Volvo Looking To Refine Image With Redesigned Styling And High-Tech Engines
Over a decade ago, Volvo’s vehicles were known to be some of the safest on the planet, but were seen as boring and economical family sedans.
Then they tried to change their image some by adding sportiness to their models and turning towards premium vehicles and even adding some luxury to their brand. Now it just seems like Volvo’s a little bit confused but the manufacturer claims to move further upscale with a new design language and more fuel-efficient engines.
Volvo’s lightweight SPA platform will be seen in new mid-sized and large models starting in 2014, and with those vehicles we’ll also see Volvo’s new generation of smaller, four-cylinder engines. Volvo will also be turning towards turbochargers and plug-in hybrids in search for more power and fuel efficiency.
They also announced that a diesel plug-in hybrid powertrain that’s currently in development will be shown off at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show. Volvo is boasting 123-mpg with 440 lb-ft of torque out of this powertrain, with an electric-only mode giving it a range of 30-miles.
Volvo will also continue aiming towards being a luxury brand worldwide and “will go upmarket if the market will bear it.”
The next-generation XC90 will arrive in 2014 while the redesigned S80 will come in 2015. One thing is for sure, Volvo doesn’t have any plans to return to the old-school “brick” look but continue to broaden their new, rounded style.
[Source: Automotive News]
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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