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Volvo V70 and XC90 'R-Design'

November 5th 2008 21:30
Volvo V70 T6 R-Design
Volvo V70 T6 R-Design


To be blunt, Volvo's aren't known for building sporty and dynamic vehicles - in other words, they're rather dull. Understandably, the Swedish car maker misses out on a sizable demographic due to its safe but dull image so what do you do?

You enhance the external and interior visual impact with a range of specially designed elements and give it some funky name - in this case, R-Design - and hope that it attracts buyers that would normally look elsewhere when shopping for a new car.


Volvo XC90 R-Design
Volvo XC90 R-Design


The latest vehicles in the Volvo line-up to receive the R-Design styling pack are the V70 (T6 model) and XC90 (3.2, D5 and V8 models ranges).

The V70 Estate T6 R-Design features unique 18-inch 'Cratus' alloy wheels and lowered, sports-tuned suspension comprising higher-rated anti-roll bars and bushings. The V70 T6 R-Design sits 20mm lower at the front, and 15mm lower at the rear than the standard V70 T6.

The R-Design styling gives the V70 a sportier look too, with a colour-matched rear spoiler, matt satin finish grille and exterior mirrors and 90 mm chrome exhaust pipes. The R-Design V70 T6 declares itself with a special badge set into the grille.

The sporty theme extends to the Inside where you'll find two-tone leather sport seats with extra side bolstering, a leather-rimmed R-Design steering wheel, new instruments with blue inserts, a sports shift lever and the use of unique aluminium trim on areas such as the centre stack and floor pedals.

Volvo R-Design


For the XC90 range, the XC90 V8 R-Design replaces the XC90 V8 Sport with higher-rated anti-roll bars, firmer shock absorbers, sports-tuned speed-dependent steering and larger 19-inch alloy wheels - optional 20-inch alloy wheels are available. All this complements the
V8's self-levelling Nivomat suspension system for superior driving dynamics.

The XC90 V8 R-Design also gains an aggressive quad exhaust system giving a pleasing, sportier sound.


Interior-wise, highlights include Volvo's Dynaudio Premium Sound system, complete with 12 speakers and six-stack CD player, as well as Bi-Xenon headlights with washers, Auto Dim rear view mirror, Rain Sensor wipers and the Interior Air Quality System (IAQS).

In addition, the XC90 V8 R-Design features sports seats with additional lateral bolstering, two different, complimentary grades of leather with contrasting piping, silk matt-finish that replaces chrome trim, unique brushed stainless steel sill mouldings, sport steering wheel and perforated leather shift knob, chronograph-style instruments and sports carpets with contrasting piping.

The R-Design option is $4,175 on the V70 and $6,000 on the XC90 range.


[Source: Volvo]








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2009 Volvo S80 T6 AWD

November 3rd 2008 05:15
2009 Volvo S80 T6 AWD


Swedish car maker Volvo have announced a new addition to the Volvo S80 range with the S80 T6 AWD equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder T6 engine plus permanent all-wheel drive.

Replacing the old 3.2-litre six-cylinder powerplant, the force-fed 3.0-litre six-cylinder T6 engine featuring multi-valve cylinder heads with twin overhead camshafts, along with a twin-scroll turbocharger develops 210 kW and a useful 400 Nm of torque (available from 1500 rpm).

2009 Volvo S80 T6 AWD


This compact T6 engine features a direct-driven alternator fitted to the engine block while the power steering pump and air conditioning compressor sits unconventionally behind the engine. Coupled with the engine block integrated vibration damper, this frees up a lot of longitudinal space.

With power sent to all four wheels through a six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, the T6 is capable of accelerating the S80 from 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.

Boasting the S80's signature 'Floating Centre Console' that contributes to a sense of space in the front compartment and right through to the rear seats, large, ergonomic seats provide sumptuous comfort for both front and rear passengers and, at the front, can be specified with an optional ventilation system to provide extra cooling in hot Australian summers. Front seat heating, which takes the edge off cold winter days, and electric power adjustment are standard on all S80s.

2009 Volvo S80 T6 AWD interior


A list of new features for 2009 include changes to the auto-closing buttons for the windows and sunroof which now have side ridges preventing unintentional activation, a new range of interior colours, optional sun curtains, a new claret walnut wood trim, tyre pressure monitoring system, revised front head restraints and refinements to the audio systems.

The 2009 Volvo S80 T6 AWD is priced from $78,950.

The Official Volvo Press Release:

The dynamic and luxurious Volvo S80 enters the 2009 model year ready to expand its presence in the luxury segment with the introduction of a compact, turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder T6 engine to the Volvo S80 range.

The new S80 T6 AWD model joins the high-performance S80 V8 AWD, featuring a 60-degree, 4.4-litre all-alloy V8 and producing a powerful 232 kW and 440 Nm, along with the S80 D5 featuring Volvo's 2.4-litre turbodiesel that develops 136 kW and a surging 400 Nm of torque to provide sports sedan performance combined with outstanding fuel economy.

With a sparkling 210 kW and a muscular 400 Nm of torque (developed from just 1500 rpm) at its disposal, the T6 engine replaces the previous 3.2-litre six-cylinder powerplant to further raise performance levels and add to the refinement of Volvo's flagship sedan.

The T6 engine features multi-valve cylinder heads with twin overhead camshafts, along with a twin-scroll turbocharger that provides extremely swift responses comparable to a twin-turbo system.

The S80's optional Rear Seat Entertainment System (RSE) now gets larger 8-inch screens on the back of the front-seat head restraints that have been designed to further improve viewing in daylight conditions, while the High Performance and Premium Sound systems now have a USB port enabling easy connection with an iPod, MP3 player, or even a digital camera. Bluetooth connectivity is standard on all models.

The S80's Interior Air Quality System (IAQS) effectively reduces the amount of particles, pollen, gases and odours entering the passenger compartment. In addition, all textiles and leather are certified under Oeko-Tex Standard 100, an international standard that ensures fabrics and hides have been thoroughly tested to check for certain allergy-inducing substances and emissions.

The S80 can also be optioned with Volvo's Clean Zone Interior Package (CZIP) - an advanced system approved by the Swedish Association against Asthma and Allergy - that provides healthier air quality inside the passenger compartment. When the car is unlocked via the remote control, the passenger compartment is automatically ventilated for about a minute if the outdoor temperature exceeds 10 degrees Celsius.

Advanced dynamics - an essential element in the Volvo S80
The dynamic abilities of the S80 are underpinned by an all-independent suspension system using MacPherson struts at the front and a multilink axle at the rear, as well as Volvo's FOUR-C Active Chassis, which is standard on T6 and V8 models.

This advanced, electronically controlled system "reads" the road and adapts instantly to constantly varying driving conditions, combining precise, accurate handling with the smooth, comfortable ride expected by luxury segment customers.

By continuously modifying the damper rates to suit prevailing circumstances, the FOUR-C Active Chassis maximises comfort while resisting the tendency to squat, dip or roll under acceleration, hard braking or while cornering.

The system offers the choice of three settings:

COMFORT - for a relaxed, ultra-smooth ride
SPORT - more controlled body movements, faster steering response
ADVANCED - firm damper control, maximum road holding

In emergency driving situations, FOUR-C automatically adjusts to provide maximum stability.

The Haldex all-wheel drive system, which is standard on T6 and V8 S80 models, employs an electronically controlled hydraulic clutch that constantly balances the power bias between the front and rear wheels to ensure optimal roadholding in all situations.

In its latest iteration, the S80's all-wheel-drive system features Instant Traction, which sets a bias (approximately 1500 Nm) favouring the rear wheels when starting on slippery or loose surfaces.

The S80 is also fitted with Volvo's Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) - a yaw-sensor-based stability system that reduces engine output and selectively applies individual brakes when necessary to avoid under or oversteer.

Advanced safety features are a given with Volvo S80
Volvo has long been a pioneer of automotive safety engineering and has acquired a vast knowledge through intensive studies that include real-life accidents as well as sophisticated laboratory testing.

The S80 benefits from this accrued know-how with systems such as Side Impact Protection System (SIPS), Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS), dual-stage front airbags, seat-mounted side airbags, inflatable curtain airbags and emergency flashing brake lights.

Volvo's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), which advises the driver if another vehicle is travelling behind the B-pillar (or in the 'blind spot') along with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), which is equipped with the driver fatigue monitoring system Driver Alert Control (DAC), are standard with the new Teknik pack and optional otherwise.

Exterior changes identify 2009 Volvo S80 range
The sweeping, elegant shapes of the Volvo S80 brought a fresh new look to the Australian luxury market when it was introduced here in 2007.

The 2009 S80 range adds to the dynamic appearance with a wide range of wheel choices including the striking new "Cassini" 17-inch alloys and, at the rear, is identified by a more pronounced Volvo identification.

All S80s are fitted with active bi-Xenon headlights with washer function as well as Home Safe and Approach lighting systems.

Key Standard Features
Comfort

* Personal Car Communicator inc. keyless entry & alarm
* Bluetooth
* Front & Rear Park Assist
* High Performance Sound with 6-CD (8 speakers)
* Dual Zone Climate Control
* Humidity Sensor
* Auto Dim Rear View Mirror
* Rain Sensor Wipers
* Electric Park Brake
* 18" Alloys

Safety

* Dynamic Stability & Traction Control (DSTC)
* 4C - Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept
* Active Bi-Xenon Headlights
* Side Impact Protection System (SIPS)
* Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS)
* Inflatable Curtains (IC)
* Laminated Side Windows

Packages add value
The 2009 Volvo S80 is available with two optional packages - Teknik and Travel:
Teknik

Volvo Navigation System (VNS)
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)
Adaptive Cruise Control with collision warning and auto brake
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) with Driver Alert Control (DAC)
Compass
Total Value: $13,000
RRP: $9,500

Travel Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE)
Rear Headphone Sockets
Ventilated Front Seats
Heated Rear Seats
Total Value: $6,300
RRP: $4,500


[Source: Volvo]









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Volvo Lane Departure Warning
Volvo Lane Departure Warning


Given the current worldwide financial turmoil, car manufacturers have had to come up with ways to attract new customers in the form of pricing downgrades, equipment upgrades etc


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Volvo Ocean Race XC70
Volvo Ocean Race XC70


To celebrate the 2008/2009 Volvo Ocean Race, the 'Everest of Sailing' which involves circumnavigating the globe over 10 legs, Swedish car maker Volvo is launching two special versions of the XC70 and XC90 models featuring some exclusive touches such as special stitching on the upholstery, aluminium detailing, bespoke alloy wheels and exclusive liveries: Ocean Blue or Electric Silver


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Volvo C30 with removable film


In an effort to make the Volvo C30 hatchback more appealing - or unappealing, as is most likely the case - the Swedish car maker has announced a new personlisation program that allows you to customise the C30 with a removable film featuring roughly 20 different designs


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Video: 2009 Volvo XC60

February 22nd 2008 10:30
Volvo XC60


A video of Volvo's XC60 crossover compact off-roader which the Swedish car maker proudly proclaims to be the most stunning Volvo to leave the production line has been released


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Geneva Motor Show: 2009 Volvo XC60

February 21st 2008 05:15
Volvo XC60 Crossover


Swedish car maker Volvo has released some official pics and specs for the smallest off(soft)-roader in their line-up, the XC60 crossover vehicle


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