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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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Report: Volvo mulling sub-S40 sedan, BMW X1 rival

Chris Shunk — Sun, 03 Oct 2010 14:45:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Crossover, Volvo

Now that Volvo is no longer a part of Ford Motor Company, change is inevitable. The Swedish automaker can no longer rely on Ford to supply low-cost global platforms or new powertrains in the future, so that future may include fewer platforms and better model distinction. AutoWeek reports that Volvo will soon go from three platforms to two by adding some new models and taking away some others. On the chopping block are the S40 sedan and V50 wagon. Both have sold reasonably well, but they are reportedly too close in size to the new S60 to be retained. The V70 station wagon will cease to exist after the 2011 model year.

Doug Speck, CEO of Volvo Cars of North America, tells AW that a new vehicle is being considered that will be smaller than the S40. It would do battle against heavy hitters like the BMW 1 Series. The small sedan's all-new platform could also spawn a compact crossover to take on the likes of the BMW X1. Speck cites the feverish growth of the small luxury crossover segment as the main motivating factor to adding a smaller stablemate to the XC60 and XC90. In the short term, the larger S80 and XC90 will also be redone, better positioning Volvo to win sales in China, where large luxury rides are in high demand.

Speck also set expectations for S60 sales in the U.S. Volvo hopes to sell 15,000 to 25,000 copies of the attractive new sedan annually. Volvo sold only 5,895 copies of the outgoing S60 in 2009, though the last-gen model, which first sold way back in 2001, was very long in the tooth.

[Source: AutoWeek]

Report: Volvo mulling sub-S40 sedan, BMW X1 rival originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 03 Oct 2010 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Heico Volvo V70 T6 R-Design hauls more than kids, but carries massive pricetag

Dan Roth — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 11:04:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Wagon, Europe, Volvo

2011 Volvo V70 R-Design by Heico Sportiv - click above for a high-res image gallery

A Volvo wagon from a tuner can't help but sound exciting to us. Externally, the Volvo V70 T6 R-Design by Heico Sportiv delivers what you'd expect for an exclusive Euro express, carrying an eye-watering €70,193 price tag (that's more than $86,000 USD). Metallic sapphire black is the only color available for the limited-edition run of 100 cars. Ride height is lowered by 30 millimeters over attractive five-spoke 19-inch wheels, a sport exhaust system is fitted and there's an ever-important viking-helmet emblem affixed to the car's rump. Heico also re-tunes the turbocharged six cylinder engine, which jumps from its standard 304 horsepower to 330.

Volvo's R-Design dress-up parts are applied liberally, as well. Matte metal accents in and out and sport leather upholstery further set this special wagon apart. The aesthetics are without fault, but then there's the performance details. Despite increased horsepower and claims of "apparently limitless power reserves," the resulting numbers aren't terribly impressive for a car with such sporting overtones and lofty price. 0-62 mph arrives in 5.9 seconds, which is quick, but for about the same money, an Audi S6 Avant packs a 429 pony wallop that reaches 62 mph in just 5.2 seconds, and we're guessing that it'll outhandle the Swede as well. BMW's 535i SE Touring is a veritable bargain, ringing up a €48,000 price tag (just under $59k) and delivering a nearly-identical run 6.0 second run to 100 km/h from its 306 hp engine. On this side of the Atlantic, you could pick up an Ecoboost-powered Ford Flex for $37,000 and get more space and similar pace (Ford's three-row scorcher ran to 60mph in 6.0 seconds for a Car and Driver shoe).

Despite the number-crunching, there's little doubt that this Heico-tuned V70 is among the sportiest Volvo wagons extant, but exclusivity and styling will have to sell this car. It's out-sprinted by a V6 Nissan Altima, and even the Toyota RAV-4 V6 will give it a hard time - not exactly what you'd expect from a "tuner" car.

Gallery: 2011 Volvo V70 R-Design by Heico Sportiv

[Source: Heico Sportiv]

Heico Volvo V70 T6 R-Design hauls more than kids, but carries massive pricetag originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 11:04:00 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 announces diesel plug-in hybrid for 2012 [w/video]

Domenick Yoney — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:55:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Green, Technology, Videos, Volvo, Diesel

Volvo plug-in hybrid - click above for a hi-res gallery

Volvo and Vattenfall have just made an announcement that should hurry the Swedish car maker along the hybrid highway. The two companies have partnered to develop a plug-in diesel hybrid that is expected to begin series production in 2012 with the first three demonstration vehicles to be completed this summer. Volvo, of course, will supply the cars, while the energy giant will bring charging units and the actual carbon-free electricity to the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) equation. Other hybrids being baked by the Ford-owned brand include a "micro-hybrid" for 2011 as well as the ReCharge concept.

Technologically, this PHEV is quite interesting. It will use 71% of its 11.3 kWh pack of lithium ion batteries to power the back wheels for about 30 miles (50 km). After that, the diesel engine takes over and will then drive the front wheels. The charging time for the battery is about five hours through a household type outlet and the car, which will use the body of the Volvo V70, will feature regenerative braking. Hit the jump for the official press release as well as a video outlining the program.

Gallery: Volvo and Vattenfall Plug-in hybrid

Continue reading Volvo announces diesel plug-in hybrid for 2012 [w/video]

Volvo announces diesel plug-in hybrid for 2012 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: Volvo's Vs could get new roofline

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 18:31:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Crossover, Volvo, Rendered Speculation

One of the last bastions of contentment for wagon lovers may be over as reports indicate that Volvo is considering abandoning the classic long and low shape for something a bit more modern. Of course, that means a higher roof-line, ground clearance and seating position, along with a slightly trimmed footprint. In fact, the Swedish automaker seriously considered making a change to its current V70 model before it was released to the public. The true test will come when the new XC60 crossover hits the market, as its sales figures will determine how Volvo designs its next V50 and V70.

Ford's Flex might offer a preview of the shape of things to come from the Swedish automaker, as its design is similar to what may be on offer from Volvo if it scraps the traditional wagon. We wouldn't expect anything too 'trucky' though, as sales of traditional SUVs have fallen off dramatically in the last two years.

Redesigns of the mid-sized S60 and XC90 have also reportedly been pushed a bit further into the future as the automaker struggles to reign in its recent lack of profits. The latest timetable puts the new sedan's appearance in 2010 while the 'ute's redesign isn't expected until 2012, though a refresh could spice things up a bit in 2010 with a possible hybrid drivetrain.

[Source: Autocar]

Rendered Speculation: Volvo's Vs could get new roofline originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Wagons Ho! Volvo V70 gets R-Design treatment

Dan Roth — Thu, 08 May 2008 12:42:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Volvo, UK

Click above for more high-res pics of the Volvo V70 R-Design

Once upon a time, there was a subtle wagon called the V70R who's meek outward appearance belied the snortiest turbo 5-cylinder Volvo has ever put in a production car. All-wheel-drive helped the power get to the ground instead of immolating the front tires, and the R sat atop the V70 trim-level range. Alas, the R is no more. While it was awesome and amusing, it was also outgunned by the competition, even with 300 hard-breathing horsepower. Still, there are those who desire the look and demeanor of the R, while finding no fault with the lesser powertrains that Volvo offers.

Those buyers can find what they're looking for with the new V70 R-Design package on the third generation wagon. Since the demise of the R, the V70 has moved up to become the wagon version of the S80, and the R-Line package adds a little visual oomph and chassis verve to the big estate. Ride height has been reduced and thicker swaybars are added, along with higher durometer bushings in the suspension. Like we saw on the C30 R-Design, matte finish metal accents are added to exterior pieces like the mirror housings and grille surround. Sporty-looking exhaust outlets, a rear spoiler and 18-inch wheels round out the exterior changes. The interior gets blue-faced gauges, unique metal trim pieces, and Volvo's already excellent seats get R-Design logos and sportier bolstering. The R-Design package adds £2,000 or so to the price of a UK V70, a decent price for a handling upgrade and a hunkered look. Volvo hasn't decided whether to bring it to the United States yet. If it does come to the North American market, the V70 R-Design will be a 2009 model, and we'll know by early summer if we have to look longingly across the pond for a clean-looking, sporty-driving wagon.

Gallery: V70 RDesign

[Source: Volvo]

Wagons Ho! Volvo V70 gets R-Design treatment originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 May 2008 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Volvo V70 Police Car debuts in UK

John Neff — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 15:34:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Europe, Volvo

click above image for high-res gallery

While Michigan cops are switching over from Crown Vics to Impalas, the UK police are holding fast with their police cruisers and have debuted the redesigned Volvo V70 in police spec with a new livery. Volvo touts the V70's interior space and increased payload capacity of 724kg (up from 539kg in a standard model) as reasons why bobbies in the UK favor the V70, telling us that these features "ensure that the vehicle can safely transport all the equipment necessary for modern policing, including heavy firearms when the situation demands." Boo-yah. So don't go approaching any V70s that look like this in the UK if you're itching for a fight. Chances are they're packing a lot of heat in their rear underfloor lockable storage area.

[Source: Volvo]

Gallery: Volvo V70 UK Police Car

Continue reading New Volvo V70 Police Car debuts in UK

New Volvo V70 Police Car debuts in UK originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 15:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Volvo gives a new rear end to the customer

Dan Roth — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 19:04:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Videos, Volvo

In designing the new V70, Volvo spent a lot of time focusing on its hindquarters. The tailgate and rear lamp styling are such that they increase interior volume and offer a nice, clean shut line. This video leads you through some eye candy of the EUCD V70. The quick overview gets the wagon freaks among us pumped up for the new Volvo estate. Still shots of the car don't do the styling justice, as the vertical and horizontal elements really come together nicely and shots of the car pulling away from the camera show off the inherent motion in the taut lines.

There are also those among us who yawn and ask what's changed. We'll give them that, it's still a Volvo wagon, so you won't wet yourself like an excited puppy (until the R gets here, that is), but for those who love wagons, there's not too many cars that are as versatile and well thought out as a Volvo five-door. The current P2-based V70s are nice enough drivers, but they're on the brink of being dynamically obsolete, so we're hoping the EUCD platform makes the driving experience that much better. You can be certain that the interior will be a comfortable, well appointed place to spend time, all wrapped in a clean Scandinavian design ethos. Follow the jump for your viewing pleasure.

[Source: Carscoop]

Continue reading VIDEO: Volvo gives a new rear end to the customer

VIDEO: Volvo gives a new rear end to the customer originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Feb 2007 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BusinessWeek identifies fuel sipping luxury cars

Erin Mays — Mon, 28 Aug 2006 14:56:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Budget, Hybrid, Sedan, SUV, Truck, Wagon, Green, Technology, Hatchback

In the event that high gas prices begin hitting even the wealthy, displacement-loving, power-toting blokes among us, BusinessWeek has compiled a list of the top ten most fuel efficient luxury cars. The list, especially when you include the runners-up, is a diverse showing of both automakers and fuel types, with hybrids and diesels finding a place alongside with their gasoline-powered siblings.

Mid-size: Mercedes E320 CDI, runner up: Lexus GS300
SUV: Lexus RX 400h, runner up: Volvo XC/70
Sub-compact: Acura RSX, runner up: Lexus IS250
Compact: Audi A4, runner up: Volvo S40
Small wagon: Audi A3, runner up: Volvo V50
Mid-sized wagon: Volvo V70, runner up: Saab 9-5 SportCombi
Two-seater: BMW Z4 3.0, runner up: Porsche Boxster
Mini-compact: Audi TT, runner up: BMW 330Ci
Full-size: Jaguar XJ8, runner up: Mercedes-Benz S430
Truck: Lincoln Mark LT, runner up: Cadillac Escalade EXT

The cheapest among them to drive is the Acura RSX, with the A3 and A4 coming in second if you actually want to stow some junk in the trunk.

[Source: BusinessWeek]

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BusinessWeek identifies fuel sipping luxury cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Aug 2006 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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