Volvo has announced that they have issued a recall affecting 42,000 of their flagship sport-utility vehicle, the XC90. The culprit being a faulty battery switch, only the North American models are affected. The switch is prone to create short circuits if the jack handle comes in contact with it. Note that only the MY2005 models are affected.
No reports of the short circuits actually happening were brought in so far. The short circuiting was likely to happen by Volvo technicians themselves, as the instructions for the regular maintenance checks of the MY2005 XC90s affected involved the tampering of the faulty parts.
Volvo dealers will check the affected cars and implement a sticker on each car, instructing future service technicians on how to avoid the short circuits.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety made history today when they announced results of their first crah testings of convertibles. Out of the 10 new drop-tops they tested, the Saab 9-3 Convertible and the Volvo C70 received the Top Safety Pick. They scored "good" for all three criterias: frontal, side, and rear.
The rear impact tests proved to be the most difficult for these cars as fixed roofs can do a great deal in protecting the cabin and the car itself. The Pontiac G6 Convertible did not do so well in every criteria. Some other vehicles tested were the Chrysler Sebring Convertible, BMW 3-Series Convertible, Mitsubishi Eclipse Convertible, and the Audi A4 Cabriolet. Follow the jump to view the official press release.
1st time Institute tests convertibles: Saab & Volvo models are top performers; 3 are marginal in side impact test
ARLINGTON, VA - The Saab 9-3 and Volvo C70 earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's TOP SAFETY PICK award for superior crash protection in the first tests the Institute has conducted of 10 midsize convertible models. The Saab and Volvo earn the top rating of good for protection in front, side, and rear crashes, and both models include standard electronic stability control (ESC), which research shows can help drivers avoid crashes. The lowest rated convertible model overall is the Pontiac G6. It's acceptable for frontal crash protection but only marginal for protection in side and rear impacts. While the Audi A4 and BMW 3 series earn good ratings in frontal offset tests, both are rated marginal for side impact protection and poor for protection in rear crashes.
The TOP SAFETY PICK designation is intended to make it easier for consumers to find top-rated vehicles without sorting through reams of crash test results. To earn this award, a vehicle must have good ratings in all 3 Institute crash tests. It also must have ESC. The Institute adds a requirement for convertibles which must be equipped with rollbars designed to preserve occupants' headroom if a convertible rolls over. Both the 9-3 and C70 are equipped with standard pop-up rollbars behind the rear head restraints that deploy if sensors detect a serious crash.
"The performances of the 9-3 and C70 are impressive," says Institute president Adrian Lund. "These cars combine what convertible buyers should look for if they're shopping with safety in mind. The Saab and Volvo not only provide good protection in high-speed front and side crashes but also have good seat and head restraint designs for protecting against whiplash in rear crashes."
"We wanted to test convertibles because sales are increasing," Lund says. "We also wanted to evaluate a group of vehicles that automakers wouldn't expect us to test to see if crashworthiness improvements in mainstream cars also are being built into convertibles. For the most part we found that this is happening."
Five models earn the highest rating of good for front and side crash protection. Seven of the 10 convertibles have standard side airbags designed to protect the heads of occupants in the front seats, and 8 have ESC as standard or optional equipment.
Absence of roof is inherent disadvantage: High-speed crashes are violent events, and the roof of a hardtop helps to keep people's heads and arms from flailing outside the vehicle. Roofs also provide protection if a vehicle rolls over. Data from real-world crashes indicate that the overall risk of death isn't higher in a convertible, but this doesn't mean there aren't any safety disadvantages.
The absence of a roof makes it a challenge to design a convertible for safety. The roof helps to maintain the rigidity of the structure around the occupant compartment and keep the compartment intact in a serious crash. The main structures of convertibles have to be strengthened to compensate for the support that's lost in removing the roof. The Institute's crash test results show that many modern convertibles compensate well. For example, the 9-3 convertible achieves the same good front, side, and rear crash test ratings as the 4-door sedan version.
Big price tag doesn't ensure a safer car: While the 2 TOP SAFETY PICK winners are relatively expensive, price doesn't necessarily predict good crash test ratings. Two of the least expensive models among the 10 the Institute tested are the Chrysler Sebring and Mitsubishi Eclipse, both of which recently were redesigned and earn good ratings in front and side crash tests.
"You could spend twice as much for an Audi A4 convertible, which is an older design based on the previous A4 sedan, but it's rated marginal in our side test," Lund says. Based on the Volkswagen Eos's performance, the Institute expects a redesigned A4 to perform better when it's released. VW and Audi are owned by the same parent company.
To reduce the risk if a convertible rolls over, it's important to have rollbars, which may be either fixed in place or deploy automatically if sensors detect the possibility of a rollover. Pop-up rollbars are standard on the 9-3, C70, Eos, 3 series, and A4 but unavailable on any of the domestic or Asian brands the Institute tested.
"It makes sense that a rollbar would help preserve some headroom, just as we hope a fixed roof would," Lund says. "But rollbars aren't the same as having a fixed roof. We don't yet know if convertibles with the bars have lower rollover death rates than convertibles without them.
Another innovation on some new convertibles is that the vinyl or cloth top is replaced by a multipiece hardtop that folds into the trunk. It's standard on the C70, Eos, 3 series, and G6. It's optional on the Chrysler Sebring. Folding hardtops aren't as rigid as fixed roofs so they wouldn't be expected to make a convertible more crashworthy than if the top were soft. Foldtops are for comfort, not safety.
"Of course, without a top all bets are off if you're not using a safety belt. Good test results don't mean convertibles are as protective as comparable hardtop cars," Lund points out.
Problems found in frontal tests: The structure of the Pontiac G6's occupant compartment held up well during the frontal test, but there was a problem with the driver seat. It came loose on one of its tracks and moved forward 4 inches on the left side. The dummy's head slid around the left side of the airbag and hit the instrument panel.
"We've rarely seen a dummy's head hit the instrument panel in our frontal test," Lund says. Overall the G6 is rated acceptable for frontal protection.
"Seats shouldn't come loose in crashes, so we can't rate the G6 good," Lund adds. Measures recorded on the dummy's head, neck, and chest indicate low risk of serious injury in these areas of the body, but the poorly controlled movement of the dummy during the impact may have contributed to high forces on its right leg.
The Institute conducted 2 frontal tests of the Mustang. In the first test, the driver door partially opened late in the crash. Even though this didn't significantly affect the driver dummy's movement during the impact, doors shouldn't open because in some crashes this could lead to partial or complete ejection of occupants.
Ford engineers found that the window glass in the down position pushed on the door latch during the crash. Structure was added in the door to prevent the glass from contacting the latch mechanism, and then the engineers asked the Institute to test the Mustang again. In the second test with the change, the door remained closed.
The Mustang is rated acceptable instead of good overall because the structure isn't good, and the dummy's head bottomed out the airbag. The resulting head acceleration was high. The head was struck by the windshield pillar.
Side impact protection is marginal in 3 cars: The Institute's side test represents what happens when the striking vehicle is a pickup or SUV. The BMW 3 series and Audi A4 equipped with standard side airbags and the G6 with side airbags as optional equipment earn the second lowest rating for side impact protection.
"The 3 series and Pontiac G6 are especially disappointing because they're new models," Lund says. "Other auto manufacturers have figured out how to provide good side impact protection for occupants of convertibles."
The G6 is equipped with optional side airbags designed to protect the torsos but not the heads of front-seat occupants. In the side test, the driver dummy's head struck the windowsill. This caused a high head acceleration. In a real-world crash of similar severity, a serious skull fracture and brain injuries would be possible. A taller person's head also might be struck by the hood of an oncoming SUV or pickup.
The 3 series is equipped with standard side airbags designed to protect front-seat occupants' heads as well as their torsos. However, injury measures recorded on the driver dummy indicate the possibility of rib fractures and internal organ injuries in real-world crashes of similar severity.
"None of the 10 convertibles provides side airbag protection for people riding in back seats. We didn't record high injury forces on any of the dummies in the back seats, but in a crash at a different speed or configuration the heads of back-seat passengers would be at risk without side airbags," Lund notes.
Rear crash protection is mostly poor: Significant differences also were apparent among the convertibles in the protection they afford in rear crashes. Only the Volvo and Saab are equipped with seat/head restraint designs that provide good protection against whiplash injury. The other 8 models are rated marginal or poor for rear crash protection.
"It isn't hard or expensive to design a seat to prevent neck injury in a rear-end crash," Lund says. "Some of these manufacturers like Audi, Ford, and Volkswagen already have seat designs elsewhere in their lines of vehicles that are rated good for whiplash prevention, but these automakers haven't put the good seat/head restraints in their convertibles."
How vehicles are evaluated: The Institute's frontal crashworthiness evaluations are based on results of 40 mph frontal offset crash tests. Each vehicle's overall evaluation is based on measurements of intrusion into the occupant compartment, injury measures recorded on a Hybrid III dummy in the driver seat, and analysis of slow-motion film to assess how well the restraint system controlled dummy movement during the test.
Side evaluations are based on performance in a crash test in which the side of a vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph. The barrier represents the front end of a pickup or SUV. Ratings reflect injury measures recorded on 2 instrumented SID-IIs dummies, assessment of head protection countermeasures, and the vehicle's structural performance during the impact. Injury measures obtained from the 2 dummies, one in the driver seat and the other in the back seat behind the driver, are used to determine the likelihood that a driver and/or passenger in a similar real-world crash would sustain serious injury to various parts of the body. The movements and contacts of the dummies' heads during the test also are evaluated. Structural performance is based on measurements indicating the amount of B-pillar intrusion into the occupant compartment.
Rear crash protection is rated according to a 2-step procedure. Starting points for the ratings are measurements of head restraint geometry - the height of a restraint and its horizontal distance behind the back of the head of an average-size man. Seat/head restraints with good or acceptable geometry are tested dynamically using a dummy that measures forces on the neck. This test simulates a collision in which a stationary vehicle is struck in the rear at 20 mph. Seats without good or acceptable geometry are rated poor overall because they cannot be positioned to protect many people.
Volvo was so impressed with last summer's treasure hunt that they're doing it again, but this time around they don't actually bury the XC90 which is up for grabs, but they sank $50,000 worth of gold into the ocean. Finders keepers, but you do need to sign up before hand to get and keep your hands on the loot. Linda Gangeri, advertising manager at Volvo said the following: Aarrrgh matey, there be sunken trrreasure yonder. Round up ya scallywags and set sail. Aaargh. Well not that, but she did say this: "So, yes, we really did sink a treasure chest to the ocean floor filled with gold and the key to a new Volvo. It's sitting there right now just waiting to be found."
Receiving its first update since its debut in 2003 (V50: 2004), Volvo’s revised compact-size model stands out thanks to the new set of bumpers, a redesigned grille and the slimmer tail-lights. While subtle, the changes manage to give the S40 /V50 a fresher exterior look. In the inside new design details include the revised instrument panel and air vents along with new trims and upgraded storage bins.
Mechanic wise, the only differentiation is that the Ford Focus ST based 2.5-liter T5 engine gets a performance hike of 10Hp, rising output to 230 hp. Depending in which country you live the S40 / V50 will also be available with another six petrol engines (1.6 100 hp, 1.8 125 hp, 1.8F 125 hp (Flexifuel), 2.0 145 hp, 2.4 140 hp, 2.4i 170 hp) and three diesel motors (1.6D 109 hp, 2.0D 136 hp, D5 180 hp). Sales are expected to start in Europe and the US this summer.
[Source: CARSCOOP]
Continued- Hi-res image gallery, official press release
2008 Volvo S40
2008 Volvo V50
PRESS RELEASE:
THE NEW VOLVO S40 AND V50 - MORE DYNAMIC LOOKS AND LIBERATED STORAGE SPACE
-Increased differentiation between the S40 and V50 -New S40 front with lower, broader stance -Sportier new grille creates a tougher V50 look -Slimmer tail lamps and new rear bumper -Larger and more practical storage space -New real wood inlay - Nordic Light Oak -Fresh new Spring Green upholstery
A number of distinctive design cues take the new Volvo S40 a visual step closer to the new S-range look as first shown on the all-new Volvo S80. At the same time, the V50 approaches the new V-range and the all-new V70 without compromising on its original compact and sporty attributes.
"When it comes to the exterior, we're aiming for increased differentiation between the two models. The interior refinements have focused on liberating smart storage space," says Volvo Cars Design Director Steve Mattin.
Starting with the new S40, the source of the inspiration can be seen clearly when the compact sedan is viewed from the front.
The new colour-coordinated soft nose creates a broader, lower stance thanks to a new grille with a larger Volvo iron mark, new headlamps and a lower air intake that sweeps across the entire front unlike the current model's three-part design.
"The new, lower and more horizontal appearance radiates smooth power. This impression is reinforced when the car is seen from the side. At the rear, it is the shape of the new tail lamps and the new bumper that further boost the dynamic appearance," says Steve Harper, who has been responsible for the design of the new Volvo S40 and V50.
Sportier V50 grille
The new black egg-crate grille with its larger Volvo iron mark emphasises a sporty language. The new headlamps and the three sculpted lower air intakes are other details that give the new colour-coordinated soft-nose V50 front an increased impression of solidity.
"Here, we've created visual vertical elements in order to further emphasise the new grille," says Steve Harper.
Slimmer tail lamps
The lower part of the tail lamp panel on both the S40 and V50 is 30 millimetres higher than before and the lamps themselves have an entirely new graphic layout. The brake lights are now of LED type and the position marker lamps emphasise the car's shoulders.
The new bumper features integrated reflectors in the lower corners and the lower, broader design language is supplemented with the more horizontal lines of the exhaust tailpipe.
"The improved shape and position of the exhaust tailpipes is a good example of how a little extra visual touch can create a highly potent impression," says Steve Harper.
Freeing up storage space
When refining the interior, the design team transformed itself into something of a liberation movement for storage space.
"The criticism of the current models' limited storage space served as high-octane fuel when the time came to sketch the new interior of the S40 and V50. We weren't entirely satisfied until we felt we had exploited every single available cubic centimetre in an efficient way," relates Steve Harper.
The team concentrated its efforts on two areas: the door sides and the centre stack.
The entire lower part of the front door inside panels was redesigned. The audio system loudspeakers were reshaped to free up space for a new, larger storage compartment with space for an A4 format book, an upright soft drinks can or a water bottle lying down.
As an added bonus, space was also freed up for an extra Dynaudio loudspeaker (only for Premium Sound), which adds even more spice to the audio experience.
Larger and more intelligent centre console
The already iconic super-slim centre console is available in additional decor versions such as the Nordic Light Oak real wood inlay, and the theme now flows smoothly with similar elegant soft curvature surfaces all the way to the rear seat.
The storage space between the seats has also been refined with the help of Scandinavian design tradition's most renowned hallmark - smart functionality.
The handbrake has a more compact design, which in turn has freed space for more generous storage capacity.
Sliding cover and flexible armrest
The sliding cover over the larger storage compartments, in which there are also two holders that provide secure support for large and small cups, is complemented by an improved flexible armrest for the driver. This also has a built-in feature that the design team playfully call the "hamburger table".
"We've even utilised the small spaces that are usually simply covered over when they're not housing controls for options or accessories. Now instead, the space has been converted into a handy compartment, for instance for a mobile phone. After all, the phone is not something we should be using while driving, anyway," explains Steve Harper, and adds:
"And on the back of the console there is another little jewel: a flip-up holder for a 1.5-litre bottle within easy reach of passengers in the rear-seat."
New upholstery and green highlight colour
New design details in the instrument panel and air vents also contribute to the interior refinement in the new S40 and V50.
The upholstery range has been expanded both at base level and for the more exclusive options, for instance with a new, finer grained leather. At base level there is a green ‘accent' colour fabric with the poetic name of Spring Green.
"The green upholstery is entirely in line with the increasing demand for personalised choices by our customers. We started with blue and red upholstery in the new Volvo C30, and now we are introducing green in the new S40 and V50. I'm sure it's going to be very popular," says Steve Harper.
THE NEW VOLVO S40 AND V50 - REFINED SPORTINESS AND INCREASED PREMIUM FEEL
-Closer visual links with the larger Volvo models -Increasing numbers of younger buyers with high premium demands -Improved storage -Enhanced driving pleasure -New safety features -Audio system of world class -One-third of total sales volume
When the current generation of the Volvo S40 and V50 were introduced in 2003, Volvo Cars had its sights firmly set on younger buyers with high demands on sportiness and premium feel.
The new Volvo S40 and new Volvo V50 are making a joint entry onto the market with considerably refined design. A range of new features further sharpens their competitive edge in the hunt for discerning young car buyers.
"When the cars were introduced almost four years ago, we emphasised that they gave buyers the properties of the larger Volvo models but in a more compact format. Now we're taking this approach one step further by increasing the ‘grown-up' quality perception even more. At the same time we are accentuating the differences between the two models. The new S40 moves closer to the Volvo S80 while the new V50 is more like the new Volvo V70," says Volvo Cars President and CEO Fredrik Arp.
Fresh figures from both the US and Europe show that the company's focus on younger target groups has made a significant contribution to sales.
Buyers under 35 years up by more than 20 percent
It's the figures for the USA that are most noteworthy:
-The proportion of S40 buyers under 35 years of age has increased from 23 percent to 45 percent. -The proportion of singles has risen by 10 percent, from 30 to 40 percent. -The overall average age of S40 customers has dropped by ten years from 50 to 40.
"What is more, the reasons for choosing the S40 are much more emotional than before. Today's buyers speak enthusiastically of its sporty design and driving pleasure. We're also increasingly winning the image and prestige match against our toughest competitors," reveals Fredrik Arp.
In Europe, the proportion of V50 buyers whose main alternative was a premium car such as the large German makes is now touching 47 percent - compared with 24 percent for the previous Volvo V40.
The proportion of customers younger than 44 years has risen by ten percent from 45 to 55 percent. And in Europe too, it is the more emotional reasons for purchase that are gaining ground among V50 buyers, more of whom are families with children than in the case of the S40.
Improved storage
Both design and technical refinements in the new Volvo S40 and V50 focused on improving the models' already highly appreciated characteristics and on tackling weaknesses identified by customers, for instance when it comes to interior storage space.
"The design team exploited every available cubic centimetre in an intelligent way. The all-new design of the centre console and the door inside panels, for instance, has increased storage capacity and added even greater flexibility to the interior," explains Fredrik Arp.
Sharper driveline range
The driving characteristics are already among the most renowned strengths of the two models.
One new feature is that the T5 engine gets a performance hike of 10 horsepower, giving an output of 230 hp. There are also five other petrol engine versions available, plus a bio-ethanol Flexifuel variant:
-1.6 100 hp -1.8 125 hp -1.8F 125 hp (Flexifuel) -2.0 145 hp -2.4 140 hp -2.4i 170 hp
Diesel engines, which account for 55 percent of S40 and V50 sales in Europe and 25 percent in total, are available in three versions:
-1.6D 109 hp -2.0D 136 hp -D5 180 hp
One change here is that during the second half of 2007 the D5 engine will also be available with a manual gearbox, offering the driver no less than 400 Nm of torque compared with the automatic transmission's 350 Nm. This engine is one of the first to meet the expected Euro 5 European exhaust emission levels.
The E85-powered (85 percent ethanol, 15 percent petrol) Flexifuel variant producing 125 hp is becoming increasingly competitive. The Volvo S40 and V50 Flexifuel are sold in nine European countries and in 2007 account for 8 percent of these models' total sales.
Now with active headlights
When it comes to safety, the new S40 and V50 come with several new features:
-Optional Active Bi-Xenon headlamps that swivel the light beam in the direction of the road when the driver turns the steering wheel. -The car's hazard warning flashers are automatically activated when the airbags are deployed, a feature that helps attract the attention of other motorists in the event of a single-vehicle accident in the dark, for instance. -The brake lights now have the EBL (Emergency Brake Lights) function, which causes them to flash rapidly when the driver stamps hard on the brake pedal, so as to effectively alert traffic behind the car.
Audio system of world class
The new Volvo S40 and V50 can be specified with an audio system of absolute world class.
The most advanced of the three systems, Premium Sound, has a digital amplifier from Alpine, Dolby® Pro Logic II Surround and loudspeakers from Dynaudio of Denmark.
In the High Performance and Premium Sound systems it is possible to play CD discs with music in MP3 or WMA format. This means that the CD changer can store several hundred music tracks and give the owner access to his or her own private home music library even while on the move.
What is more, all the audio systems now come with an extra socket (AUX) for connection of other equipment such as a portable MP3 player. USB and iPod connectors are available as accessories.
One-third of total Volvo Cars sales
The sales target for the new Volvo S40 is 75,000 cars per year.
The USA is the largest single market with one-third of total sales, while in 2007 China will advance to second place owing to local production of about 8,000 Volvo S40s. The United Kingdom, Spain, Germany and Sweden are the largest S40 markets in Europe.
The target for the new Volvo V50 is 70,000 cars annually. Here 85 percent of sales are in Europe, with Germany, Sweden, Britain,Italy and the Netherlands being the largest individual markets.
"The Volvo S40 and V50 not only account for one-third of our total sales volume in 2007; they also play a vital role in reinforcing the Volvo brand. The new models sharpen their competitiveness in every important area and I am convinced that together with the new C30, they will attract even more new and younger buyers," says Fredrik Arp.
Descriptions and facts in this press material relate to Volvo Cars' international car range. Described features might be optional.Vehicle specifications may vary from one country to another and may be altered without prior notification.
Volvo announced this morning that its upcoming C30 hatchback will be priced from just $22,700 when it goes on sale in the U.S. this October. Keeping in mind that doesn't include a destination charge of $695, the pricing is clearly aggressive for this premium brand and makes the C30 Volvo's least expensive model. The base price will net you what Volvo calls a C30 Version 1.0 that comes standard with the turbocharged T5 five-cylinder producing 227 horsepower, a 160-watt stereo, 17-inch wheels, chrome exhaust tips, power windows and remote locking. Step up to the C30 Version 2.0 and you'll be paying $25,700, but will instead get a 650-watt stereo with 10 speakers and Dolby Pro Logic II surround sound, 18-inch alloy wheels, a bigger roof spoiler and the handsome sport body kit . You'll also be able to "special order" a C30 with your choice of 17 exterior and 12 interior colors, as well as 30 more accessory options.
[Source: Autoblog]
Continued- Article, official press release Both cars, by the way, come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. Ordering up an automatic will add $1,250. Other accessories include a navigation system for $2,120 (comes standard on Version 2.0) and Bi-Xenon gas discharge headlights for $700. Choosing any "special order" item will ding you with a one-time $300 charge, unfortunately. While the new C30 is clearly priced aggressively, the long list of optional "special order" items means that your cost out the door will rise rather quickly.
PRESS RELEASE:
Volvo Announces Pricing of the New C30
New York (April 4, 2007) - Anticipation is growing as Volvo Cars of North America, LLC (VCNA) today announced pricing of the exciting new Volvo C30. With a starting price of just $22,700* for the well-equipped C30 Version 1.0 and $25,700* for the C30 Version 2.0, buyers will have plenty of opportunities to exercise their Free Will when the car goes on sale this October.
With a promise to deliver a truly exhilarating driving experience, both versions of the C30 are powered by a turbocharged T5 5-cylinder engine that produces 227 horsepower. Driving enthusiasts will appreciate that the new C30 is 8.5 inches shorter and weighs around 320 pounds less than the Volvo S40 sport sedan. But while the C30 may be shorter, there is still plenty of room for four adults and all their stuff.
"The C30 has all of the features a customer shopping in this segment is looking for," noted Anne Belec, President and CEO of VCNA. "It's loaded with good looks, performance, big wheels, and a stellar audio system. Better yet, it's got 80 years of Volvo's safety heritage behind it."
The C30 Version 1.0 will feature a 160-watt MP3-ready stereo (with auxiliary jack for your MP3 player), leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, 17-inch wheels, chrome exhaust tips, power windows and remote locking. The C30 Version 2.0 adds a 650-watt stereo system with 10 speakers by Dynaudio, Dolby Pro Logic II surround sound, 18-inch alloy wheels, a larger roof spoiler and a sport body kit that includes side skirts and front and rear fascia valances.
Aptly dubbed "A Product of Free Will," the Volvo C30 will feature Volvo's most extensive list of exterior and interior colors, single options and a multitude of special-order and dealer-installed accessories. The Custom Build special orders open up 17 exterior colors and 12 interior color combinations. With so many choices, it will be hard to find any two C30s that are exactly alike, especially when the laundry list of over 30 individual options is considered.
"We think this comprehensive list of options, coupled with a list of accessory items never before offered by Volvo, is just what this customer will be looking for," noted C30 Product Manager Art Battaglia. "On the list you'll find items not even available for some cars that might be cross-shopped against C30. A special order car is just that, special."
While style and performance are important to the C30 buyer, safety remains at the cornerstone of Volvo's brand values. The new C30 features Volvo's patented front structure. Divided into zones, the frontal structure incorporates different deformation properties with the outer zones accounting for most of the deformation in a frontal collision. The more the collision forces approach the passenger compartment, the less the material is deformed. To ensure that each zone has the right characteristics, the quality of the steel has been varied. Four different types of steel are used. Apart from normal body steel, three different grades of high-strength steel are used: High Strength Steel, Extra High Strength Steel and Ultra High Strength Steel. Different steel grades also are used in the rear to help protect occupants in the event of a rear-end collision.
VCNA, part of Volvo Car Corporation in Gothenburg, Sweden, provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States, and oversees Volvo operations in Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.
Volvo has been building cars with Safety in mind for 80 years. The 2007 Volvo Cars model lineup includes the award-winning S40 and its wagon counterpart the V50; the award-winning XC90; the sporty S60 sedan - including the award-winning performance sedan - S60 R and the performance wagon version - V70 R; the all-new flagship S80 luxury sedan; versatile V70 wagon and rugged XC70 (Cross Country); and, the new C70 convertible with the retractable hard top.
*Prices do not include destination charges of $695
Model Year 2008 - VOLVO C30 Price List
C30 T5 M Version 1.0 $22,700
C30 T5 M Version 2.0 $25,700
Destination Charge: $695
VOLVO reserves the right to amend any pricing at any time upon the written notification, and the Retailer agrees that it will make no claim for anticipated benefits or lost opportunity under amended pricing.
- Sirius Satellite Radio (includes 6 month subscription) $295
- Automatic Transmission w/ Geartronic $1,250
1 If Both Climate Pkg. And Bi-Xenon Gas Discharge Headlamps (Special Order Option) Are Ordered Together, Climate Pkg. Drops The Headlamp Washers And The Total Price For Both The Climate Pkg. And The Bi-Xenon Headlamps Is Reduced To Net $956/MSRP $1,112 excluding Custom Build charge.
VOLVO reserves the right to amend any pricing at any time upon the written notification, and the Retailer agrees that it will make no claim for anticipated benefits or lost opportunity under amended pricing.
Model Year 2008 - VOLVO C30 Factory Options
C30 T5 Version 2.0
Version 2.0 Car Adds: - 18" Atreus Alloy Wheels - Sport Ground Effects Package (Front/Rear Spoilers and Side Skirts) - Dynamic Chassis - Rear Roof Spoiler - Aluminum Dash Inlays - Polished Sport End Pipes (3½" in diamter) - Dynaudio, 650 watt, 10-Speaker System - Dolby ProLogic II Surround Sound - Sirius Satellite Radio (Includes 6-month Subscription)
Suggested Retail Price
Climate Package1
- Heated Front Seats (000011) $450
- Headlamp Washers (000065) $400
- Rainsensor (000370) $175
Total Package Value $1,025
Savings -$350
Special Value Price $675
Stand Alone Options
- Metallic Paint $475
- Premium Electric Silver Metallic Paint $625
- Leather Seating Surfaces $1,200
- Automatic Transmission w/ Geartronic $1,250
- Power Glass Moonroof $1,200
- 17" Alloy Wheel ZAURAK Silver Bright with Michelin all-season tire No Charge
- VOLVO Navigational System with DVD Map Data $2,120
1 If Both Climate Pkg. And Bi-Xenon Gas Discharge Headlamps (Special Order Option) Are Ordered Together, Climate Pkg. Drops The Headlamp Washers And The Total Price For Both The Climate Pkg. And The Bi-Xenon Headlamps Is Reduced To Net $956/MSRP $1,112 excluding Custom Build charge.
VOLVO reserves the right to amend any pricing at any time upon the written notification, and the Retailer agrees that it will make no claim for anticipated benefits or lost opportunity under amended pricing.
Model Year 2008 - VOLVO C30 Factory Options
C30 T5 Special Order Options
- Custom Build* $300
- Bi-Xenon Gas Discharge Headlamps (Includes Headlamp Washers 000065)1 $700
- Park Assist, Rear Yes $400
- Dynaudio (Version 1.0 only, Standard on Version 2.0 Car) $800
- 6-CD, In-Dash Player Yes $475
- Fog Lights In Front Spoiler Yes $295
- Cruise Control Yes $185
- Trip Computer $100
- Power Driver's Seat (already included when ordering op code 000009) $450
- Soft Load Cover $80
- Hard Load Cover $180
- Heated Front Seats $450
- Rainsensor $175
- Headlamp Washers $400
- Load Protection Net $145
- P. Driver/Pass Seat $900
- Tailgate Spoiler (Version 1.0 only, Standard on Version 2.0 Car) $200
- Keyless Drive $450
- Interior Air Quality System (IAQS) $200
- Navigation (Version 1.0 only, Standard on Version 2.0 Car) $2,120
- Ash Tray and Cigarette Lighter $25
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) $695
- Dynamic Chassis (Version 1.0 only, Standard on Version 2.0 Car) $275
- Aluminum Inlays (Version 1.0 only, Standard on Version 2.0 Car) $150
- Sport Steering Wheel with Aluminum Inlay $150
- Sport Gearshift Knob with Aluminum Inlay $100
- Leather Handbrake $25
- Rear Armrest $40
- Power Retractable Rearview Mirrors with puddle lights $250
16" Alloy Wheel CALIGO 205/55 R16 $25
17" Alloy Wheel ZAURAK Silver Bright 205/50 R17 (Version 1.0 only, "Regular" option on Version 2.0 Car) $300
17" Alloy Wheel SCOTIA 205/50 R17 (Pricing for Version 1.0 only) $300
17" Alloy Wheel SCOTIA 205/50 R17 (Pricing for Version 2.0 only) $25
17" Alloy Wheel ZAURAK Chrome 205/50 R17 (Pricing for Version 1.0 only) $995
17" Alloy Wheel ZAURAK Chrome 205/50 R17 (Pricing for Version 2.0 only) $25
17" Alloy Wheel MESTRA 205/50 R17 (Version 2.0 only, Standard on Version 1.0 Car) $25
- Special Order Solid Paint $25
- Special Order Metallic $475
- Special Order Premium Paint $625
- Special Order Kalix Upholstery $100
- Special Order Leather Upholstery $1,200
* There is a one-time charge applied to any vehicle which includes any special order feature. This one-time charge is applied whether the car includes one special order feature or several.
1 If Both Climate Pkg. And Bi-Xenon Gas Discharge Headlamps (Special Order Option) Are Ordered Together, Climate Pkg. Drops The Headlamp Washers And The Total Price For Both The Climate Pkg. And The Bi-Xenon Headlamps Is Reduced To Net $956/MSRP $1,112 excluding Custom Build charge.
VOLVO reserves the right to amend any pricing at any time upon the written notification, and the Retailer agrees that it will make no claim for anticipated benefits or lost opportunity under amended pricing.
Volvo is busy preparing its entry to the mid-size sedan market in the shape of the S60, which will feature radical new styling under the direction of design chief Steve Mattin. Having already developed the XC60 concept, Mattin’s next job is to give the S60 a bold new face that will compete with the German triumvirate.
Our friends at Auto Motor & Sport Sweden managed to score a peek at design sketches for the new S60 the day before the Geneva Auto Show and their journalist relayed the impressions to a 3D artist, who created these images.
[Source: Motor Authority]
Continued- Article, one more rendering Due to a lack of funds Ford decided to halt production of the S60 for 6 months, but AMS reports that things are back in full swing for a 2009/2010 release date. According to their discussion with Mattin, Volvo wants to make the S60 more unique and an interesting alternative to the usual suspects. The goal is to hit 600,000 cars sold per year in 2010, up from the 450,000 mark at the moment.
The press days for the 2007 Geneva Motor Show don't start until tomorrow technically, but Volvo doesn't care. This afternoon it released all the info and images it has on the new 2008 XC70 soft-roader. Hot on the heels of its on-road only brethren, the V70, this new XC70 features an updated appearance that's pleasing to the eye, yet retains the rugged matte black lower cladding, subtle fender flares and increased ride height of its predecessor. The rugged wagon will come with either the automaker's new 3.2L inline six-cylinder gas engine developing 238 hp and 236 ft-lbs. of torque or a five-cylinder diesel making 185 hp and 295 ft-lbs. of torque.
Being a Volvo, the new XC70 has an incredible number of safety features including a world's first new child safety seat with a height adjustable cushion, a Collision Warning with Brake Support system, Adaptive Cruise Control, a Blind Spot Information System, Intelligent Driver Information System, swivelling Bi-Xenon headlights, and much, more more. We're particularly interested in the optional Four-C active chassis that can vary car's dampers based on its speed and surrounding conditions. The driver can also choose Comfort, Sport or Advanced modes to manually modulate the damping. We're curious to know, however, whether the system is infinitely variable like the electromagnetic suspension on the Corvette and other high-end sports cars. Of course, all XC70s have all-wheel drive standard with Dynamic Stability and Traction Control.
It appears that the 2008 Volvo XC70 will definitely have the content to impress most consumers interested in a useful hauler that handles better than an SUV, and as with all new Volvos, the styling keeps improving with each new generation.
[Source: Autoblog via Volvo]
Follow the jump for the official press release and high-res pictures.
PRESS RELEASE:
All-new XC70 generation with sportier attitude and greater capability
*Improved child safety with a world innovation *Advanced drive systems contribute to increased safety margins *Six-cylinder engine for the first time in the Volvo XC70 *All Wheel Drive and advanced drive systems *First-class comfort and versatile function *World class audio system
The all-new Volvo XC70 is the third generation of Volvo's capable cross-country model.
Just like the all-new V70 model, it offers everything that implies of luxury and a spacious interior, sporty driving properties and high comfort. In addition, the all-nefw Volvo XC70 has a number of smart solutions for increased flexibility and practical function.
Safety is naturally at the highest level and the car also includes Volvo's world breakthrough: integrated child booster cushions with a choice of two seating heights.
"The all-new Volvo XC70 has been developed for people who want to live out their dreams," says Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Brand, Business and Product Strategy at Volvo Cars. "It has the right attitude, capacity and equipment for enjoyable trips to and from your adventures. And just like the all-new V70 model, it clearly marks Volvo's increasingly strong position in the premium segment. It is therefore logical that the all-new Volvo XC70 should inherit much of the same character and properties. We recognize the design, the comfort and the high safety level. The fact that the all-new Volvo XC70 is now even more versatile and capable than its predecessor is a direct response to our customers' expressed wishes and needs."
1. Improved child safety with a world innovation
*Improved child safety with extended IC (Inflatable Curtain) and integrated booster cushions - a world breakthrough *New, stronger side structure *Crumple zones made from different grades of steel *Lower cross-member contributes to enhanced compatibility *Compact transverse engines contribute to collision safety *Second-generation WHIPS system *Protection for other road users *Other protective safety solutions
"When we developed the all-new Volvo XC70 the goal, as for the all-new Volvo V70, was that it should be the safest car in its segment," says Ingrid Skogsmo, Director Volvo Cars Safety Centre. "The XC70 model shares the same sophisticated network of interacting safety systems as the Volvo S80.The patented body structure absorbs energy in a highly efficient way. And the interior safety system includes the latest generation of side airbags and whiplash protection. What is more, we are introducing a world innovation in the field of child safety."
Improved child safety with extended IC (Inflatable Curtain) and integrated booster cushions - a world breakthrough To improve safety for children in the rear seat of the all-new XC70 model, Volvo has further developed the Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) with a stronger body structure, extended inflatable curtains and a height-adjustable integrated child booster cushion - the latter a world innovation.
The booster cushion, which is integrated in the rear seat, can be set at two heights, allowing children of different sizes to sit sufficiently high to see out through the windows yet at the same time get the most effective protection possible. The lower setting is intended for children between 115 and 140 cm in height and weighing between 22 and 36 kg, while the upper setting is designed for children measuring 95-120 cm and weighing between 15 and 25 kg. The all-new Volvo XC70 can be equipped with integrated child booster cushions in both outer rear seats. The adjustable booster cushion means the seat belt geometry is optimum irrespective of the child's height. The integrated booster cushion is also accompanied by safety belts with specially adjusted force limiters. They contribute to the best possible protective effect by restraining the child with just the right amount of tensioning force in a collision.
The inflatable curtains in the all-new Volvo XC70 have been extended by 60 mm, which in combination with the height-adjustable booster cushions and the strong body side structure provide more children of different sizes with effective protection in a side impact.
Furthermore, the fact that more children are provided with comfortable seating on booster cushions helps create a more harmonious atmosphere in the car and provides better conditions for relaxed driving.
The front passenger airbag can be disabled using a key. What is more, the seat can be specified with attachments for rear-facing fitting of a child seat once the front passenger airbag is disabled.
New, stronger side structure To optimise side-impact protection in the all-new XC70 model, not only for children but for all occupants, the body's entire side structure is both stronger and lighter thanks to a well-balanced combination of high-tensile steel of different grades (High Strength Steel, Extra High Strength Steel and the extremely strong Ultra High Strength Steel). The various components and grades of steel interact to minimise penetration into the passenger compartment. The aim is instead to get the entire car to move sideways - away from the colliding vehicle.
The new type of side-impact airbag which was launched together with the all-new S80 model makes Volvo's patented SIPS (Side Impact Protection System) into an even more effective safety system. The new side impact airbags have two separate chambers - one for the hip section and one for the chest. Since the hips can withstand greater force than the chest can, the lower chamber inflates with up to five times more pressure than the upper section. The side-impact airbags interact with the inflatable curtains and the body's network of safety beams to provide the most effective protection.
Crumple zones made using different grades of steel The patented front body structure in the all-new Volvo XC70 is divided into zones, each of which has a different task during the deformation sequence. The outer zones are responsible for most of the deformation. The closer the collision forces get to the passenger compartment, the less the material deforms.
In order to give each zone the right properties, different grades of steel are used in different structures, a total of four different grades. Apart from regular body steel, three different grades of high-tensile steel are used: High Strength Steel, Extra High Strength Steel and Ultra High Strength Steel.
"With the zone system, we can exploit the material's properties to the very maximum for the best possible energy absorption," explains Ingrid Skogsmo. "The aim is that the passenger compartment should be preserved in a predictable way in a variety of collision scenarios."
ZONE FOR DEFORMATION AT LOW SPEEDS The front bumper is structured around a cross-member made of aluminium. The attachment points at the body's longitudinal beams are designed as collapsible "crash boxes". They help absorb incoming low-speed collision forces without damaging the rest of the body's beam structure.
ZONE FOR DEFORMATION AT HIGH SPEEDS The straight sections of the longitudinal beams are made of High Strength Steel, a very tough grade of steel that is optimised for high energy absorption. This zone accounts for most of the deformation.
ZONE FOR BACKUP The beam section that curves out towards the A-posts serves as a barrier protecting the passenger compartment and also as a backup to reduce deformation. Its shape also helps minimise the risk of the front wheel penetrating into the passenger compartment. Instead, the wheel helps absorb the collision forces. This section is very rigid and is made of Extra High Strength Steel.
THREE-POINT ATTACHMENT A rigid cross-member links the two A-posts and the lower side-members so that they form a particularly sturdy three-point attachment on each side. This design is particularly effective at protecting the passenger compartment in a severe impact.
Lower cross-member contributes to enhanced compatibility With its high ground clearance, the all-new Volvo XC70 comes with relatively high-positioned bumpers, which may create a greater risk of damage to an oncoming passenger car with lower positioned bumpers. To reduce the risk of injury in a collision, the front suspension subframe in the Volvo XC70 is supplemented with a lower cross-member, positioned at the height of the bumper in a conventional car. This lower beam is integrated into the XC70's structure and is neatly concealed behind the spoiler. In a collision the lower cross-member is aimed to strike the oncoming car's protective structure, activating its crumple zone as intended so the occupants can be given the maximum level of protection.
Compact transverse engines contribute to collision safety Like its larger stablemate in the XC range, the Volvo XC90, the all-new Volvo XC70 has a transverse driveline and four-wheel drive. Transverse installation gives the engine more space inside the engine compartment and helps reduce the risk of penetration into the passenger compartment in a frontal impact.
Even the six-cylinder engine has been able to be installed transversely in the all-new XC70 model thanks to its extremely compact format and efficient packaging in the engine compartment.
Second-generation WHIPS system Volvo's system for avoiding neck injuries - WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) - is one of the most effective on the market. In the event of a rear-end collision the front seat backrest accompanies the passenger's initial body movement and dampens the incoming force rather like one's hand does when catching a ball.
The all-new Volvo XC70 features the same generation of WHIPS mechanism as was launched on the all-new S80 model. This generation was further developed to ensure that the damping motion is gentle and to provide good contact between the head and head restraint throughout the impact sequence.
Protection for other road users Protection for pedestrians and cyclists has also been further developed in the all-new Volvo XC70. The front has been given energy-absorbing properties, not least with a generously dimensioned soft structure in front of the bumper that helps reduce the risk of leg injuries. In addition, the spoiler's lower edge has been reinforced and moved forward, almost on a level with the bumper. The aim is that the area of contact on a pedestrian's or cyclist's leg should be distributed across a larger area, thus helping reduce the risk of injury still further.
The bonnet is raised and its underside has a honeycomb structure which similarly spreads the load in the event of an impact, thus helping to absorb the energy and reduce the risk of personal injury.
Other protective safety solutions
*Collapsing steering column which upon deformation moves horizontally for the best possible interaction with the airbag *Pedals with a function that limits the risk of penetration into the passenger compartment *Airbags with two-stage function *Seat belt pre-tensioners for all five seats *Seat belt reminders for all five seats *Force limiters for the front seat belts *Reinforced, transversely fitted tubular beam between the A-posts *Strong SIPS tubes in the seats and a sturdy magnesium bracket in the middle of the car *Diagonally fitted beams of Ultra High Strength Steel in the doors
2. Advanced drive systems contribute to increased safety margins
*Collision warning with brake support and emergency brake lights *Adaptive cruise control *Advanced information systems contribute to better driver control *Active Bi-Xenon Lights - swivelling headlamp beams *Advanced, interacting braking functions *Personal Car Communicator with heartbeat sensor provides enhanced security *Laminated glass all round and automatically locked storage unit in the luggage compartment
"The best way to protect the car's occupants is to avoid accidents," says Ingrid Skogsmo. "That's why we've developed a number of advanced driving and support systems that interact intelligently to assist the driver in difficult situations, yet without taking over the driving itself or taking over responsibility for safe progress. The task is to assist the driver to take the right decisions, by alerting him or her and in various ways indicating how best to get out of the situation."
Collision warning with brake support and emergency brake lights Rear-end collisions are a common type of accident. In many of these cases, the reason is that the driver is distracted and fails to respond in time.
Against this background, Volvo Cars has developed a system known as Collision Warning with Brake Support. It is an advanced system with auxiliary functions that aim to avoid rear-end impacts or to minimise their consequences should they nevertheless occur.
The area in front of the car is continuously monitored with the help of a radar sensor. The system is activated in a variety of ways at different stages of the sequence: If the car approaches another vehicle from the rear and the driver does not react, a red warning lamp flashes in the windscreen. At the same time, a warning buzzer sounds. In certain situations this is enough for the driver to respond and take action to avoid the danger.
If the risk of a collision increases despite the warning, the brake support system is activated. In order to shorten the reaction time, the brakes are prepared for action by automatic application of the pads against the discs. In addition, brake pressure is amplified hydraulically, which results in good braking effect even if the driver does not press particularly hard on the brake pedal.
"If the road speed is not too high, brake support helps reduce the consequences of a collision," says Ingrid Skogsmo. "However, it is always the driver's reactions that are crucial to the outcome."
The application of firm braking is signalled to traffic behind the car by the brake lights first flashing (valid for Europe - fixed light for US markets). Once speed drops to below 30 km/h, the hazard warning flashers are also activated.
In order to adapt the warning system to different conditions and individual driving styles, the system's sensitivity can be adjusted in the car's setup menu. There is a choice of three settings.
Adaptive cruise control In order to help the driver stay a safe distance behind the vehicle in front, Volvo Cars has developed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). This system should primarily be regarded as a comfort function but it does also contribute to more controlled progress if the rhythm of traffic is uneven. The technology is also used as a basis for several of Volvo's advanced driving and support systems.
Using a radar sensor, the adaptive cruise control continually monitors the gap to the vehicles in front and automatically adjusts the car's speed to ensure that this gap does not shrink too much.
The driver activates the cruise control by setting a desired speed between 30 and 200 km/h and then selecting the minimum time gap to the vehicles in front. There are five different time gaps to choose between.
Advanced information systems contribute to better driver control The all-new Volvo XC70 is also equipped with BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) and IDIS (Intelligent Driver Information System), two systems that can help the driver maintain better control over the driving situation. Using cameras integrated into the door mirrors, BLIS registers whether another vehicle is in the blind spot offset to the rear of the car. If there is a vehicle there, a lamp lights up at the relevant mirror to alert the driver and increase his or her chance of making the appropriate decision.
IDIS is an electronic information system that helps prevent the driver from becoming distracted by irrelevant information in busy situations. By continuously monitoring certain functions in the car such as steering wheel movements, the movement of the accelerator pedal, turn indicator usage and brake application, IDIS can assess the complexity of the current situation. The information is processed and at a certain level of complexity, any information that is not essential to safety is delayed, for instance incoming phone calls or SMS text messages.
Active Bi-Xenon Lights - swivelling headlamp beams In order to contribute to the best possible visibility during night-time driving on curving and twisting roads, the all-new Volvo XC70 can be equipped with Active Bi-Xenon Lights - swivelling headlamps that follow the sweeps and bends of the road. A mini-processor is used to calculate and analyse a number of parameters and optimise the light beam to suit the situation. The headlamps can be swivelled up to 15 degrees in either direction, totalling 30 degrees, and can thus light up a longer stretch of road as it twists and turns. In order to save wear and tear on the system, it is automatically deactivated in daylight conditions.
In order to lower the risk of dazzling oncoming traffic, the headlamps' height is adjusted depending on how heavily the car is loaded and also on whether the car is accelerating or braking.
The headlamps are cleaned using an electromagnetic high-pressure system that washes one headlamp at a time so as to always provide the best possible illumination under all conditions.
Advanced, interacting braking functions The all-new Volvo XC70 has a highly advanced braking system with a number of functions that interact to ensure the shortest possible braking distance under all circumstances.
HYDRAULIC BRAKE ASSIST (HBA) is a new generation of Volvo's emergency braking support system. It helps the driver to brake in the shortest possible distance in a panic situation. Unlike the previous system which was only based on vacuum, here brake pressure is also reinforced hydraulically. In an emergency situation where the driver does not press the brake pedal sufficiently quickly and firmly, HBA can help ensure that the ABS system is utilised optimally and the braking distance is reduced.
OPTIMIZED HYDRAULIC BRAKES (OHB) reinforce braking ability under hard braking by utilising hydraulics to compensate for low vacuum pressure in the brake servo.
READY ALERT BRAKES (RAB) can predict rapid braking and apply the brake pads against the discs even before the driver has time to press the brake pedal. The braking system's response time - and the braking distance - can thus be shortened. The triggering signal for the braking system may be that the accelerator pedal is released suddenly or that the adaptive cruise control registers an obstacle in front of the car.
FADING BRAKE SUPPORT (FBS) utilises the hydraulics to gradually build up braking pressure during long hard braking, thus helping cut the risk of brake fade and maintaining pedal feel.
Personal Car Communicator with heartbeat sensor provides enhanced security In an increasingly insecure world, it is important to have control over what happens in one's immediate vicinity, not least when you park your car. This is a matter both of preventing theft of and from the car and also of avoiding situations that may involve personal risks.
Together with the all-new S80 model, Volvo Cars launched the Personal Car Communicator (PCC), an advanced pocket-sized control centre which is now also available on the all-new Volvo XC70. The Personal Car Communicator provides information which in some circumstances may be crucial to the car owner's security and safety.
The Personal Car Communicator is remarkably like a regular remote control but it can do a lot more than just activate the locks and alarm. A simple push of a button can within a few seconds tell the car owner if ... ... the car is locked or unlocked ... ... if the alarm has been triggered ... ... if the alarm has been triggered and someone is inside the car, which can be registered by a highly sensitive heartbeat sensor and an advanced calculation process.
The information is available and up-to-date as long as the distance between the PCC and the car is about 100 metres or less. In addition, the most recent data is logged so the owner can at any time and any place check whether the car really was locked when it was parked.
Laminated glass all round and automatically locked storage unit in the luggage compartment In order to make break-ins more difficult, the all-new Volvo XC70 can be specified with laminated glass in all the windows, including the rear side windows and the tailgate. This means that the luggage compartment too gets effective protection.
The rear storage system under the luggage compartment floor has a capacity of no less than 46 litres if the car does not have a spare wheel, and it is now lockable. It is locked automatically and conveniently when the tailgate is closed and locked.
3. Six-cylinder engine for the first time in the Volvo XC70
*Six-cylinder normally aspirated engine with dual cam profiles *Extremely compact design *Energy-efficient turbodiesel from second-generation D5 range *Petrol and diesel engines at the launch of the all-new Volvo XC70
Six-speed Geartronic "We can now for the first time ever offer a six-cylinder engine in the Volvo XC70," says Tomas Ahlborg, Project Director for the all-new XC70. "It is the extremely compact transverse in-line unit made of aluminium that was launched in conjunction with the all-new Volvo S80. With six cylinders and a displacement of 3.2 litres, the XC70 gets the power and driveability that a true adventurer needs. With this new powerplant, we can give discerning customers an entirely new and longed-for driving experience."
Six-cylinder normally aspirated engine with dual cam profiles The six-cylinder normally aspirated engine producing 175 kW (238 hp) and 320 Nm offers a high-class driving experience. The engine has an advanced valve mechanism featuring dual cam profiles on the inlet side. With CPS (Cam Profile Switching), as the system is known, the inlet valves can be raised to two different heights depending on engine revs and load.
In normal driving, with normal throttle activation and low engine revs, fuel consumption is minimised at the same time as there is sufficient torque for good driveability.
In sportier driving, under full acceleration and high revs, the engine is immensely alert to the throttle and powerful at both low and high speeds.
"In principle two engines in one," explains Thomas Ahlborg "satisfying both performance-orientated customers and those who prioritise driving comfort and fuel economy."
In addition, the engine features VIS (Variable Intake System). It consists of two throttle valves that adjust the volume of the inlet manifold to suit the current driving conditions and allow the engine's capacity to be exploited to the very maximum throughout the rev range.
Extremely compact design As in the other Volvo models, the engines in the all-new Volvo XC70 are installed transversely, even the six-cylinder unit. This has been made possible owing to an extremely compact construction.
"A transversely mounted compact engine is the best way to reduce the risk of penetration into the passenger compartment in the event of a frontal collision, since the engine takes up minimal space in the car's longitudinal direction," explains Tomas Ahlborg.
The six-cylinder in-line engine's compact format has been achieved by positioning ancillaries such as the power steering pump and air conditioning compressor behind the engine in the space above the gearbox. There is therefore no drive system for these ancillaries in front of the engine. Instead, drive is provided via gears on the rear of the crankshaft. This solution is called READ - Rear End Ancillary Drive. The alternator is direct-driven and is fitted onto the engine block. These solutions mean the entire package including the engine and gearbox take up the least possible space, above all in the car's longitudinal direction.
By designing the drive system in the form of a small "gearbox" with an intermediary shaft inside the driveshaft - a solution known as Shaft In Shaft - the whole package has been able to be made very short. The two shafts are driven by different gears that give them different speeds (one speed for camshaft drive and one for powering the ancillaries).
Even the vibration damper, which compensates for vibrations in the six-cylinder engine's relatively long crankshaft, has been integrated inside the engine block.
Energy-efficient turbodiesel As an alternative to the six-cylinder normally aspirated engine, the all-new Volvo XC70 can be specified with Volvo's in-house manufactured second-generation D5 five-cylinder diesel engine. It is a very powerful and easy to drive turbodiesel which is available in two versions. The more powerful variant offers no less than 400 Nm of torque - and it does so across a particularly wide rev range.
Compared with the first generation, the new D5 engine has been further developed and comprehensively refined, featuring a new electronically controlled turbocharger, more advanced multi-point injection technology and a particularly powerful engine management system. The improvements have resulted in an entirely new driving experience with far higher performance and improved driveability. At the same time, emissions are noticeably lower.
A service-free particle filter is standard, making the D5 a highly eco-efficient alternative. Both the engines feature four valves per cylinder and double overhead camshafts, promoting alert response and good high-speed properties.
Petrol and diesel engines at the launch of the all-new Volvo XC70 Engine Configuration Output kW/hp Torque Nm 3.2 I6 petrol I6 175/238 320 D5 diesel I5 136/185 400
Six-speed Geartronic The two engines in the all-new Volvo XC70 are mated to a six-speed gearbox, manual or automatic with Geartronic. They are designed to handle the huge power of these engines. With Geartronic it is also possible to change gear manually.
4. All Wheel Drive and advanced drive systems
*Advanced body structure and stable chassis promote controlled ride and roadholding properties *Active chassis with Four-C - and three choices *All Wheel Drive with Instant Traction *Hill Descent Control regulates speed on steep downhill gradients *Adjustable power steering *Power Parking Brake is standard
DSTC is standard "The all-new Volvo XC70 has been further developed in every respect," says Tomas Ahlborg. "The chassis technology offers high-class driving feel and superb control whatever the situation. With the intelligent All Wheel Drive system and raised ground clearance, we furthermore add in those characteristic XC properties of excellent get-you-there ability and formidable capability. What is more, we are launching Hill Descent Control, which makes it easier to master crawling in low gear on steep downhill gradients."
Advanced body structure and stable chassis promote controlled ride and roadholding properties Not only the driveline but the whole of the car has been developed and balanced to give a first-class driving experience, based largely on pliant ride and secure roadholding allied to high stability. Stability is in fact particularly important when driving with a heavy load and on poor surfaces.
The body features a highly advanced structure that contributes to both good deformation properties in the event of a collision and high torsional rigidity. Thanks to the design of the body structure and the optimised use of different grades of high-strength steel, the torsional rigidity has been increased by no less than 15 percent compared to the previous XC70 model. Good torsional rigidity is the very basis of the car's excellent ride and roadholding properties.
The chassis technology has been further developed compared with the previous XC70 model to provide even more stable and more controlled road manners. A lot of effort has also gone into features such as the suspension system and engine installation to ensure high-class comfort.
In order to provide the necessary get-you-there ability on difficult surfaces, the XC70 has raised ground clearance. It rides 209 millimetres high.
Active chassis with Four-C - and three choices The all-new Volvo XC70 can be optionally specified with an active chassis based on Volvo's Four-C technology. It is an advanced self-regulating chassis system that uses a number of sensors to continuously monitor the car's behaviour. The dampers are adjusted to suit the current driving conditions in mere fractions of a second. Four-C adjusts chassis settings to match the car's speed. The higher the speed, the firmer the damping. This makes the car easy to control even at high speeds. This technology also reduces the car's tendency to squat, dip or yaw under hard acceleration, firm braking and quick steering wheel movements.
"With an active chassis, the car's driving properties improve in all situations," says Tomas Ahlborg. "It becomes both safer and more entertaining to drive."
Three alternative chassis settings at the touch of a button allow the driver to alter the car's driving character to suit his or her personal taste.
*COMFORT provides pleasant, comfortable progress with calm, harmonious body movements. *SPORT provides more controlled body movements, faster steering response and a higher degree of road contact. *ADVANCED gives minimum damper movement and maximum contact between tyres and road surface. It's the setting for enthusiastic driving on smooth and flat asphalt.
In a difficult-to-control situation, however, the driver's choice makes no difference at all: Four-C always responds by helping the driver out of the situation by automatically stabilising the car to maintain control.
All Wheel Drive with Instant Traction The all-new Volvo XC70 is equipped with Volvo's All Wheel Drive. Using an electronically controlled hydraulic clutch, the AWD system distributes drive between the front and rear wheels to ensure the best possible road grip in all situations. The system features Instant Traction, which shifts drive at lightning speed from the front to the rear wheels when starting on a slippery or loose surface.
Hill Descent Control regulates speed on steep downhill gradients "Some off-road cars have an extra low gear for crawling, but we have chosen a more sophisticated solution that better suits our XC concept," says Tomas Ahlborg. "It's called Hill Descent Control (HDC) and makes it easier to crawl in bottom gear on steep downhill slopes."
Using the car's brakes and engine torque, HDC controls the car's speed and keeps it steady at about 10 km/h. This function is activated via a button in the instrument panel. The driver can easily take command over HDC by pressing the accelerator or brake pedal. Changing gear automatically disengages HDC. All changes take place smoothly and gently.
Thanks to the smooth response when the accelerator is pressed, Hill Descent Control also contributes to comfortable starts when towing a caravan. On a slippery surface, which is sometimes the case in camping grounds, this is extra beneficial.
Hill Descent Control also operates when reversing so it can be of considerable help at the slipway when launching a boat into the water. The system operates with both manual and automatic gearboxes.
Adjustable power steering Speed-dependent power steering is available as an option. The system delivers more servo assistance at low speeds, for instance to make things easier when crawling slowly on difficult surfaces. Servo assistance is reduced as speed rises, disappearing entirely at higher cruising speeds.
In order to give every driver the most optimum road feedback, servo effect can be adjusted via the car's information and set-up system. Three levels of servo assistance are available.
Power Parking Brake is standard In order to assist the driver when starting on an uphill gradient, the all-new Volvo XC70 has a smart, electrically operated parking brake system known as Power Parking Brake. This makes things far easier for the driver, especially if the car is fitted with a manual gearbox. If the parking brake is engaged at traffic lights, for instance, it is automatically disengaged when the accelerator is pressed and the car moves off. Please note that the driver's safety belt must be secured for this function to operate.
The parking brake is engaged by pushing a lever to the left of the steering wheel and disengaged by pulling the lever.
To ensure that the parking brake is applied when the car is parked, it is automatically engaged when the key is removed from the ignition switch or, if the car is equipped with Keyless Drive, when the door is opened. This function must be selected initially in the car settings menu.
DSTC is standard DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control) is standard in the all-new Volvo XC70. This is a stability-enhancing system that when necessary reduces engine torque and applies carefully calculated braking power to reduce the risk of a skid.
"By combining systems such as Four-C, AWD and DSTC we can offer a driving experience of extremely high calibre under virtually all operating conditions, even when the car is loaded," says Tomas Ahlborg. "The fact that the driver can also influence the car's character via the alternative chassis settings makes the experience and the feeling of control even more highly appreciated."
5. First-class comfort and versatile function
*Increased legroom *Ventilated seats *Clean Zone Interior Package provides enhanced comfort *Personal comfort settings *Smart and versatile functionality *Versatile load compartment floor makes loading easier *Power-operated tailgate
"By building on the modern S80 base when we designed the all-new XC70 model, we have been able to improve both comfort and the scope for utilizing the vehicle in an intelligent way," says Tomas Ahlborg. "More interior space and more versatile functions make the all-new Volvo XC70 a truly capable companion for adventurers and everyday motorists alike."
Increased legroom The all-new Volvo XC70 is both more spacious and more comfortable than its predecessor. The distance from front to rear passengers has been extended by 21 millimetres, rear legroom by 48 millimetres and rear knee clearance by 21 millimetres. Large drivers and passengers will be happy to note that width at shoulder height has been increased by 30 millimetres in the front seats.
Ventilated seats Volvo's front seats are regarded by many as the very best on the market. They are designed to offer the best possible support and comfort, even on long trips. Power-adjustable seats are available as an option, and they can be equipped with perforated and ventilated leather upholstery. These seats are equipped with fans in the seat and backrest cushions. The temperature in the cushions is swiftly lowered to a pleasant level and contributes to superb seating comfort, especially on hot days and in humid climates.
The opposite effect - heating of the front seats when the weather turns chilly - can be selected at a choice of three temperature settings. The rear seat too can be specified with heating, which includes separate switches for each of the two outer seats and, as in the front seats, three temperature settings.
Clean Zone Interior Package provides enhanced comfort In order to give particularly sensitive passengers a better interior in-car climate, the all-new Volvo XC70 can be equipped with the Clean Zone Interior Package, a system that is based on ECC (Electronic Climate Control) and IAQS (Interior Air Quality System).
When the car is unlocked using the remote control, the passenger compartment is automatically ventilated for about a minute if the outdoor temperature is higher than 10 degrees Celsius. Clean Zone Interior Package creates a passenger environment that has been approved by the Swedish Asthma and Allergy Association. The interior trim materials and fittings have been selected to emit minimum levels of harmful substances.
Personal comfort settings The XC70 driver has a wide range of scope for adjusting the car's comfort functions to suit his or her personal needs and wishes. These settings are altered in the car's information system. The menu includes the seats, rear-view mirrors, climate unit, audio unit, navigation system and to a certain extent the car's driving properties. One of the selectable functions is automatic operation of the rear defroster. When this setting is chosen, the defroster is automatically activated when outside temperature is about 9 degrees C. Another example is the speed-dependent power steering. It is an option and can be set at one of three levels via the information system. "Being able to alter settings oneself gives added comfort," says Tomas Ahlborg. "However, from the safety viewpoint it is important that we do not spend too much time on the menu system while driving. In order to prevent the driver from losing concentration on the road while driving, certain functions are therefore blocked in the menu after about 20 seconds."
Smart and versatile functionality "The all-new Volvo XC70 is synonymous with versatility and enhanced capability," says Tomas Ahlborg. "Plenty of space, a three-part rear seat and a number of intelligent functions make loading and travel a real pleasure, both with and without luggage."
The rear seat splits 40/20/40, with two very comfortable seats and a convenient armrest in between. The centre backrest can be folded to make space for long cargo items or raised to provide an additional seat. The backrests can be folded separately to create a larger load compartment with an entirely flat floor. With the foldable backrest in the front passenger seat, the combination possibilities are even greater.
The luggage compartment floor is equipped with aluminium rails and movable anchorage points to secure the load. The anchorage points can be tucked down into the rails when they are not in use so they are entirely out of the way. The side panels also have built-in load anchorage eyelets to keep luggage securely in place. What is more, they can be supplemented with multifunctional rails for a variety of hooks, load-anchoring nets, cargo space dividers and other load-related accessories.
In order to protect the luggage compartment floor there is a wide range of mats, including one that can be folded double for normal use or opened out across the entire luggage compartment floor when the rear backrests are folded down.
Versatile load compartment floor makes loading easier An extra sliding load floor is available as an accessory. It is fastened simply and quickly in the floor rails and slides out easily over the bumper to permit convenient loading. It is automatically locked into place when the handle is released. When it is not in use, the floor can easily be removed from the car altogether. The sliding floor and complete load system fulfil Volvo's extremely high demands for safety.
Power-operated tailgate Loading is can be made even more convenient by the fact that choosing the optional power-operated tailgate is power-operated. It is opened by pressing a button on the remote control, and the rest is handled by the car's hydraulics. Handy when your own hands are full. In order to reduce the risk of accidentally squashing one's hands or fingers, it is closed from the panel on the tailgate itself. What is more, there is a dual-stage safety function integrated into the tailgate, involving a pinch protection moulding on each side and an emergency stop, which means that the hydraulic system is equipped with a force sensor, stopping immediately if it senses an obstruction during operation. A wide range of accessories featuring holders for such equipment as bikes, kayaks, skis and snowboards is available for cars with or without rails. Bikes can also be transported inside the car, secured to the floor rails using a special holder.
6. World class audio system
*Digital technology contributes to natural sound profile *Automatic volume and tone adjustment *Three performance levels *Dolby Pro Logic II Surround with adjustable sound pattern *World-famous loudspeakers from Dynaudio of Denmark *Optional subwoofer provides richer bass tones *Plays MP3 format *Integrated DVD system in the rear seat *The latest-generation RTI
"Volvo's audio systems are among the very best in the automotive world today," says Tomas Ahlborg. "And obviously only the best is good enough in a car of the calibre of the all-new Volvo XC70. In cooperation with the foremost audio manufacturers in the world, we have developed a first-class sound system with a digital amplifier from Alpine, Dolby Pro Logic II Surround and excellent loudspeakers from Danish experts Dynaudio. The result is an audio experience of absolute world class."
Digital technology contributes to natural sound profile The very latest in digital technology has been used to control and adjust sound reproduction to suit the shape of the passenger compartment and the positioning of the loudspeakers. Using DSP - Digital Signal Processing - the tone curve has been fine-tuned so it contributes to natural audio quality.
Digital technology is also used in Volvo's modern amplifier, developed in cooperation with Alpine. A digital class D amplifier has extremely low current consumption thanks to its high efficiency rating. This чalso means that it produces less heat than an analogue amplifier and that it can be made more compact.
Volvo's amplifier also has a particularly high damping factor thanks to ICEPower® technology from Denmark's Bang & Olufsen PowerHouse a/s. This technology contributes to crystal-clear yet powerful sound all the way down to the deepest bass tones.
Automatic volume and tone adjustment Owing to the use of digital technology, the sound can be adjusted to match the driving situation. Not only volume but tone too is adjusted automatically in response to the car's speed. Furthermore, there is scope for individual preferences. In the car's menu system with its personal settings the driver can choose by how much the sound should be adjusted in relation to the car's speed. There are three levels to choose between: low, medium and high.
Three performance levels For the all-new Volvo XC70 there are three levels of sound system to choose between:
*Performance - with a 4x20 W amplifier and six loudspeakers *High Performance - with a 4x40 W amplifier and eight loudspeakers *Premium Sound - with a digital 5x130 W amplifier, Dolby® Pro Logic II Surround and twelve Dynaudio loudspeakers. The system can also be supplemented with a subwoofer under the luggage compartment floor. It features an integrated digital 2 x 130 W amplifier.
Dolby Pro Logic II Surround with adjustable sound pattern Volvo was the first car-maker in the world to factory-fit an audio system with Dolby® Pro Logic Surround sound. The technology was developed to provide authentic multi-channel sound perception and it was introduced in 1997 in the very first Volvo C70 generation.
The system offered on the all-new Volvo XC70 is the latest surround-sound generation, Dolby Pro Logic II Surround. It is a 5.1-channel system that provides a broad audio profile in the front seats and authentic stereo effect and full bandwidth in the rear seat. What is more, sound from the front and rear loudspeakers is blended into a natural entity.
In order to further contribute to the best possible individual audio experience, the Premium Sound unit has a special setup facility. The audio profile can be optimised in three different ways - for the best possible clarity from the driver's seat, from both front seats or from the rear seat. The selection is made via the car's information system. "A person riding alone in the car can set up the audio profile with unashamed selfishness!" says Tomas Ahlborg. "And if the car owner is riding in the back seat, it's equally easy to prioritise the audio experience there."
World-famous loudspeakers from Dynaudio of Denmark The loudspeakers in the Volvo XC70 are of consistent high quality. The Premium Sound level features loudspeakers from Danish specialists Dynaudio®, a company with which Volvo has had long in-depth technical cooperation.
There are large three-way loudspeakers integrated into the front doors. The rear doors feature two-way loudspeakers with a tweeter and a mid/woofer. The tweeter diaphragm is made of textile (known as a silk dome tweeter), a Dynaudio speciality that helps create more crystal-clear sound. Each loudspeaker has a passive crossover filter to provide a harmonious total sound experience with the best possible bandwidth and dynamics. Specially developed centre loudspeakers in the instrument panel interact with the door-mounted loudspeakers to create a natural, homogeneous sound.
Optional subwoofer provides richer bass tones To achieve even deeper, richer bass tones, the Premium Sound and High Performance systems can be complemented with a twelve-litre, dual-chamber subwoofer under the luggage floor, close to the rear seat backrest. The subwoofer, which is developed by Alpine, includes two 6.5" bass elements and an integrated digital 2x130 W amplifier. This subwoofer is able to provide very high-quality bass performance.
Plays MP3 format With the High Performance and Premium Sound systems, it is now possible to play CDs with music in MP3 or WMA format. This means that the CD changer can store several hundred tracks and give the owner access to large sections of his or her personal musical library in the car.
In addition, all the audio units are now equipped with an extra input (AUX) for connecting additional equipment such as a portable MP3 player.
In order to boost radio listening quality, the FM radio has no less than three aerials to ensure the best possible reception in a system known as scanning diversity.
Integrated DVD system in the rear seat It is possible to equip the car with a highly advanced entertainment system designed for passengers in the back seat, known as Rear Seat Entertainment or RSE. An integrated DVD player, seven-inch flat-screen monitors built into the front seat headrests, wireless headphones and remote control are all included in the system. An extra socket makes it possible to connect an additional DVD player, TV game or video camera. The two screens can be used independently of one another.
The latest-generation RTI Volvo's RTI (Road and Traffic Information) navigation system is highly efficient. The range of maps has recently been extended, with several new countries added, particularly in Eastern Europe. There are now three DVD discs for Europe and three for the USA, where Hawaii and Canada have been added. The material has also been updated with the latest roads, restaurants and hotels.
The system has been further developed with a new processor, which among other things allows alternative routes to be calculated far faster than before. In addition, new information such as the national flag and facts about the country, speed limits and rules governing the use of mobile phones while driving is shown on the screen when a national border is passed.
Volvo has announced that they have issued a recall affecting 42,000 of their flagship sport-utility vehicle, the XC90. The culprit being a faulty battery switch, only the North American models are affected. The switch is prone to create short circuits if the jack handle comes in contact with it. Note that only the MY2005 models are affected.
