Until quite recently in order to appear on Volvo’s sales radar you would have needed to be either a police force or someone with a lot of furniture or children to move around or perhaps both. There have only been a couple of occasions in Volvo’s long motoring history where they have produced a design that bucked the reputation for solid and dependable if not terribly exciting cars. The P1800 was a design classic but considering they stopped making it in 1973 and was in essence a sports car something new from the Swedish stable has been a long time coming.
Other previous attempts to make a small, two-door hatchback have resulted in the much maligned 340 series with its Renault engine or the somewhat troublesome 480 which smelt of smouldering electrics as soon as you turned the ignition key. As a result of these somewhat disastrous forays into the smaller car market, Volvo rather rapidly went back to producing larger rear wheel drive cars which it has historically been rather good at.
Volvo who were founded in 1927 surprised the automotive world in 1999 and decided to sell the family silver to good ‘ol Ford and as a result the two blue badges (oval and kinda square) became one. This was quite a canny move by the Swedes as Ford has more or less let Volvo get on with things and in turn Volvo has sent a healthy profit back to Detroit (a reported $700 million in 2004). Despite falling sales in the USA, it has at times been the only profitable car-maker in the House of Henry.
Turning our attention now to the C30, Volvo has benefited from Ford’s ride and handling prowess mainly thanks to the highly praised Focus chassis and its line-up of petrol and Peugeot/Ford diesel engines, Volvo now has the tools to do the small-car business.
The C30 has set itself apart from competition such as the Audi A3 and BMW’s 1-series with softer lines and lends itself to less angular coupes of old. The C30 is being strongly marketed at a “young and dynamic” market to people with “intense urban lifestyles” whoever they are, although Volvo is still expecting to sell some cars to the rest of us regular folks. Production will be at Volvo’s Ghent plant in Belgium with some 65,000 C30’s expected to roll off the lines each year.
As you would expect with all Volvo’s the C30 has an excellent build quality to easily match its German rivals. The panel gaps are spot on and the lustrous paintwork then leads you into a well designed high quality cabin. The soft coatings of the interior give rise to a cleverly designed “floating” centre console which provides hidden storage space behind. An optional satellite navigation system emerges from the dash if you should lose your way.
There is not a huge amount of luggage space as you might expect in a two-door coupe but then hey if it’s a family car you are after you’re barking up the wrong tree here.
The C30 comes with a good choice of engine sizes from 1.6 litre petrol through to a 2.5 litre turbocharged T5 model. A number of oil-burners are available too including 1.6/2.0 and the top spec 2.4 D5 Unit. Performance levels are good especially the T5 which will keep you holding on to your seat at a top speed of 149mph which is pretty good considering the car weighs in at 1.4 tons (Volvo’s never have been light weight). The ride quality is good as is the handling thanks to running gear donated from the Ford Focus. In keeping with all Volvo’s, safety is still a big factor and the C30 is packed with features, the cleverest of which is Volvo’s blind-spot information system with discreet lamps in the windscreen pillars which warn you when you’re about to run into something or someone!
The C30 should appeal to many, even people who don’t have “intense urban lifestyles” Sadly I don’t think that includes me any more.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Volvo C30
Labels: Volvo C30
Posted by minamija at 9:51 PM 0 comments
Volvo Electric Powered Concept Sports Car
While major U.S. automakers are focusing on hybrid and fuel cell vehicles, Volvo took a different route, unveiling a sports car powered entirely with lithium-ion batteries. Volvo's 3CC concept car, won "Best Design" and five Gold Standards at the recent Michelin Challenge Bibendum environmental competition in Shanghai, China.
"Not only does the 3CC combine classic Volvo styling cues with exotic gull-wing doors and a tapered, 2+1 seating configuration, but it does so with a highly advanced lithium-ion battery electric drive train. That's a step apart from the crowd, which these days is largely focused on hybrid and fuel cell concepts," says Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of the Green Car Journal.
"Just as the earlier ECC forwarded new thought in hybrid propulsion with its high-speed turbine-generator design," adds Cogan, "today's lithium-ion 3CC innovates with its thousands of smallish laptop computer-style batteries, which power this zero emission vehicle to impressive levels of efficiency and performance."
Advanced research into sustainable mobility and Volvo engineers have placed particular focus on the conditions regulating safety in small cars and their ability to handle incoming forces in a frontal collision.
The unique aerodynamic styling of Volvo's 3CC concept car allows room for a third seat in back. The unique ducktail design creates room for a third seat in the back, while the batteries are sandwiched into the floor panels.
The 3CC concept car features an 80-kilowatt motor that delivers up to 107 horsepower, it has a potential driving range of 300 km (approx 180 miles) the 3CC has a top speed of over 135 km per hour.
The carbon-fiber body is mounted on a steel space frame and composite floor panels, giving the lightweight vehicle the ability to leap to 60 miles per hour in less than 10 seconds. Volvo says the 3CC can travel 180 miles on one charge under ideal driving conditions
The Volvo 3 CC's safety features include Volvo Safety Ride Down Concept, a unique solution with a seat system that moves forward, a bit like a sled, at the same time as the front is deformed. This movement is slowed with the help of adaptive shock absorbers that tailor the damping effect to suit the collision force and the occupants’ number and weight. The interior can be moved between 0 and 200 mm forward, which has the same overall effect as extending the crumple zone by a corresponding length. It has seats that slide forward at the moment of deformation, the intention being to compensate for the small car’s traditional lack of space in the crumple zone.
Virtual tests showed that the most important part of a ride-down system is the energy absorber and that it needs to be adaptive in order to be a viable concept, by responding to differences in occupant load and crash severity”.
An environmentally efficient car that also has to be comfortable, enjoyable to drive, attractive to look at and safe to ride is an entirely new approach. The result is the Volvo 3CC, a sporty and appealing, extremely aerodynamic and compact car equipped with an energy-efficient electric motor.
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Posted by minamija at 9:49 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
2009 Volvo XC90
2009 Volvo XC90 rank 11 of 15 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on an analysis of published reviews and test of 47 Volvo XC90, and analysis of reliability and data security. The Volvo XC90 is an SUV with his family in a comfortable interior, a power and excellent security. Critics agree that the 2009 Volvo XC90 offers good value for its class, but beware that the relatively low price, with options for sources quickly. "They deserve praise Volvo XC90 cars are like bad roads, solid feel, and many security features," says Consumer Guide. "Even if there is the Volvo, the class mobility or the end of the program, prices are competitive, provided they keep a lid on the choice." Despite its strengths, the Volvo XC90 is in a class very competitive and buyers have many other good options, including the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350. For the year 2009, the Volvo XC90 is an optional package R-design, performance, internal and external extensions. The Volvo XC90 in different MIC - the base 3.2, 3.2 new R-Design, V8 and V8 R-Design.
Labels: Volvo, Volvo XC90
Posted by minamija at 1:11 AM 0 comments
2009 Volvo XC70
Labels: Volvo XC70
Posted by minamija at 1:06 AM 0 comments
2010 Volvo XC60
2010 Volvo XC60 Rank 4 of 8 luxury compact SUV. This ranking is based on an analysis of published reviews and test 17 Volvo XC60, and analysis of reliability and data security. Volvo, as the first entry in the segment of luxury compact SUV, Volvo XC60 combines the elegant look of performance. A baby brother of the Volvo XC90, which will compete against the BMW X3 and sharing a platform with the Land Rover LR2. One of the great strengths of the Volvo XC60 is the high number of advanced security equipment. In its biggest base, is equipped with four-wheel drive and the new Volvo City Safety system that reduces the low-speed impact of the automatic braking if there is a threat of accident and the SUV traveling speed of 18 mph. "[A] t approximately $ 40,000 for an Volvo XC60, Volvo has introduced, it seems attractive and well designed products on their hands," says Motor Trend. "The fugitive status of 'economy and our current trend away from SUVs - only time will tell if this is enough." Due to the weakness of sales in 2008, Volvo's future is uncertain. French Renault automobile talked with Ford about a purchase of Volvo cars, and some Chinese automobile manufacturers have also, according to their interest. Be assured that even if Ford sells Volvo, which will probably notice a difference. Some dealers are, but they are all the safeguards in place. The Volvo XC60 is available in two trim. 3 / 2, with a six-cylinder engine and front wheel drive, while the T6 AWD is equipped with a turbo engine and four-wheel drive vehicles.
Labels: Volvo, Volvo XC60, Volvo XC90
Posted by minamija at 1:03 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
2009 Volvo V70
2009 Volvo V70 on the site 5 of 7 luxury car. This ranking is based on an analysis of published reviews and test 30 Volvo V70, and analysis of reliability and data security. Although the 2009 Volvo V70 is a safe, comfortable and convenient, performance disappoints. If you click on the market for great handling, or at least a good fuel, is found elsewhere. Unless you are a parent of football, in 2009 Volvo V70 will probably not be the heart of Pitter-Pattera. Performance and outside Lackluster po 'later, the Volvo V70 offers loads of safety, comfortable seats and a large load space. For an average family of five hours, is quite comfortable. In fact, Motor Trend says, "Instead of strong emotional speech, all the new cars are fraught with more of everything the Volvo faithful appreciate." If you opt for a luxury shopping, auto, make sure that the Audi A4 Avant on the selection list. The assets of the Volvo V70 in almost all categories - improving consumer safety Top scores, all the standard wheel, and more. BMW 3-Series wagon better to buy even when there is a little 'more. Renovated in 2008, Volvo V70 station wagon is the model year 2009 virtually unchanged.
Labels: Volvo V70
Posted by minamija at 10:44 AM 0 comments
2009 Volvo V50
Labels: Volvo, Volvo S40 sedan, Volvo V50
Posted by minamija at 10:42 AM 0 comments
Monday, July 27, 2009
2009 Volvo S80
2009 Volvo S80 from 8 to 12 luxury cars. This ranking is based on an analysis of published reviews and test of 67 Volvo S80, and analysis of reliability and data security. The Volvo S80 is the big luxury saloon range of easy to understand. The Volvo S80 is a comfortable highway Cruiser with a confidence unmatched reputation is well deserved. He has not supported the sport question many of its competitors. 2009 Volvo S80 sedan is the flagship of the car more often linked to security. This is not a sports manager or at its disposal to win any drag race engine. But the Volvo S80 is unique and comfortable interior, and contains a number of security, not to all the other cars around the world. Although perhaps not win all the races, the largest Volvo sedan pamper its occupants in a comfortable environment and at any price. There are many excellent alternatives for safety marks, while in other areas. The Mercedes E class, for example, the Volvo crash test besting while nearly all other categories - even if the machine can be much more expensive. At the other end of the scale, let alone the Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable platform similar to Volvo S80 of the latest generation and most of the same safety equipment - but not this luxury car. 2009 The Volvo S80 is available in three versions: 3.2, T6 and V8. Each is named for the engine, credentials, and offers different levels of luxury as standard equipment - but packages are available for option one of the three above. For the year 2009, the Bluetooth standard, like bi-xenon, the number of hotels. The car has been updated to the year of 2010 model year.
Posted by minamija at 11:39 PM 0 comments
Volvo S60 2009
Volvo S60 2009 up 17 hours on average 17 Upscale Auto. This ranking is based on an analysis of published reviews and test of 53 Volvo S60, and analysis of reliability and data security. The Volvo S60 has been resolved, but some distributors do not yet have the models on their lots. These are not bad choices for the buyer, the first safety of the rest of the middle class left the car before a long run in terms of performance and cabin electronics. The Volvo S60 is that, compared to most of its competitors off. Its fun five-cylinder is smooth, but not with the acceleration of German or Japanese. The car is not the new standard for the handling of class, either. The Volvo S60 is a low starting EIA, and sells very slowly throughout 2008, so that the buyer may not have much to negotiate with the dealers. But the car is easy to see, next to new competitors. Most competitors are still safer than the Volvo. The BMW 3 Series now provides the values of safety and driving experience. The Cadillac CTS could say the same thing, and with offers of lower prices this year - the lower cost Volvo S60 - see the best car deals page for details Volvo S60 to replace it with a new model, probably in model years 2011 - and early glance, it may be recommended for a very different machine. 2009 Volvo S60 is available in two levels, the 2.5T and T5. The 2.5T is a four-wheel drive vehicles. Both have more than first class for the year 2009, with standard features, so far, in Advanced and Premium packages.
Labels: Volvo S60
Posted by minamija at 11:32 PM 0 comments
2009 Volvo S40
2009 Volvo S40 about 7 of 7 Upscale Small. This ranking is based on an analysis of published reviews and test of 66 Volvo S40, and analysis of reliability and data security. The S40 is the strange idea that the class of the market, and its security and partitions are - something that has become the brand Volvo. However, the lack limousine desire and hard work of leg strength of the class high marks. In our analysis, the Volvo S40 driver Woo sports, utility or design. But Bodyline attractive and elegant, modern safety features, according to Volvo a solid reputation and a sense of safety and the road. In the wake of a major 2009 update of Volvo S40 with less Powertrain options (even if the critics, poor manual sales are now below), in addition to standard functions and a new-T5 R-Design trim package with an external switch and interiors. Recent estimates also seem pleased with the previous Volvo S40 strong attributes, and then go from lowest car trains. But if you select from a luxury car, there are several machines with the features of the S40 is missing. For example, the new BMW 1 Series offers one of the best record in the category and the transfer of a manual for those who move their wheels. If you have more possibilities to offer the Volvo S40, Volkswagen GTI prices much space is intended to improve the application.
Posted by minamija at 11:26 PM 0 comments
2009 Volvo C70
Labels: 2009 Volvo C70, Volvo, Volvo C70
Posted by minamija at 12:15 AM 0 comments
2009 Volvo C30
Posted by minamija at 12:02 AM 0 comments
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Volvo S70 T5 & Volvo V70 R
Labels: Volvo, Volvo s70, Volvo s70 T5, Volvo v70 R
Posted by minamija at 12:16 AM 0 comments
For the security of Volvo C30
Posted by minamija at 12:12 AM 0 comments
Volvo S80 T6
Labels: Volvo S80
Posted by minamija at 12:07 AM 0 comments
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Volvo S90 Performance
Labels: Volvo S90, Volvo S90 performance
Posted by minamija at 7:40 PM 0 comments
Volvo S90
Labels: Volvo, Volvo 760, Volvo S90
Posted by minamija at 7:16 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Volvo S80
It then became one of the first Volvos to have departed from the traditional boxy design that Volvo vehicles are known for. The luxury car is also aimed to attract the attention of more car buyers. Its predecessor, the Volvo 960, throughout its lifespan, has only managed to become a best seller among Volvo enthusiasts. The Volvo S80 though has managed to increase the buyer base of Volvo by offering them something new and different from the Swedish brand.
The only problem that the S80 faced in its first generation is the question of power. While most cars in its class offer huge eight or six cylinder engines, the first generation Volvo S80 only offered a choice between a five-cylinder and a six-cylinder engine.
In an effort to increase power of the relatively smaller engines, Volvo equipped them with turbochargers. This increased their engines power output but are still not in the same league as Volvo’s competition. For the 2007 model year though, Volvo made a move that became a first for them.
The second generation of Volvo S80s are now equipped with V8 unit to match the power output of rival cars. That step made the S80 the first Volvo sedan to be equipped with a V8 engine. The 3.2-liter V8 engine available for the 2007 S80 sedan is capable of producing as much as 235 units of horsepower. The engine is the same used by Volvo in the award-winning XC90 but is much smaller.
In what Volvo calls the “Scandinavian luxury”, the cockpit of the Volvo S80 reflects simple yet functional and luxurious design cues. Aside from the interior styling, the control units of some of the S80’s features are also simple to operate thus making them convenient for consumers. The seats offer good side and back support which gives one a feeling of comfort even if he or she is strapped to the vehicle’s seats for an extended trip. For families, the Volvo S80 offers good storage capacity. The trunk is spacious and the rear seats can be folded to provide more space for cargoes. The entertainment system is superb with an MP3-capable six-CD changer which can connect to external audio players. The push button engine start feature is also one of the more technologically advanced features that the Volvo S80 employs.
And since the S80 is a Volvo, one can expect that it will be loaded with safety features. The S80 is built around a unibody structure which gives the occupants relative safety during crashes. Materials used in the constuction of the Volvo S80 differ in strength. Those which are far from passengers are not as strong as those near the passengers. This is specifically designed to absorb more energy in the event of a crash. Other safety features includes the adaptive cruise control, the BLIS or the Blind Spot Information System, the Personal Car Communicator, and adaptive bi-xenon headlights. The increased power output of the engine also needs a good braking system. The Volvo S80 is thus equipped with large ventilated disc brakes on all wheels. It is also equipped with an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution. The S80 is not only safe for its passengers but also for the environment, thanks to the Volvo catalytic converter it is equipped with.
Labels: Volvo, Volvo S80, Volvo sedan
Posted by minamija at 8:49 PM 0 comments
Volvo 700 and Volvo 900 series
The Volvo 700 and Volvo 900 series are two ranges of mid-size car manufactured by Volvo Cars in the 1980s and 1990s. The Volvo 700 series was introduced in 1982, followed in 1990 by the 900 series. The Volvo 700, designed by Jan Wilsgaard, was originally to have been a replacement for the 200 series, but production of that model continued.
The most visible differences between the Volvo 700 and the 900 series were the more rounded corners on the body of the latter, and a somewhat better-appointed interior. The Volvo 960 was substantially revised for the 1995 model year, improving the handling. The range was first augmented and finally supplanted by the Volvo 850 in 1993, with the last of the 900s being sold in 1998. Some 900 series were built as chassis for ambulances and hearses after the main production run had been completed.
The 760 was Volvo's attempt to cement a place in the prestige market, after building a reputation for being solid and safe rather than out-and-out luxurious cars. Jan Wilsgaard, head of Volvo's Design and Styling team, proposed over 50 new designs for the new car. It was introduced to the US in 1982 for the 1983 model year as the Volvo 760 GLE sedan. This new design was criticized by the media when released Gordon Murray of Autocar Magazine said, "To me it's obscene! That goes right against the grain of what everybody else is trying to do. To me it looks like a European version of a North American car. It produces the same amount of power as a 2600 or 3500 — in this day and age it disgusts me to see something about like that. It's a definite step backwards." All that changed however when Autocar and Car & Driver got their hands on a turbo intercooled Volvo 760; they said it was one of the best handling and fastest accelerating cars they had seen in a while, thundering from 0-60 mph (97&_160;km/h) in under 8 seconds.
Turbocharged and intercooled variants were added in 1984, station wagon variants and the 740 – the Volvo 760's lower-specification sibling – were introduced for the 1985 model year. In 1985 Electronic Traction Control system was introduced. For the 1988 model year, the 760 received numerous updates. From the outside, the most noticeable of the over 2,000 changes were the revised front sheetmetal, including an aluminium hood, recessed windscreen wipers, and new aerodynamic headlights. Inside, all 760s were equipped with a new electronic climate control (ECC), a revised dashboard, three-position tilt steering, and a new stereo system. Underneath, sedans received the same multi-link independent rear suspension that was used on the Volvo 780. Along with the revised dash, the interior saw the addition of a revised dome light and many fabric accent pieces.
Posted by minamija at 8:41 PM 0 comments
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Volvo Group
Volvo Group is a Swedish supplier of commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses and construction equipment, drive systems for marine and industrial applications, aerospace components and financial services. At that time, the car manufacturer was founded in April 14, 1927 in Gothenburg, the city, as a spin-off of the roller ball bearing maker SKF furnace. Volvo delisted on the Nasdaq in June 2007, but still listed in the Stockholm exchange. Volvo Car outstanding commitment to travel far beyond the borders. In the past 75 years, Volvo has become one of the most recognized and respected brands in the world, we provide an opportunity, not just export cars, but also our three core values of safety, quality and environmental services. Volvo Cars to establish people-oriented, whether it is the mainland people.
Posted by minamija at 4:28 AM 0 comments
Sunday, July 5, 2009
What Was the Volvo S90?
Posted by minamija at 8:50 PM 0 comments
Volvo 960/S90/V90
Posted by minamija at 8:41 PM 0 comments
Volvo 700 Series
The most visible differences between the Volvo 700 and the Volvo 900 series were the more rounded corners on the body of the latter, and a somewhat better-appointed interior. The 960 was substantially revised for the 1995 model year, improving the handling. The range was first augmented and finally supplanted by the Volvo 850 in 1993, with the last of the 900s being sold in 1998. Some Volvo 900 series were built as chassis for ambulances and hearses after the main production run had been completed.
Posted by minamija at 8:35 PM 0 comments
Thursday, July 2, 2009
2009 Volvo C70 T5 M 2dr Convertible Overview
The Volvo C70 only comes in one model, the hardtop convertible. It is powered by a 227-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-five engine matched with a six-speed manual transmission. A five-speed automatic transmission is optional. Safety features include electronic stability and traction control and anti-lock brakes with brake force distribution. In addition to the required front airbags, there are side airbags in front, and air curtains which activate upwards from the doors, even with the windows rolled down. The Rollover Protection System, a pop-up rollbar, is activated by a "pyrotechnic charge", which will smash the rollbars through the glass if the roof is up.
For 2009, the Volvo C70 carries over from 2008
Posted by minamija at 8:41 AM 0 comments