by Volvo in the News on February 11, 2010

Volvo has been in a bit of a awkward position in recent months. Not only have auto sales stalled, but Ford has finally succeeded in selling the Swedish brand after a drawn-out attempt to find a bidder.
But despite a dearth in recent sales, Volvo is looking to rekindle excitement for the brand with the launch of the all-new Volvo S60 sedan. Volvo believes the new S60 will be highly successful based on passion of the design team that labored to make it the most “dynamic car model” the company has ever produced. [click to continue…]
by Volvo in the News on January 15, 2010

It seems the the automotive industry as a whole is actively researching innovative new technologies. Not only are the Japanese automakers continuing their lead in producing new hybrid technologies and electric vehicles, but Americans, Germans, and even the Swedes are embarking on developing electrified drivetrains.
Although Volvo has recently been sold by Ford to China’s Geely automotive, which will no doubt yield many changes, for now there is no sign that this move will derail Volvo’s testing of a plug-in all-electric variant of its C30 hatchback. [click to continue…]
by Volvo in the News on December 31, 2009

The all-new 2011 Volvo S60 will enter production this summer in Gent, Belgium. It will also make its official debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show in March. Until then, Volvo fans will be able to appreciate the sexiness of this new sedan by watching the video just released by Volvo.
This teaser video was released on Facebook, and highlights the many of the S60’s attractive design features, including a coupe-like roof-line and angular front fascia. Overall, the design is very similar to the S60 Concept released a year ago. As Volvo’s customer base has changed, Volvo Of Charlotte NC says, so has the lineup’s design. [click to continue…]
by Volvo in the News on November 23, 2009

The 2011 Volvo S60 has been highly anticipated thanks to the sleek concept unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show last year. Although Volvo is not highly competitive in the premium midsize sedan segment, the 2010 S60 is hoped to change that. With the eight year lifespan of the current S60 finally coming to an end, dealers and consumers alike appear to be quite excited about the S60’s release.
On sale in the latter half of 2010, the 2011 S60 should look very similar to the sleek concept from Detroit. In fact, most of the curvaceous lines of the concept will most definitely be retained.

Depending on the angle you’re viewing the 2011 Volvo S60, it looks very coupe-like, akin the popular “four-door coupe” designs currently in the premium segment such as the VW CC and the Mercedes-Benz CLS. Styling is also somewhat reminiscent of the latest Jaguar designs suggests customers at one Volvo 4×4 Maine dealer, but the design is certainly Volvo through and through, particularly due to the grille and front fascia.
Although specs about the vehicle and specifically what lies under the hood have yet to be released, rumors suggest smaller gasoline engine that utilize turbocharging and direct-injection may be an option. Such an engine could produce ample power, but Volvo Dealers NC says more importantly will drive an impressive fuel economy rating. Whatever powertrain options become available with the latest S60, expect to see a front-wheel drive standard with a Power Shift 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. [click to continue…]
by Volvo in the News on August 17, 2009

Few automakers have provided the number of safety innovations that Volvo has been able to accomplish. Perhaps one of Volvo’s best known innovations is the three point safety belt, which was officially developed 50 years ago and debuted in the Volvo PV544.
Volvo had introduced the modern safety belt on their cars years before the entire industry embraced the device. But due to its life-saving results, the safety belt soon became a standard feature in every car on the road which North Carolina Volvo Dealers say helped to change the face of Volvo forever.
While the V shaped safety belt was their first invention, Volvo eventually introduced the three point safety belt in 1963 which provided even better protection for vehicle occupants. Testing administered by Volvo showed that the three point safety belt reduced injuries in collisions by 50 to 60 percent says Manchester NH car dealers. The following year, safety belts became standard equipment on all Volvo models for front and rear seat occupants.
The safety belt may seem commonplace today, but it is known as the most important safety innovation ever devised. Used Cars Kansas City suggest that since the development of the safety belt, perhaps the now ubiquitous electronic stability control system will come close, but it doesn’t quite provide the injury prevention that a safety belt does. Between the years of 2002 and 2006, the seat belt saved the lives of 75,000 people. It’s truly no wonder why all states, other than New Hampshire, have laws requiring seatbelt use. [click to continue…]
by Volvo in the News on July 29, 2009

Volvo has generally been unsuccessful in its attempts to convince car buyers that it can be a performance brand. Vehicles that feature the R-Design badge, such as the XC90 crossover are not preferred over similar premium-performance offerings from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and others. But despite this forced performance pedigree, that won’t seem to stop Volvo from trying again and again.
The latest R-design vehicle appears to be the Volvo S80 sedan. Their flagship sedan has not yet been available with the R badging like other models in the lineup, but Maine Volvo Parts says it will soon feature a R-Design interior package to test consumer reaction. If the $820 interior package performs well, a full exterior package is likely to follow. It will also boost the cost significantly.
Since sportiness is often a key ingredient to large sedans in the premium segment, some at Volvo Boston suggest not to be surprised to see an S80 R by the end of 2009. Fitted with unique body styling, rear spoiler, and aggressive wheels, such a trim package will likely make this demure sedan turn more heads predicts Used Cars Portland, but will it be enough to compete against its German counterparts?
Volvo, like other automakers, is also working to boost efficient throughout the lineup. This means that the R-design trim will likely not go much farther beyond aesthetic modifications. Also, with the level of competition in this sub-niche of the premium segment, don’t expect Volvo to go overboard. [click to continue…]
by Volvo in the News on May 26, 2009

These days video games are a big business, and increasingly automakers are noticing. Automotive games such as Gran Turismo are in high demand and are even inspiring the development of games on iPhones and other portable devices. The latest to tap into the marketing potential of video games is Volvo to promote its new Volvo S60 Concept.
The new Volvo game includes not only the S60 but also allows players to drive the C30 hatchaback. The game not only promotes specific Volvo models, but Volvo Accessories Portland says it is also intended to promote Volvo’s motorsports program.
Developed in conjunction of SimBin, which is widely known for realistic racing simulators, “Volvo The Game” is the exact type of interactive marketing that automakers are trying to embrace. Ironically, one Volvo dealer that specializes in Jersey City auto loans admits that Volvo is not known for its motorsports efforts. In fact, many consumers probably are completely unaware that Volvo is even involved in racing, suggests Manchester NH car dealers. Regardless, the new game is a way for Volvo to at least introduce a younger demographic to its motorsports endeavors.
According to SimBin execs, Volvo hoped to develop a PC-based game that appealed to a broad audience. The game also had to include the aforementioned S60 Concept. Like Volvo, Boston Auto Loans points out that SimBin is also a Sweden-based company.
Thanks to SimBin’s prowess for developing realistic racing simulators, the Volvo game does not lack realism. While the goal of the game is to spur excitement for a new model, the game is highly enjoyable for racing enthusiasts and casual gamers. Volvo will also be publishing scores on a leaderboard online and will give out prizes to those who win. To learn more about Volvo The Game and the download the game, check out the microsite for the S60 Concept car. [click to continue…]
by Volvo in the News on April 28, 2009

For those rare drivers who want the utility of an all-wheel drive vehicle, without the bulkiness of an SUV, there really aren’t too many choices for you. You could look at a Subaru, or you could look at the preeminent wagon maker: Volvo.
The Volvo XC70 is an all-wheel drive version of the of the V70 wagon. What sets this vehicle apart from the competition is its all-weather capabilities that give it the ability to traverse plenty of inclement driving conditions – which is especially attractive in New England winters says Jersey City Auto Loans. Powering the Volvo XC70 is a 3.2-liter inline six cylinder engine that produces 235 horsepower. As a option, buyers can also get a turbo 3.0-liter inline six cylinder engine, which is known as the T6 model.
While some may think Volvo only produces stodgy wagons, the XC70 is certainly the exception. If buyers opt for the more powerful T6 model, there’s more than enough power to from A to B in a brisk pace. The XC70 is also quiet and composed on the road notes New Hampshire Volvo dealers‘ test drivers, and provides an interior that’s plenty luxurious to put it on par with many Euro-luxury brands.
The Volvo XC70 starts at just below $40,000. Getting the Premium package and the more powerful T6 engine will certainly boost the price by several thousand, but would be well worth it in our humble opinion. [click to continue…]
by Volvo in the News on April 27, 2009

Volvo is well known for its innovative engineering and technologies when it comes to safety devices. The latest Volvo, the XC60 crossover, is no exception to possessing exciting safety technology. The new XC60 crossovers features City Safety, just the latest Volvo innovation that not only keeps drivers safe, but helps to proven crashes altogether.
Volvo’s City Safety uses a laser within the rear view mirror that sense objects ahead. If the system senses that the XC60 is going collide with another object, the system will automatically apply the brakes and stop the car. The system will engage at less than 10 miles per hour.

As the name would imply, Volvo’s City Safety is geared specifically towards drivers in urban areas. It’s all too common that city folk can be distracted by a cup of coffee, cell phone, or the kids in the back. The system is designed specifically for those little distractions; the split seconds disruption that could lead to an accident. The system not only increases safety but also could lower insurance premiums for those who buy the XC60 (Volvo’s working on it).
In addition to this exciting new safety feature, the Volvo XC60 is a great new compact crossover that includes an array of luxury features, including a 281 horsepower turbocharged engine, six-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels, and it even includes maintenance. Available options include satellite navigation and DVD entertainment system for rear occupants.

Balancing superb safety and luxury is what Volvo is known for, and the all-new Volvo XC60 is a good example of Volvo achieving that perfect balance. If Volvo is successful in getting insurance premiums lowered thanks to its new City Safety system, expect plenty of buyers wanting to take advantage. [click to continue…]