Volvo at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2013

Volvo has been unveiled in Frankfurt with a major overhaul that gives greater prominence to the range of the Swedish brand. In short, the quality and attention to detail of the “60” line have been improved to make them more competitive in the markets where the brand is sold.

Among the new additions across the entire range, the Adaptive Digital Display, which debuted on the new V40, is now available on the new S60, V60 and XC60, with three graphic themes, as well as the new connectivity system, which includes cloud-stored services, navigation with 3D maps, an internet connection access point, TuneIn Internet Radio (with 80,000 channels), Bluetooth and voice control.

Among other changes, Volvo has also showcased its new Drive-E engine family. Initially, the new S60, V60 and XC60 will be available with three engines from the new generation: the 360 hp turbocharged petrol, the 245 hp T5 and the 181 hp D4 turbodiesel. A new 8-speed automatic gearbox will be standard. Consumption is as low as 3.7 l/100 km for the S60 with the manual gearbox.

On the S60, the horizontal lines have been emphasised both at the front and rear. Along with details such as a wider grille, daytime running lights and a new LED light guide in the rear lights.

In the interior, the highlights are new upholstery colours, new wood inlays, new badging, and silk-metal trim around the air vents and light controls. Four body trim levels will be available: Touring, Dynamic, Four C (Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept) and Lower Sport Chassis, previously only available in the R-Design version.

The V60 offers the greatest versatility. In addition to the same trim levels as the S60, it also features rear seats that can be folded in three sections, 40/20/40, adding up to 430 litres of cargo space.

Aesthetically, Volvo has opted for a more aggressive profile for this model. Although it is an estate, it has a pleasing presence that does not go unnoticed, with an appearance similar to that of a coupé.

The Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid is now available with a wide range of colours and specifications, including most of the design and technology improvements mentioned for the other models, which are common to all. It retains the 2.4-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel engine, which produces 215 hp and a maximum torque of 440 Nm, through a six-speed automatic transmission.

The rear axle is driven by a 70 hp electric motor with 200 Nm. The electric motor is powered by an 11.2 kWh lithium-ion battery installed under the floor of the boot. There are three driving modes: Pure, Hybrid or Power, depending on the type of propulsion, whether purely electric, with both motors, or in purely hybrid mode.

The Volvo XC60 now has a more urban touch. The front end has been redesigned and features a new bonnet design, with all black details removed and now a single body colour.

Among the electronic systems, Corner Traction Control now comes as standard. This torque vectoring system helps the driver avoid understeer by applying just the right amount of braking force to the inside wheels and boosting the outside wheels on acceleration out of a bend.

Finally, the Concept Coupé, a model we had glimpsed through teasers but which we have now been able to see in person. The Swedish brand is committed to making the basis of this concept the foundation for future models. In fact, the XC90 is planned to be the first to undergo the transformation, next year.

The Concept Coupé is equipped with hybrid technology, combining a two-litre twin-turbo engine with an electric motor driving the rear axle. The announced total output is 400 hp.

Source | Highmotor Team