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 brings a whole new 2014 showroom for Geneva's approval]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2014-volvo-lineup-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2014-volvo-lineup-geneva-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/2014-volvo-lineup-geneva-2013/#commentsFiled under: ,

2014 Volvo S60

Sometimes it takes smaller automakers a bit longer than the industry average to rotate and freshen their product lineups. Volvo has taken a big swing for the 2014 model year in that regard, and has brought along a full product portfolio of new cars.

In the main, this means that the Swedish brand has fast-tracked facelifts for its already-attractive assemblage of sedans, wagons and crossovers. Volvo mainstays S60 and S80 have both gotten appearance modifications to freshen them for dealer lots, as well as added features inside the car. We're particularly happy to report that the spirited "60 cluster" models - S60, V60, XC60 - can now be had with optional paddle shifters on new, three-spoke steering wheels.

Below you'll find a whole bunch of image galleries of the revised Volvos, live and in person from the show floor in Geneva. For a bit more background on the Volvo updates, feel free to read our original announcement of the news or scroll down to catch the press release.

Continue reading Volvo brings a whole new 2014 showroom for Geneva's approval

Volvo brings a whole new 2014 showroom for Geneva's approval originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 volvo lineupgenevageneva 2013geneva motor shows60s80v60v70volvoxc60xc70Wed, 06 Mar 2013 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20490625/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/06/2014-volvo-lineup-geneva-2013/20490625/article-detail.xml 20490625 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-volvo-s60-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-volvo-s60-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo to shake off Ford ties with new platforms, engines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/23/volvo-to-shake-off-ford-ties-with-new-platforms-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/23/volvo-to-shake-off-ford-ties-with-new-platforms-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/23/volvo-to-shake-off-ford-ties-with-new-platforms-engines/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volvo Emblem

It would seem Volvo is finally getting around to throwing all of Ford's things out of the apartment. Automotive News reports the Swedish automaker is preparing to unleash a range of new engines as well as a fresh platform designed entirely in house. The powerplants include an all-new four-cylinder engine set to bow before the end of this year before arriving in the US by 2014. Shortly thereafter, the world should get its first glimpse at the next-generation XC60, which will the company's first model to make use of the Volvo scalable platform architecture (SPA). US buyers can expect to see that machine on their roads by early 2015.

The next V70 and S80 will also use the SPA, though those models will carry V90 and S90 designations when they hit dealer floors. But that doesn't mean Volvo has completely weened itself off of Ford technology. The V40 will continue to ride on Ford bones until the model's next chassis can be co-developed between Volvo and Geely.

Meanwhile, Volvo continues to suffer slow sales as a result of Europe's economic crisis. Volvo was forced to cut some 1,100 jobs in the EU last year and January saw sales slide by some 18 percent.

Volvo to shake off Ford ties with new platforms, engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 23 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fords90v90volvoVolvo scalable platform architecturexc60Sat, 23 Feb 2013 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20472216/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/23/volvo-to-shake-off-ford-ties-with-new-platforms-engines/20472216/article-detail.xml 20472216 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/volvo-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/volvo-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo releases extensive model updates for 2014]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/volvo-releases-extensive-model-updates-for-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/volvo-releases-extensive-model-updates-for-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/volvo-releases-extensive-model-updates-for-2014/#commentsFiled under: ,



The 2014 model year is going to see big changes for the Volvo lineup. The biggest news is that the "60 cluster" models (the S60, V60 and XC60) are receiving some substantial updates despite not being all that old, and Volvo is also refreshing the S80, V70 and XC70 models. Of course, the 2014 model year also marks the departure of the C30 and C70 from its lineup, and we still have at least a year to wait until we see the redesigned XC90.

Except for the XC90, all of the 2014 Volvos will be getting noticeable design updates. The S60, V60 and XC60 get more in-depth changes, including a full front facelift. All will use an evolution of the "naughty" design that debuted on the S60. The rear of all three cars get some changes, too, most notably consisting of the reshaped rear fascia with the integrated exhaust outlets. S80, V70 and XC70 will get more minor changes - mostly to bring them in line with the fresher models. The XC70 keeps is rugged plastic cladding, but it gets some stylish wheels with what look like arrowhead accents.

Inside, all of these updated models will new in-car technology such as the Sensus Connected Touch infotainment system and the adaptive digital display with a TFT (thin film transistor) screen. This reconfigurable screen allows the driver to choose between three different themes - Elegance, Eco and Performance - which changes the color and layout of the background. Other new features include heated windshields, Active High Beam Control for the headlights, paddle shifters for a little added driver involvement and IntelliSafe active safety systems (City Safety, Pedestrian Detection and Road Sign Information) The S80, V70 and XC70 will also add heated steering wheels to their respective options sheets, too.

Volvo also promises improved fuel economy across the board, but no US numbers have been released yet. The press releases for all cars are posted after the jump.

Continue reading Volvo releases extensive model updates for 2014

Volvo releases extensive model updates for 2014 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Feb 2013 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 volvo s602014 volvo v602014 volvo v60 phev2014 volvo v60 plug-in hybrid2014 volvo xc60s60v60v60 phevvolvoxc60Tue, 19 Feb 2013 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20467570/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/19/volvo-releases-extensive-model-updates-for-2014/20467570/article-detail.xml 20467570 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-volvo-s60_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-volvo-s60.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo S60, XC60 caught testing with freshened faces]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/24/volvo-s60-xc60-caught-testing-with-freshened-faces/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/24/volvo-s60-xc60-caught-testing-with-freshened-faces/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/24/volvo-s60-xc60-caught-testing-with-freshened-faces/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Volvo XC60 prototype caught testingNeither the Volvo S60 nor the Volvo XC60 are that old, but the Swedish automaker is wasting no time ensuring that two of its most popular products don't get stagnant on the market, a fate that has befallen some of the other products it offers.

Even though these two models helped usher in a new styling direction for Volvo not too long ago, the modest facelifts on tap for both looks like they will bring both products closer to the styling of the handsome overseas V40 hatchback.

Aside from the pointier front end, the XC60 crossover is also getting a revised rear fascia that now includes integrated dual exhaust outlets. The shots of the S60 show us that the sedan's interior will be getting minor tweaks as well, including reshaped front seats and a new shift lever.

Volvo S60, XC60 caught testing with freshened faces originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Jan 2013 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>s60s60 spy shotsspy shotsvolvovolvo spy shotsxc60xc60 spy shotsThu, 24 Jan 2013 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20437209/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/24/volvo-s60-xc60-caught-testing-with-freshened-faces/20437209/article-detail.xml 20437209 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/volvo-s60-spy-shot-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/volvo-s60-spy-shot-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Volvo XC60 scooped before launch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/2014-volvo-xc60-scooped-before-launch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/2014-volvo-xc60-scooped-before-launch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/28/2014-volvo-xc60-scooped-before-launch/#commentsFiled under: ,



A Chinese automotive site has snagged the first spy shots of the updated Volvo XC60, completely uncovered. While the overall profile of the vehicle remains intact, the headlights are heavily revised. Gone are the two-piece units, which featured the separate light strip between the main cluster and the grille. In place now are larger lenses, somewhat reminiscent of those found on the S60 sedan. Also updated is the grille, which gets a little wider to meet the new headlights. The grille receives more chrome, while the lower front fascia has been revised with wider openings. A pair of LED fog lights are pushed way out to the corners.

Out back, the license plate holder gets a bold chrome strip above it, and the recessed exhaust is replaced with chromed, dual exhaust outlets that have been integrated into the bottom of the rear bumper.

Inside, the instrument panel has been revised, with a large, centrally mounted speedo, featuring a digital display in the center. According to reports, this is a similar setup to that of the new V40. As such, it appears that the changes are thoughtful efforts to move the XC60 forward by incorporating the most current Volvo design elements.

2014 Volvo XC60 scooped before launch originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Dec 2012 11:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 volvo xc60faceliftledredesignvolvoxc60Fri, 28 Dec 2012 11:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20412774/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/28/2014-volvo-xc60-scooped-before-launch/20412774/article-detail.xml 20412774 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/volvo-xc60_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/volvo-xc60.jpg <![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[Jeremy Lin takes 'unexpected' turn in new Volvo ad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/jeremy-lin-takes-unexpected-turn-in-new-volvo-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/jeremy-lin-takes-unexpected-turn-in-new-volvo-ad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/jeremy-lin-takes-unexpected-turn-in-new-volvo-ad/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

NBA star Jeremy Lin in Volvo XC60

While there is nothing uncommon about athletes and celebrities showing up in car commercials, it is somewhat surprising when the endorser actually matches up with the product he or she is endorsing. Houston Rockets' point guard Jeremy Lin and the Volvo XC60 can both be labeled smart, underrated and overlooked, which makes them a great pair for Volvo's latest ad campaign, "The Unexpected Ones."

In the commercial spot, NBA star Lin is showed getting into a bright red XC60 R-Design while others wait to be chauffeured off in a sea of black limousines. Then instead of turning to drive through a crowd of fans and photographers, he makes an unexpected turn away from the crowd and toward the open road. Just like the ad, Lin's career has been filled with unexpected turns after he received no college scholarships and went undrafted out of Harvard in the NBA, but then became a household name almost overnight due to his initial success at the top of the key playing with the New York Knicks last year.

Volvo and Lin signed a two-year deal as the automaker hopes that the ad resonates with younger buyers in addition to consumers in China and other emerging Asian markets. Check it out below to see if it resonates with you.

Continue reading Jeremy Lin takes 'unexpected' turn in new Volvo ad

Jeremy Lin takes 'unexpected' turn in new Volvo ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Oct 2012 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volvo xc60advertisingcar commercialshouston rocketsjeremy linnbavolvoxc60Mon, 08 Oct 2012 19:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20344221/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/08/jeremy-lin-takes-unexpected-turn-in-new-volvo-ad/20344221/article-detail.xml 20344221 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/jeremy-lin-volvo-xc60_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/jeremy-lin-volvo-xc60.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volvo XC60 R-Design]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/01/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-polestar-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/01/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-polestar-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/01/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-polestar-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Will Pumping Up With Polestar Make People Notice?

2012 Volvo XC60 R-Design

There are injustices in the auto industry just like in life. Sometimes the right person gets passed over for a job, the best player doesn't get to start or the wrong verdict is reached by a jury. And sometimes a good vehicle just doesn't get bought. That's what is happening with the Volvo XC60, which ended last year at the bottom of the sales list compared to luxury crossover competitors from Lexus, Cadillac, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Lincoln and Acura.

While it's certainly true that luxury segments are packed with qualified candidates on which to spend your capital gains, the XC60 has compared favorably with the lot of them since its inception back in 2008, and so we're continually befuddled by its comparatively low sales numbers.

The blame could fall on a lack of marketing dollars behind it, a dearth of dealerships to sell it, or simply because some are wary of Scandinavian brands after what happened to Saab.
Whatever the reason, the XC60 has gone largely unnoticed by U.S. consumers. In response, Volvo is executing a plan that it hopes will attract new eyeballs not only to its attention-starved CUV, but the entire brand as well. That plan's name is Polestar, and it's already begun making its way across the entire Volvo lineup. The XC60 is one of the first models to receive Polestar's performance infusion, and we're going to find out if it's enough to make buyers take notice.

Continue reading 2012 Volvo XC60 R-Design

2012 Volvo XC60 R-Design originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volvo xc60 r-designfeaturedpolestarr-designreviewreviewsvolvoxc-60xc60xc60 r-designxc60 r-design photosxc60 r-design reviewWed, 01 Aug 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20290257/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/01/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-polestar-review/20290257/article-detail.xml 20290257 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-review.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #289]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/autoblog-podcast-289/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/autoblog-podcast-289/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/autoblog-podcast-289/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Ford F-150 Limited and SVT Raptor, BMW Toyota partnership, Mobius SUV, Supercharged Jaguar XJ

autoblog podcast logo

Episode #289 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Chris, Dan, and Zach are joined by Mike Levine and Raj Sarkar of Ford Motor Company to chat about the F-150 Limited and 2013 Raptor. Other topics include the official announcement of a BMW/Toyota partnership, the Mobius low-cost SUV for Africa, and the switch to a supercharged V6 for the base Jaguar XJ. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #289:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2012 Volvo XC60 R-Design
2012 Honda Pilot
2012 Nissan 370Z
2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco


Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Zach Bowman
Guests: Mike Levine, Raj Sarkar
Runtime: 01:13:02
Get the podcast
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #289

Autoblog Podcast #289 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jul 2012 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>370zautoblog podcastbmw toyotaf-150featuredford raptormalibumalibu ecomike levinemobiuspilotraptorsvt raptorxc60Tue, 03 Jul 2012 16:14:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #289Autoblog01:13:02 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20271231/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/03/autoblog-podcast-289/20271231/article-detail.xml 20271231 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo trims out the cabin of its top seller with XC60 Inscription]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/volvo-trims-out-the-cabin-of-its-top-seller-with-xc60-inscriptio/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/volvo-trims-out-the-cabin-of-its-top-seller-with-xc60-inscriptio/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/volvo-trims-out-the-cabin-of-its-top-seller-with-xc60-inscriptio/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Volvo XC60 Inscription interior cutaway

In the market for a new luxury crossover? You could do a lot worse than the Volvo XC60. But if the existing model isn't luxe enough for your taste, Volvo has now announced the availability of a new trim level that amps things up a notch.

Called the Inscription edition, the gussied-up XC60 gives buyers a choice of special interior trims. Four colors of semi-aniline leather - white, black, reddish tan or beige - are on offer, with black or beige trim to coordinate. The headrests are also embroidered and the tread-plates embossed with the Inscription logo, the center armrest is trimmed in top-stitched leather, and the seats are upgraded with electrically adjustable lumbar support.

Charcoal headliner, a special shade of silver paint and unique 20-inch wheels are also on offer for the special edition of the model that Volvo says is its top seller. The model will be unveiled at the Leipzig Motor Show in June (oddly sales start in April), but you can peruse the special touches in the gallery above and check out the press release after the jump for more details. Pricing has not yet been released, but Volvo is promising "worldwide" availability.

Continue reading Volvo trims out the cabin of its top seller with XC60 Inscription

Volvo trims out the cabin of its top seller with XC60 Inscription originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volvo xc60 inscription2013 volvo xc60 inscriptioninscriptionvolvovolvo xc60volvo xc60 inscriptionxc-60xc60Tue, 17 Apr 2012 17:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20217506/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/17/volvo-trims-out-the-cabin-of-its-top-seller-with-xc60-inscriptio/20217506/article-detail.xml 20217506 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/xc60-inscription_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/xc60-inscription.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volvo XC60 R-Design]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Swedish Model Goes To The Polestar Gym, Comes Back Stronger

2012 Volvo XC60 R-Design front 3/4 view

BMW has its M Division. Mercedes-Benz has AMG and Audi has a range of S- and RS-badged models. Volvo has... well, what does Volvo have, anyway? Yes, we're all familiar with the brand's sterling reputation for safety, and in recent times, for attractive Swedish design. Not long ago, with the introduction of the latest S60 sedan, Volvo even took a stab at injecting some so-called naughtiness into its machinery. And while all those adjectives are welcome, Volvo's reputation in the United States has never really included performance, despite some credible offerings like the 240 Turbo, 850R and S60R.

Interestingly enough, that's not necessarily the case in its home market of Sweden, where Volvo has been racing and winning in competition for years, oftentimes with the assistance of a tuning company known as Polestar. Since 1996, Volvo has been working with Polestar in an official capacity, and for 2012, the automaker is introducing its United States customers to a slew of Polestar-infused models.

Volvo's entire range of five- and six-cylinder models have been bolstered with performance updates from Polestar, and for the purposes of this article, we'll be taking a closer look at the XC60 crossover. As it turns out, this Swedish 'ute offers up plenty of reasons for consideration, even in the face of stiff opposition from Volvo's formidable competition in the entry-level luxury segment.

Continue reading 2012 Volvo XC60 R-Design

2012 Volvo XC60 R-Design originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volvo xc60 r-designfirst driveFirstDriver-designvolvoxc-60xc60Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20198340/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/22/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-first-drive-review/20198340/article-detail.xml 20198340 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-volvo-xc60-r-design-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo recalls 2012 S60, S80, XC60 and XC70 models over wiring harness]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volvo-recalls-2012-s60-s80-xc60-and-xc70-models-over-wiring-ha/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volvo-recalls-2012-s60-s80-xc60-and-xc70-models-over-wiring-ha/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volvo-recalls-2012-s60-s80-xc60-and-xc70-models-over-wiring-ha/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Volvo S60 R-Design

Volvo is recalling its S60, S80, XC60 and XC70 models, all from the 2012-model-year, for an electrical system wiring harness issue. There are 17,000 cars affected by the situation, in which a harness could have been improperly attached to the front seats, resulting in a potential separation when the seat is moved. Such a separation could lead to the improper functioning of airbags and lap-belt pretensioners.

The recall beings on March 30, owners can take their cars to dealers to be fixed free of charge. A bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is after the jump.

Continue reading Volvo recalls 2012 S60, S80, XC60 and XC70 models over wiring harness

Volvo recalls 2012 S60, S80, XC60 and XC70 models over wiring harness originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>National Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsarecallss60s80volvoxc60xc70Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20185146/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/volvo-recalls-2012-s60-s80-xc60-and-xc70-models-over-wiring-ha/20185146/article-detail.xml 20185146 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012volvorecall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012volvorecall.jpg <![CDATA[XC60 Plug-In Hybrid shows where Volvo is headed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/volvo-xc60-plug-in-hybrid-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/volvo-xc60-plug-in-hybrid-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/volvo-xc60-plug-in-hybrid-detroit-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid

Volvo has made it a point to emphasize - surprise - the safety of its plug-in vehicles at recent auto shows. Now, at the Detroit Auto Show, the Swedish automaker has showed off the XC60 Plug-In Gasoline Hybrid Concept, a way to gauge American reaction to the idea of a plug-in CUV from Volvo. Why? Because this concept is headed to the U.S. and Chinese markets - in a different guise and with a lot of changes - within "a couple of years." That means something like 2014-2015. Volvo's first PHEV here could be an XC60 model, or perhaps an S60, said Volvo CEO and President Stefan Jacoby. For now, Jacoby tells Autoblog that the XC60 PHEV shows the direction Volvo is headed.

Stefan Jacoby, VolvoHere are the numbers: a 35-mile all-electric range, a recharging time of just 3.5 hours from a 220V outlet (7.5 hours from a more common 110V). Volvo estimates U.S. fuel economy of 105 miles per gallon equivalent and 50 mpg when the battery runs dry. 0-60 is reached in 5.8 seconds on the way to a 130-mph top speed. Oh, and there are eight gears in the auto transmission.

Gasoline is burned in a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is turbocharged and direct-injected and has stop-start technology. This 280-horsepower powerplant moves the front wheels, and a 70-hp electric motor propels the back wheels (this is known as a through-the-road hybrid). The XC60 PHEV has a 12-kWh lithium-ion battery, but just 66 percent of that (8 kWh) is used. The driver can select three modes - Pure, Hybrid and Power - depending on which type of fuel economy and performance is desired. Details of this technology can be found after the jump, and images of the XC60 test bed are available in our galleries.

Continue reading XC60 Plug-In Hybrid shows where Volvo is headed

XC60 Plug-In Hybrid shows where Volvo is headed originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showplug-in hybridstefan jacobyvolvovolvo phevvolvo xc60xc-60xc60xc60 phevTue, 10 Jan 2012 16:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20144498/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/10/volvo-xc60-plug-in-hybrid-detroit-2012/20144498/article-detail.xml 20144498 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/volvo-xc60-phev-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/volvo-xc60-phev-628.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo plugging XC60 hybrid concept in Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/volvo-plugging-xc60-hybrid-concept-in-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/volvo-plugging-xc60-hybrid-concept-in-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/volvo-plugging-xc60-hybrid-concept-in-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept

With the new year in full swing and the Detroit Auto Show now just days away, the new debuts have been rolling in. And here we have Volvo's centerpiece for the rapidly approaching auto expo: the Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid Concept.

Based, as you might have guessed, on the production XC60 crossover, this technological concept packs a similar drivetrain to the V60 Plug-in Hybrid that just entered production. While its stouter counterpart utilizes a diesel to fill out the internal-combustion side of the hybrid equation, the XC60 concept packs a gasoline engine: those front wheels are driven by a 280-horsepower turbo four coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with a 70hp electric motor driving the rear wheels for through-the-road all-wheel drive.

The result is what Volvo stretches to claim is a 100 mpg fuel economy rating in hybrid mode, 35 miles on electric propulsion alone, or a 0-60 time of 5.8 seconds using the battery as a booster. There's plenty more to digest in the press release after the jump, so click through to delve in, and don't forget to scope out the high-resolution image gallery for a closer look.

Continue reading Volvo plugging XC60 hybrid concept in Detroit

Volvo plugging XC60 hybrid concept in Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 detroit auto showdetroitdetroit auto showhybridnaiasphevvolvovolvo xc60volvo xc60 plug-in hybridvolvo xc60 plug-in hybrid conceptxc60Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20140279/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/04/volvo-plugging-xc60-hybrid-concept-in-detroit/20140279/article-detail.xml 20140279 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webvolvo-xc60-hybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webvolvo-xc60-hybrid.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo expands Polestar software upgrade to more models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/volvo-expands-polestar-software-upgrade-to-more-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/volvo-expands-polestar-software-upgrade-to-more-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/volvo-expands-polestar-software-upgrade-to-more-models/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2012 Volvo S60 R Design

Volvo is spreading the horsepower love around its fleet with a wider array of Polestar Performance software upgrades. 2011 and 2012 XC60, S60 and XC70 models equipped with a T6 engine are now available with a software upgrade that adds in 25 horsepower and 30 pound-feet of torque without impacting fuel economy. Those improvements put the engine's final figures at 325 horsepower and 355 pound-feet of torque, though the extra grunt won't come cheap. Volvo says that the software package will set buyers back a hefty $1,495 including destination when it goes on sale on December 5th.

The company isn't saying why the T6 software costs $200 more than the 23-horsepower upgrade available on vehicles equipped with the automaker's T5 engine. That boost can be had on the C30, C70 and S40, and will eventually show up on the V50. Hit the jump for the brief press release.

Continue reading Volvo expands Polestar software upgrade to more models

Volvo expands Polestar software upgrade to more models originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>polestarpolestar performances60softwarevolvovolvo software upgradexc60xc70Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20115619/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/28/volvo-expands-polestar-software-upgrade-to-more-models/20115619/article-detail.xml 20115619 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/volvo-s60-r-design-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/volvo-s60-r-design-628.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo to gun for top-tier luxury brand status after all]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/volvo-to-gun-for-top-tier-luxury-brand-status-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/volvo-to-gun-for-top-tier-luxury-brand-status-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/07/volvo-to-gun-for-top-tier-luxury-brand-status-after-all/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Volvo XC60

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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinas80top tiervolvovolvo flagshipvolvo s80volvo top tiervolvo xc60xc60Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20033021/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/07/volvo-to-gun-for-top-tier-luxury-brand-status-after-all/20033021/article-detail.xml 20033021 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/volvo-xc60-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/volvo-xc60-630.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo City Safety System gets thumbs up from NHTSA, IIHS [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/volvo-city-safety-system-gets-thumbs-up-from-nhtsa-iihs-w-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/volvo-city-safety-system-gets-thumbs-up-from-nhtsa-iihs-w-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/volvo-city-safety-system-gets-thumbs-up-from-nhtsa-iihs-w-vide/#commentsFiled under: , ,

city safety screen shot

Volvo just got a major thumbs up in the safety department. Both the National Highway Traffic Safety Institute and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have stated that the automaker's City Safety technology helps reduce, and even prevent, low-speed collisions. In fact, the IIHS noted that users of City Safety wind up filing nearly 30 percent less at-fault claims.

The system, which is available on the Volvo XC60, works by monitoring traffic in front of the vehicle. When driving at a speed of between two and 19 miles per hour, the car can apply the brakes should forward traffic suddenly do the same. When the difference in speed between your car and one in front of you is nine mph or less, the Volvo will brake quickly enough to avoid an accident. Above that threshold and you're most likely going into the car in front of you but the damage will be greatly reduced compared to an accident involving cars not utilizing the City Safety System.

We tried it out for ourselves a while back, and our own Dan Roth escaped without putting a dent into his bosses BMW. Check that clip out for yourself after the jump, and be sure to read the full press releases while you're down there.

Continue reading Volvo City Safety System gets thumbs up from NHTSA, IIHS [w/video]

Volvo City Safety System gets thumbs up from NHTSA, IIHS [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city safetyiihsnhtsavideovolvovolvo city safetyvolvo xc60xc60Wed, 20 Jul 2011 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19995249/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/20/volvo-city-safety-system-gets-thumbs-up-from-nhtsa-iihs-w-vide/19995249/article-detail.xml 19995249 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/volvocitysafetyvid_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/volvocitysafetyvid_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo turned to Polestar for S60 and XC60 R-Design performance upgrades]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/21/volvo-turned-to-polestar-for-s60-and-xc60-r-design-performance-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/21/volvo-turned-to-polestar-for-s60-and-xc60-r-design-performance-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/21/volvo-turned-to-polestar-for-s60-and-xc60-r-design-performance-u/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Volvo S60 R-Design
2012 Volvo S60 R-Design - Click above for high-res image gallery

Volvo is known for many things. Well, safety technology, mostly, but not so much performance. Sure, the Swedish automaker has tricked out the occasional sport wagon, but muscle is not really its forte. So where did the extra 25 horsepower and 29 pound-feet of torque come from when Volvo upgraded the latest R-Design S60 and XC60 models? Polestar, if the latest reports are to be believed.

The Volvo tuner, as you may recall, is responsible for Volvo's works touring car racing effort, and also gave us that rip-roarin' baby-blue C30 concept last year. Pretty Swede stuff, if you ask us. And according to Swedespeed.com, it was to Polestar that Volvo turned for those modest, but notable performance upgrades on its R-Design models.

What's more is that Volvo is reportedly looking into ways to offer Polestar performance upgrades to existing customers - say, owners of the pre-boosted S60 and XC60 R-Design, for example - and potentially offering more upgrades on future models. We wouldn't go so far as to suggest that Polestar is becoming to Volvo what AMG is to Mercedes-Benz or the M division is to BMW, but Brabus and Alpina - that is to say, quasi-works-endorsed tuning houses - could be models to look to here.

Volvo turned to Polestar for S60 and XC60 R-Design performance upgrades originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 17:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>polestarr-designs60volvoxc60Tue, 21 Jun 2011 17:36:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19972094/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/21/volvo-turned-to-polestar-for-s60-and-xc60-r-design-performance-u/19972094/article-detail.xml 19972094 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-032012-volvo-s60r-design_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-032012-volvo-s60r-design.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo pondering slimming U.S. model range, adding finance arm]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/10/volvo-pondering-slimming-u-s-model-range-adding-finance-arm/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/10/volvo-pondering-slimming-u-s-model-range-adding-finance-arm/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/10/volvo-pondering-slimming-u-s-model-range-adding-finance-arm/#commentsFiled under:

2011 Volvo C30
2011 Volvo C30 - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Automotive News, Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby has stated that the automaker will likely "trim [its] product line" in the United States over the next few years. Jacoby has not revealed exactly what models will be cut, but instead says that the company's core products here in the States will be the S60 sedan, as well as the XC60 and XC90 crossovers.

Volvo has already announced that it plans to stop selling the V50 and V70 wagons in the United States, and according to Tamara Darvish, a Volvo dealership owner in Rockville, Maryland, the company will likely phase out sales of the S40 sedan. Our own speculation suggests that the C30 premium hatch could be on the chopping block, as well.

Jacoby has said on many occasions that Volvo hopes to sell 120,000 vehicles annually in the United States by 2020. In 2010, Volvo managed to move 53,948 vehicles, and current data suggests that the company is on track to sell between 60,000 and 70,000 vehicles in the U.S. in 2011.

Automotive News also reports that Volvo is looking to start its own captive finance arm here in the U.S. "We're committed to increasing sales here," Jacoby stated, saying that a decision about such a finance division would be made by the end of the year. If this plan gets the green light, it will likely involve a joint venture with a bank or other financial service institution. Currently, Volvo dealerships often obtain financing from U.S. Bank.

Volvo pondering slimming U.S. model range, adding finance arm originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c30s40s60v50v70volvoxc60xc70Fri, 10 Jun 2011 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19964078/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/10/volvo-pondering-slimming-u-s-model-range-adding-finance-arm/19964078/article-detail.xml 19964078 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2010-volvo-c30-large-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2010-volvo-c30-large-1.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo earns $103M in Q1, $370 million for CY 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/12/volvo-earns-103m-in-q1-370-million-for-cy-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/12/volvo-earns-103m-in-q1-370-million-for-cy-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/12/volvo-earns-103m-in-q1-370-million-for-cy-2010/#commentsFiled under: , ,

volvo xc60 logo

Volvo has posted a solid first quarter, with earnings jumping to $103 million. That's nearly double the Q1, 2010 totals, in part due to continued strong demand for its XC60 crossover. The Geely-owned automaker expects the revenue to continue to flow throughout 2011, as the automaker is hoping to increase sales by 70,000 units on the year to 450,000 units.

Volvo has also announced total earnings for calendar year 2010. The automaker says it earned $370 million on the year, again in part because of strong XC60 sales and the successful launch of the S60. High commodity prices weighed down earnings a bit, but the automaker says strong net pricing largely offset the rising price of energy and steel.

Hit the jump to read over Volvo's 2010 earnings press release.

Continue reading Volvo earns $103M in Q1, $370 million for CY 2010

Volvo earns $103M in Q1, $370 million for CY 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 May 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 earningsgeelyoperating profitq1 earningsvolvoxc60Thu, 12 May 2011 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19938708/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/12/volvo-earns-103m-in-q1-370-million-for-cy-2010/19938708/article-detail.xml 19938708 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/volvo-logo-xc60_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/volvo-logo-xc60.jpg -1 2