workers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/volvo-latest-euro-carmaker-to-cut-production-workers/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/volvo-latest-euro-carmaker-to-cut-production-workers/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/volvo-latest-euro-carmaker-to-cut-production-workers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Volvo Ghent

Amidst economic turmoil, the less-than-stellar news continues to develop in Europe. In the context of automobile industry, Belgium appears to be the latest region to feel the effects of the crisis, as Volvo has announced it will reduce production in its Ghent facility in 2013.

The Volvo assembly plant currently produces the S60, XC60, C30 and V40 models. It employs roughly 5,200 people. This news comes on the heels of Ford announcing the shuttering of its own Belgian facility, located in Genk.

According to Lars Wrebo, Senior Vice President Manufacturing at Volvo, "We have had a very positive trend during a number of years, with 2011 as a record year." He continued, "Now we see customer demand declining and we need to rebalance our production output. In today's market situation, flexibility is essential in the automotive industry."

In order to address the declining demand, production volume will be reduced from the current rate of 59 cars per hour to 54 cars. The result of this move on the workforce is the non-renewal of approximately 300 agency worker contracts. Check out the press release below to see all the details on this announcement.

Continue reading Volvo latest Euro carmaker to cut production, workers

Volvo latest Euro carmaker to cut production, workers originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>belgiumc30s60v40volvoxc60Mon, 29 Oct 2012 08:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20361918/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/29/volvo-latest-euro-carmaker-to-cut-production-workers/20361918/article-detail.xml 20361918 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/volvo-ghent_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/volvo-ghent.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Volvo V40 R-Design leaves us feeling blue in Paris]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/2013-volvo-v40-r-design-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/2013-volvo-v40-r-design-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/2013-volvo-v40-r-design-paris-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2013 Volvo V40 R Design - live on Paris Motor Show floor

We were more than a little bummed when Volvo proclaimed it didn't intend to bless the United States with its V40 hatchback/wagon. We're even more bummed now that there's this newly debuted R Design model at the Paris Motor Show.

Even though the most powerful engine remains the same 254-horsepower turbo five cylinder (a 115-horsepower diesel engine is also on offer), there are a number of worthwhile updates to the R Design over the standard V40. A reworked front fascia, rear diffuser, twin exhaust and five-spoke diamond-cut wheels in either 17- or 18-inch sizes add some spice to the car's already attractive shape.

If that's not enough, buyers can opt for the R Design Lux package to enjoy an embossed leather interior along with other high-end bits and pieces. There are also blue accents crowning the dash and its three switchable treatments - Elegance, Eco and Performance.

Perhaps most intriguingly, though, Volvo is offering a suspension package that's been tuned by Swedish racing driver Robert Dahlgren. The chassis sits 10mm lower than stock, with firmer springs and shocks, uprated struts, monotube dampers and thicker antiroll bars. Yep, we wish we could get our hands on one of these in the States... And while we're wishing, how about a Polestar update, too?

In any case, feel free to peruse the press release below and check out our high-res Rebel Blue image gallery above.

Continue reading 2013 Volvo V40 R-Design leaves us feeling blue in Paris

2013 Volvo V40 R-Design leaves us feeling blue in Paris originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volvo v40 r designparisparis 2012paris motor showr designrobert dahgrenv40v40 r designvolvoFri, 28 Sep 2012 17:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20336186/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/28/2013-volvo-v40-r-design-paris-2012/20336186/article-detail.xml 20336186 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/volvo-v40-r-design-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/volvo-v40-r-design-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo V40 Cross Country is ready to make the neighbors jealous]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/volvo-v40-cross-country-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/volvo-v40-cross-country-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/volvo-v40-cross-country-paris-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Volvo V40 Cross Country - live on Paris Motor Show floor

Volvo fans that have dreamed of having the convenient size of a small wagon or hatchback with the trendy styling of a crossover are today one step closer to living in automotive paradise. After recently releasing every bit of granular detail about the model, Volvo has gone ahead and pulled the curtain back on its V40 Cross Country.

We must say that, as far as exercises in extending a single model go, we think this Cross Country is pulled off fairly well. The basic V40 goodness is, of course, baked in, with the added benefit of standard all-wheel drive for the models sporting Volvo's lively T5 turbocharged engine. Add to that - as well as a full range of five engine options, including three diesels - a set of menacing black and silver wheels and a beefy body kit, and we're almost onboard with this higher capability V40.

Of course "almost" is probably as close as we're going to get while living in North America, where Volvo still has no plans to sell this particularly right-sized small car. Ah well, at least we have our live gallery of images from the Paris Motor Show floor.

Continue reading Volvo V40 Cross Country is ready to make the neighbors jealous

Volvo V40 Cross Country is ready to make the neighbors jealous originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volvo v40 cross countryparisparis 2012paris motor showv40v40 ccvolvoThu, 27 Sep 2012 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20335025/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/27/volvo-v40-cross-country-paris-2012/20335025/article-detail.xml 20335025 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/volvo-xc40-03-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/volvo-xc40-03-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo lifts up new Volvo V40 Cross Country for the whole world to see [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/volvo-lifts-up-new-volvo-v40-cross-country-for-the-whole-world-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/volvo-lifts-up-new-volvo-v40-cross-country-for-the-whole-world-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/volvo-lifts-up-new-volvo-v40-cross-country-for-the-whole-world-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Volvo V40 Cross Country - front three-quarter dynamic image

Just a week after seeing the attractive Volvo V40 small wagon in R-Design trim, the Swedish automaker has dropped the details on its Cross Country version. Effectively a scaled-down version of the XC70 wagon we see in the States, the V40 Cross Country adds all-wheel drive ability and butched-up looks to give the car added functionality in a convenient footprint.

Volvo's AWD system will come as standard equipment with T5-powered cars, though not across the full range. Three diesel engines - a 1.6-liter and two 2.0-liter with varying outputs - and two turbocharged gasoline engines - a 1.6-liter four and a 2.5-liter five-cylinder - will make up the powertrain options for this model overseas. Three transmission options will be available as well: a six-speed manual, a six-speed automatic and a six-speed dual clutch.

Of course, the Cross Country package consists mostly of a "crossover-inspired" appearance and trim package. The usual suspects have been targeted for the makeover here: increased ride height, roof rails, new wheels, revised front and rear bumpers and an integrated skid plate have all been added to the new V40.

Despite the rather fluffy premise behind this new iteration, the nice overall design of the V40 carries the Cross Country version into the realm of Euro cars that we'd love to have a crack at here in the States. Volvo has repeatedly said that it will not bring the V40 to the U.S., but thus far, mum's the word on its Cross Country derivative.

Continue on below to see a video of the new Volvo V40 Cross Country "Finding Joe." (Just click through to see what we mean.)

Continue reading Volvo lifts up new Volvo V40 Cross Country for the whole world to see [w/video]

Volvo lifts up new Volvo V40 Cross Country for the whole world to see [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volvo v40 cross countryv40v40 cross countryvideovolvoWed, 19 Sep 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20327672/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/19/volvo-lifts-up-new-volvo-v40-cross-country-for-the-whole-world-t/20327672/article-detail.xml 20327672 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-volvo-v40-cross-country-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-volvo-v40-cross-country-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Volvo V40 R-Design is swift safety in high style]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/13/2013-volvo-v40-r-design-is-swift-safety-in-high-style/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/13/2013-volvo-v40-r-design-is-swift-safety-in-high-style/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/13/2013-volvo-v40-r-design-is-swift-safety-in-high-style/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Volvo V40 R-Design - front three-quarter studio shot in Rebel Blue

As if we weren't already jealous enough about Europe getting one of the safest and most stylish Volvo cars ever made, the Swedish automaker goes and drops the R-Design treatment on its new hatchback/wagon. Unlike some other R-Design models, the 2013 Volvo V40 R-Design doesn't get any additional power under the hood, but it does come with a more aggressive styling and a lower, firmer suspension setup.

Looking like the world's edgiest Smurf, the V40 R-Design receives restyled fascias, some slick five-spoke alloy wheels and this exclusive paint color, Rebel Blue - although this model is also available in six other colors. Opting for the Sport chassis gives the five door an even sportier look and feel with a suspension that has been lowered by 10 millimeters. Volvo has made sure to give the V40 R-Design a cabin design that fits the upgraded exterior styling with features like embossed seats with a blue R-Design logo, blue background on the interactive gauge cluster, unique aluminum dash inlays and a black headliner. All of the black leather throughout the cabin is also accented with contrasting white stitching.

The V40 R-Design does carry over the same engine outputs compared to the regular V40 models, but this isn't exactly a bad thing about the car. Buyers can still get the car with the efficient 115-horsepower diesel engine or they can choose the 254-hp turbocharged inline-five. For improved handling, the springs, shocks and sway bars have all been tuned specifically for the V40 R-Design in cooperation with the Volvo Polestar Black R race team.

With the V40 already targeting younger buyers, Volvo expects this sporty new R-Design model to account for about 10 percent of the model's sales.

Scroll down to view Volvo's official press release.

Continue reading 2013 Volvo V40 R-Design is swift safety in high style

2013 Volvo V40 R-Design is swift safety in high style originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Sep 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volvo v40polestarr-designv30v40volvoThu, 13 Sep 2012 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20322063/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/13/2013-volvo-v40-r-design-is-swift-safety-in-high-style/20322063/article-detail.xml 20322063 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-volvo-v40-rdesign_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-volvo-v40-rdesign.jpg <![CDATA[European NCAP crowns Volvo V40 safest new car ever tested]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/02/european-ncap-crowns-volvo-v40-safest-new-car-ever-tested/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/02/european-ncap-crowns-volvo-v40-safest-new-car-ever-tested/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/02/european-ncap-crowns-volvo-v40-safest-new-car-ever-tested/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



One of the safest cars ever built will not be sold in the United States. The Euro NCAP, similar to our National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, put the all-new 2013 Volvo V40 through a battery of crash tests and found that it is one of the safest cars it has tested.

The Euro NCAP's testing consists of cars being tested in four categories (adult occupant, child occupant, pedestrian and safety assist) for vehicle safety, and the V40 drove (or more likely was towed) away with some of the top scores the agency has ever handed out. The 98 percent adult occupant rating is the highest result recorded by the Euro NCAP, while the car's innovative pedestrian airbag helped it receive an equally impressive 88-percent rating for pedestrian safety. This safety device is actually an airbag underneath the hood, and when contact with a pedestrian is detected, the airbag inflates, raising the rear portion of the hood which helps to cushion the a person's head or body as it makes contact with the car.

The Volvo V40 was perfect in the safety assist category thanks to systems like Pedestrian Detection, City Safety, auto braking and numerous other active safety features. The only knock that the V40 took was to child occupant protection. Its 75-percent rating is one of the lowest of the recent batch of tested cars, which also includes the Audi A3, Kia Cee'd and Ford B-Max.

In addition to being one of the safest Volvos produced so far, the V40 is also one of the best-looking Volvo models ever. We already had a chance to sample the new V40 back in June, and we were impressed with the car and what it could do to bolster Volvo's U.S. lineup. Still, Volvo has stated that it has no intentions of selling its new compact hatchback here, despite the growth of the premium small car segment in this market.

Scroll down for Volvo's press release.

Continue reading European NCAP crowns Volvo V40 safest new car ever tested

European NCAP crowns Volvo V40 safest new car ever tested originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 02 Sep 2012 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volvo v40crash safetycrash testeuro ncapv40volvoSun, 02 Sep 2012 12:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20312792/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/02/european-ncap-crowns-volvo-v40-safest-new-car-ever-tested/20312792/article-detail.xml 20312792 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-volvo-v40-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-volvo-v40-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Stefan Jacoby says Volvo contemplating Mini rival]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/stefan-jacoby-says-volvo-contemplating-mini-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/stefan-jacoby-says-volvo-contemplating-mini-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/stefan-jacoby-says-volvo-contemplating-mini-rival/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Volvo C30 R Design - Red - rear three-quarter dynamic cornering view

Up or down? That's the question about which way Volvo is going to take its brand: solidly into premium, full-size sedan luxury or into a smaller near-premium offering to challenge what is, right now, a very hot segment. Most of the chatter has centered around the former option, with Volvo declaring it would go for the top luxury guns, a patent filing suggesting an S100 flagship, and talk of a C90 luxury coupe to fight models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe.

In between, that there's been speculation on the other side, with reports that Volvo is looking for a partner on a small car. Officials have themselves confirmed that within ten years, they won't have an engine larger than four cylinders, and everyone figuring that Volvo will have to do something with the spot occupied by the expiring C30 other than rename it and add two doors. The V40 takes the fight to the A3 and BMW 1 Series five-door, but what about premium and popular subcompacts like the Mini Cooper, Audi A1 and A-Class?

Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby tells Automotive News that the Swedish brand is considering a model in that space, but to do so would require not only the aformentioned partner, but a smaller engine. We're not sure what to make of the engine comment, since it apparently already has smaller engines planned for its larger line. If such a car comes, it won't be soon; Jacoby says his priorities now are "Volvo's core ranges" and getting the Scalable Platform Architecture fully integrated into the brand's next-generation cars. But with the scattershot temperament of Volvo news lately, who knows.

Stefan Jacoby says Volvo contemplating Mini rival originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Aug 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c30small volvostefan jacobyv40volvovolvo c30volvo hatchbackTue, 21 Aug 2012 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20304496/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/21/stefan-jacoby-says-volvo-contemplating-mini-rival/20304496/article-detail.xml 20304496 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2011-volvo-c30-r-design-rear_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2011-volvo-c30-r-design-rear.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo planning V40 Polestar with all-wheel drive, 280 hp]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/volvo-planning-v40-polestar-with-all-wheel-drive-280-hp/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/volvo-planning-v40-polestar-with-all-wheel-drive-280-hp/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/16/volvo-planning-v40-polestar-with-all-wheel-drive-280-hp/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Volvo V40 - front three-quarter view, gray

If you read our recent First Drive of the 2013 Volvo V40, you no doubt remember our verdict: "If the V40 does not make it over to the U.S., then Volvo should issue guns to its entire executive staff so they can summarily shoot themselves in the foot."

Well, here's even more reason for the Swedes to bring us their smart looking C-segment hatchback: The Polestar version of the V40 it reportedly has planned for Europe. According to PistonHeads, Volvo will be announcing the hotted-up variant at the Paris Motor Show in September.

Polestar will take the forthcoming 254-horsepower V40 T5, a car that shares hardware with the 2013 Ford Focus ST, and give it all the kit we've been hoping for in a Focus RS, according to the report. Citing Volvo's UK director, PistonHeads says the V40 Polestar will have at least 280 hp and all-wheel drive, cost about £30,000 ($46,900), and come to market sometime next year.

Volvo planning V40 Polestar with all-wheel drive, 280 hp originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Jul 2012 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volvo v40polestarpolestar performancev40v40 polestarvolvovolvo v40Mon, 16 Jul 2012 14:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20278788/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/16/volvo-planning-v40-polestar-with-all-wheel-drive-280-hp/20278788/article-detail.xml 20278788 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/03-2013-volvo-v40-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/03-2013-volvo-v40-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Volvo V40 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/12/2013-volvo-v40-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/12/2013-volvo-v40-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/12/2013-volvo-v40-first-drive-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Forbidden Fruit For What Ails The Swedes in North America

2013 Volvo V40

We've entered a really good period of automotive excitement if premium-minded European hatchbacks move you. Things just seemed to fall into place suddenly about six months back when it became clear that Mini's lineup was about to have fierce competition from the new Audi A3, soon-to-arrive new Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the still fresh BMW 1 Series hatch and this car here, the all-new Volvo V40.

Regarding the near monopoly Mini has enjoyed in the States among the Euro premium hatch species, the thrill of BMW's boutique brand has turned a bit complacent, leaving plenty of room for competitors to dive in and damage its market share. We like the new Audi A3, a fairly predictable and soberly handsome execution that evolves things nicely from the previous generation.

The real impact models in the segment could well end up being the drastically new A-Class and, if Volvo's new China-Sweden leadership and dealer network keeps it together, this sharp V40.

The whole area north of Verona, Italy, is loaded with remarkable serpentine two-lanes that frequently turn into 1.5-lane affairs. It was here that we performed several long repeat loops in various engine and transmission configurations in an effort to discover both the green and the mean sides of this comely hatchback.

Continue reading 2013 Volvo V40 [w/video]

2013 Volvo V40 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volvo v40featuredfirst driveFirstDrivev40videovolvoTue, 12 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20256348/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/12/2013-volvo-v40-first-drive-review-video/20256348/article-detail.xml 20256348 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-volvo-v40-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2013-volvo-v40-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Heico Sportiv unveils tuned Volvo V40]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/10/heico-sportiv-unveils-tuned-volvo-v40/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/10/heico-sportiv-unveils-tuned-volvo-v40/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/10/heico-sportiv-unveils-tuned-volvo-v40/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Volvo V40 by Heico Sportiv

When a new hatchback or sport wagon hits the European market, it's only a matter of time before the tuners get their hands on it. And in the case of the new Volvo V40, that comes at the hand of Heico Sportiv.

The German tuner has been teasing us with plans to mod the V40 for months now. So with sketches and the promise of a racing version already on the wire, Heico has followed up with the first images of its V40 tuning program.

Mechanical changes center around an ECU reflash for the turbo five that boosts output from the car's standard 237 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque up to 266 hp and 269 lb-ft. Seven-spoke alloys, a full aero kit, and quad ovoid exhaust tips round out the package and set Heico's V40 apart from its stock brethren.

Heico Sportiv unveils tuned Volvo V40 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 Jun 2012 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heicoheico sportivv40volvovolvo v40Sun, 10 Jun 2012 12:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20255286/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/10/heico-sportiv-unveils-tuned-volvo-v40/20255286/article-detail.xml 20255286 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/heico-v40-web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/heico-v40-web.jpg <![CDATA[Heico Sportiv debuts Volvo V40 mods with bio-diesel racer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/heico-sportiv-debuts-volvo-v40-mods-with-bio-diesel-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/heico-sportiv-debuts-volvo-v40-mods-with-bio-diesel-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/heico-sportiv-debuts-volvo-v40-mods-with-bio-diesel-racer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Volvo V40 by Heico Sportiv

The V40 is a vital product not only for Volvo itself, but also for the tuners that specialize in customizing the Swedish automobiles. And among the foremost of them is Heico Sportiv.

The German tuning firm hinted a few weeks ago at its impending line of accessories for the new sportwagon, and has now followed up by announcing the racecar you see here. The modified V40 serves two purposes: The first will be to race at the Nürburgring 24-hour race - presumably next year's since this year's just finished. Secondly, it previews a range of modifications that the company will be offering buyers of the new V40.

The mod job includes a full aero kit, complete with flared wheel arches, front splitter, rear diffuser and a big rear wing. The exhaust, suspension and rolling stock have also been upgraded, capped by a version of Volvo's five-cylinder turbo-diesel tuned to produce 300 horsepower on bio-diesel fuel. That much is hinted at by the "Green Racing" livery that mimics that run by the Volvo team in various touring car series.

The car will make its public debut at the upcoming auto show in Leipzig, Germany, but you can scope it out now in the press release below.

Continue reading Heico Sportiv debuts Volvo V40 mods with bio-diesel racer

Heico Sportiv debuts Volvo V40 mods with bio-diesel racer originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 May 2012 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bio-dieselbio-fuelheicoheico sportivv40volvovolvo v40Tue, 29 May 2012 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20244529/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/29/heico-sportiv-debuts-volvo-v40-mods-with-bio-diesel-racer/20244529/article-detail.xml 20244529 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/v40-heicoweb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/v40-heicoweb.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo XC40 spotted testing in Arizona]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/vovlo-xc40-spotted-testing-in-arizona/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/vovlo-xc40-spotted-testing-in-arizona/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/vovlo-xc40-spotted-testing-in-arizona/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Volvo XC40 Spy Shot

A keen-eyed reader managed to snag a few photos of what looks to be the upcoming Volvo XC40 ahead of the vehicle's debut at the Paris Motor Show. Like most manufacturers, Volvo is keen to offer buyers the small crossovers they demand. With a taller ride height, more ground clearance and a more aggressive front fascia than the V40, the XC40 should do just that.

Drivetrain details are still a bit murky at the moment, but we wouldn't be surprised to see everything from a new diesel to turbocharged gasoline five-cylinder under the hood. The latter of those two should be good for around 254 horsepower.

If the V40 is any indication, the crossover will also boast start-stop technology and brake-energy regeneration in either manual or automatic transmission configurations. Expect to see both front and all-wheel drive variants as well.

The machine above was spotted in Flagstaff, Arizona while out for a little hot-weather testing, though we're told the XC40 isn't destined for the U.S. market. That seems a bit odd to us. The small crossover seems to be a perfect fit for Americans who can't get enough stylish crossovers.

Volvo XC40 spotted testing in Arizona originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>parisparis 2012paris motor showspy shotsv40volvovolvo v40volvo xc40volvo xc40 spy shotsxc40Wed, 09 May 2012 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20234770/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/vovlo-xc40-spotted-testing-in-arizona/20234770/article-detail.xml 20234770 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-volvo-spy-shot-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-volvo-spy-shot-628.jpg <![CDATA[Heico Sportiv gears up to mod new Volvo V40]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/heico-sportiv-gears-up-to-mod-new-volvo-v40/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/heico-sportiv-gears-up-to-mod-new-volvo-v40/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/heico-sportiv-gears-up-to-mod-new-volvo-v40/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Volvo V40 by Heico Sportiv

The emergence of the V40 is arguably the biggest news to come out of Volvo since Ford sold it to Geely. Just as with any new car - European hatchbacks especially - the aftermarket will follow shortly with modifications, and in the case of Volvo, that means Heico Sportiv.

The German tuning house specializes in Gothenburg's finest. The firm already has a new ECU module for the T5 engine in the V40 that brings output up from 237 horsepower to 266 and from 236 pound-feet of torque to 269. Heico has released a pair of renderings previewing what it plans to do with the outside of the slick new sport-wagon.

From the teaser renderings, we can see a new set of lightweight seven-spoke alloys, new bumpers front and rear, side skirt extensions, a relatively low-key diffuser and quad ovoid exhaust tips. In other words, the V40, only slightly more so. Unfortunately, since the V40 isn't earmarked for American showrooms, this may be as close as we'll get.

Heico Sportiv gears up to mod new Volvo V40 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 May 2012 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heicoheico sportivheico sportiv volvo v40v40volvovolvo v40Thu, 03 May 2012 09:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20227790/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/03/heico-sportiv-gears-up-to-mod-new-volvo-v40/20227790/article-detail.xml 20227790 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/heico-v40-sketch1web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/heico-v40-sketch1web.jpg <![CDATA[Jacoby reiterates Volvo considering NA plant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/13/jacoby-reiterates-volvo-considering-na-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/13/jacoby-reiterates-volvo-considering-na-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/13/jacoby-reiterates-volvo-considering-na-plant/#commentsFiled under: ,



Volvo sold 449,255 cars globally in 2011, with 67,240 of those sales coming from right here in the States. By 2020, CEO Stefan Jacoby aims to boost those numbers to 800,000 sales globally and 120,000 here, and to do so, he can't let the exchange rate between the dollar and the euro stand in the way. That's why, according to a report in Automotive News, Jacoby says the company will spend "the next two or three years" considering building a plant in the U.S. or Mexico.

Jacoby made much the same comments six months ago at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show, but now he's added a timeframe to the discussion. Even on the optimistic end, if Volvo decided to build a factory in 2014 and got the site chosen and the facility built in 18 months, it would probably be 2016 before anyone would benefit from locally produced cars. Nevertheless, with the new V40 due for a new generation not long after, that it might make a perfect timing for us to finally get the svelte hatchback we'd much rather have right now.

Jacoby reiterates Volvo considering NA plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>stefan jacobyv40volvovolvo factoryvolvo north americavolvo usvolvo us plantTue, 13 Mar 2012 09:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20191293/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/13/jacoby-reiterates-volvo-considering-na-plant/20191293/article-detail.xml 20191293 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/stefan-jacoby-charging-volvo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/stefan-jacoby-charging-volvo.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo protecting pedestrians with airbags on outside of new V40 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/volvo-protecting-pedestrians-with-airbags-on-outside-of-new-v40/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/volvo-protecting-pedestrians-with-airbags-on-outside-of-new-v40/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/volvo-protecting-pedestrians-with-airbags-on-outside-of-new-v40/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Volvo V40 pedestrian airbag

Above all else, Volvo is known in car circles as being the foremost innovator in technologies intended to improve the safety of its vehicles. While we most often think of the safety of a car's internal occupants, it's important to remember than a two-ton weapon of mass destruction moving at highway speeds is also extremely dangerous to pedestrians outside the car.

In addition to a new Pedestrian Detection system, Volvo has introduced the world's first external airbags on its new five-door V40. Located at the base of the windshield, the airbag deploys from a cavity that expands upward from the rear of the car's hood in the event of a collision with a pedestrian.

We like this solution to the strict European legislation for pedestrian safety, as it doesn't require significant changes to a car's overall styling while still helping to save lives. Check out a brief demonstration of the technology in a rendered video below, along with a related press release that covers all of the V40's safety equipment.

Continue reading Volvo protecting pedestrians with airbags on outside of new V40 [w/video]

Volvo protecting pedestrians with airbags on outside of new V40 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volvo v40external airbagpedestrianpedestrian airbagpedestrian safetyv40volvoThu, 08 Mar 2012 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20189035/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/08/volvo-protecting-pedestrians-with-airbags-on-outside-of-new-v40/20189035/article-detail.xml 20189035 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/volvo-v40-pedestrian-airbag_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/volvo-v40-pedestrian-airbag.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volvo V40 takes aim at A3, 1 Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2012-volvo-v40-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2012-volvo-v40-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2012-volvo-v40-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Volvo V40

With the S40 gone and the C30 on its way out the door, Volvo has a few holes in its line that Audi and BMW are happy to fill with the all-new A3 and 1 Series, respectively.

Enter the V40, a five-door hatch that's one of the most attractive designs from Sweden since the Ikea Skürg. It's a svelte bit of kit, with an organic fascia bleeding into a subtly sculpted hood and capped off with a sloping roofline that can be had in full panoramic glass.

Like the exterior, the interior is a mild evolution of Volvo's current design ethos, with a minimalist, floating center stack situated beneath a large touchscreen display.

Power is provided by Volvo's ubiquitous 254-horsepower turbocharged five-cylinder mated to either a six-speed automatic or manual gearbox, good for a 6.7-second run to 60 mph. Start-stop tech and regenerative braking are standard, along with Volvo's usual suite of safety features.

But alas, the V40 is not for U.S. consumption. Which is a shame, because the States could benefit from an alternative that slots in with the entry-level Germans. Check out the complete press release below.

Continue reading 2012 Volvo V40 takes aim at A3, 1 Series

2012 Volvo V40 takes aim at A3, 1 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volvo v40genevageneva 2012geneva motor showv40volvovolvo v40Tue, 06 Mar 2012 17:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20186853/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/2012-volvo-v40-geneva-2012/20186853/article-detail.xml 20186853 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-volvo-v40-live-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-volvo-v40-live-628.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo drops the full skinny on new V40]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/28/volvo-drops-the-full-skinny-on-new-v40/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/28/volvo-drops-the-full-skinny-on-new-v40/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/28/volvo-drops-the-full-skinny-on-new-v40/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Volvo V40

Few vehicles have received the kind of gradual, bit by bit roll-out that - intentionally or otherwise - the new Volvo V40 has. The Swedish premium hatchback has been the subject of teasers, spy shots and leaks aplenty - including two video clips and a batch of sixteen images that surfaced just yesterday - but they've all lead up to this, its full reveal. (Well, this and its official unveiling next week.)

Scandinavia's answer to the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series - and a potential replacement not only for the C30 but also the S40 and V50 - the new V40 is shaping up as quite a looker, but now we've got the details to go with it. For starters, the V40 will be available with the cleanest diesel Volvo's ever offered, anchored at the other end of the spectrum by a 254-horsepower turbo five good for a 6.7-second sprint to 62 mph. Not too shabby, and the entire range - whether mated to manual gearbox or automatic - is equipped with start-stop engine management and regenerative braking, ensuring that, whichever powertrain is selected, it's running at optimal efficiency.

Being a Volvo, the V40 also incorporates the latest in safety features, including not only low-speed collision avoidance and pedestrian detection with full auto brake but the world's first pedestrian airbag. Although Volvo hasn't revealed whether its new entry-level model will make the transatlantic voyage to these shores, it is projecting that 85 percent of the 90,000 units it aims to sell annually will be delivered in Europe from its assembly plant in Ghent, Belgium - which doesn't bode well for American availability.

Follow the jump for the full press release, scope out the fresh batch of eighteen images in the gallery above, see our previous post for the video clips and watch this space for our live coverage starting this time next week from the floor of the Geneva Motor Show.

Continue reading Volvo drops the full skinny on new V40

Volvo drops the full skinny on new V40 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 geneva motor show2012 volvo v402013 volvo v40genevageneva 2012geneva motor shows40v40v50volvovolvo v40Tue, 28 Feb 2012 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20181749/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/28/volvo-drops-the-full-skinny-on-new-v40/20181749/article-detail.xml 20181749 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webv40_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webv40.jpg <![CDATA[More Volvo V40 images hit the Internet [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/26/more-volvo-v40-images-hit-the-internet-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/26/more-volvo-v40-images-hit-the-internet-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/26/more-volvo-v40-images-hit-the-internet-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Volvo V40

Two images of the 2013 Volvo V40 broke onto Facebook recently and it seems their friends didn't want to be left behind. Fourteen more press shots of Volvo's new five-door hatchback just burgled their way onto the Web, and from the front three-quarter it looks like a worthy competitor to the the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series.

Of course we don't have any more information, so we don't know which other Volvo family member or members it'll replace. However, we do get to see its interior, which is an evolution of that in the S60 and C30. More harmonized in design detail and more striking in materials, the dash cluster is reorganized and housed in metallic surrounds, while the center console moves even further toward Scandinavian minimalism.

We've also got a promo video and a Volvo commercial for the V40, which you'll find after the jump. It will be revealed officially at the Geneva Motor Show, which is hopefully when we'll find out if and when it's coming to the U.S.

Continue reading More Volvo V40 images hit the Internet [w/video]

More Volvo V40 images hit the Internet [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volvo v40breakinggenevageneva 2012geneva motor showv40volvo v40Sun, 26 Feb 2012 12:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20179645/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/26/more-volvo-v40-images-hit-the-internet-w-video/20179645/article-detail.xml 20179645 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013v40leaksvolvo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013v40leaksvolvo.jpg <![CDATA[Striking Viking: Volvo V40 slips out on Facebook ahead of Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/striking-viking-volvo-v40-slips-out-on-facebook-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/striking-viking-volvo-v40-slips-out-on-facebook-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/striking-viking-volvo-v40-slips-out-on-facebook-ahead-of-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Volvo V40

Some automakers try their damnedest to keep their new products under wraps until they're good and ready to show it to the world. (And of those, some succeed more than others.) Others, meanwhile, steadily leak out photos and details - through official channels or back ones - to keep us hooked. We're not quite sure which approach Volvo meant to take with its all-new V40, but we do know we've seen more of this car that's yet to be released than we've seen of others that have. This, however, is our best look at the new Swedish hatch yet.

Ostensibly, this new V40 could replace the C30 hatchback, S40 sedan and V50 wagon in one fell swoop, but we probably won't know more until the Geneva Motor Show. These leaked images come courtesy of the Facebook page of Motoryzacyjny - a Polish car mag whose name this blogger, for all his Eastern European shtetl roots, can't pronounce any better than the rest of you - and it shows us what appears to be a rather shapely sports hatch that aims to give the likes of the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series a run for their money.

Of course, since the range has not yet been officially launched, we've yet to receive word on whether the V40 will make the transatlantic voyage forged by its Viking ancestors to the New World in which we live, but one can hope. One can certainly hope.

Striking Viking: Volvo V40 slips out on Facebook ahead of Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volvo v40genevageneva 2012geneva motor shows40v40v50volvovolvo v40Wed, 22 Feb 2012 10:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20177073/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/22/striking-viking-volvo-v40-slips-out-on-facebook-ahead-of-geneva/20177073/article-detail.xml 20177073 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/web2013-volvo-v40-2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/web2013-volvo-v40-2.jpg <![CDATA[More images of Volvo V40 surface ahead of Geneva debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/more-images-of-volvo-v40-surface-ahead-of-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/more-images-of-volvo-v40-surface-ahead-of-geneva-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/more-images-of-volvo-v40-surface-ahead-of-geneva-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Volvo V40 magazine leak

When the curtains rise on the Geneva Motor Show in a couple of weeks, so will Volvo lift the veil on a vital new product: the V40. Replacing the C30, S40 and V50, the new V40 is the Swedish automaker's assault on the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, et al.

We've had our glimpses at what to expect with a series of spy shots, a couple of teasers and a solitary rear three-quarter shot leaked yesterday, but with the V40's debut rapidly approaching, the Scandinavian motor press has hardly been able to contain itself, leaking a series of shots from the Swedish edition of Auto Motor und Sport.

The images are small and grainy, but from what we can see the new V40 looks rather shapely. The nose follows closely on the formula set down by the larger S60, the windshield looks steeply raked and the hindquarters rather tapered, so don't expect a lot of cargo space back there. We'll wait to see the real thing when we get to Geneva, but for now you can check out the leaked images in the gallery for a closer look.

More images of Volvo V40 surface ahead of Geneva debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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