Major revamp for Volvo range

Volvo has overhauled the majority of its range in what it describes as “the most extensive development of existing models” in the firm’s history.

The Volvo S60 saloon, Volvo V60 estate, Volvo XC60 SUV, V70 estate, XC70 4x4 estate and S80 saloon all get a new family look, improved equipment levels and fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions without sacrificing performance.

Volvo's updates aren't limited to just exterior changes, however. S60 models benefit from new interior trim, which is claimed to give the revised car's cabin the feel of a Swedish house, while adaptive cornering lights are now available. 

The S80 saloon is available with a new luxury "Executive" interior package that provides bespoke trim options. The XC60, Volvo's best-selling model, is now devoid of black trim of a "more urban look" and torque vectoring is standard fit.

Only the recently introduced V40 hatchback and the Volvo XC90 SUV, which is due to be replaced next year, continue unchanged. Production of the S40 saloon, V50 wagon, C30 hatch and C70 convertible ended last year.

The look of the new models incorporates styling references from the Volvo Concept You, a big saloon concept revealed at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show.

The more rounded and dynamic family look of the previous models is replaced by a visually widened front end, more prominent horizontal lines and slimmer lights.

A key addition to the firm’s BMW 3-series-rivalling S60 and V60 models is the option of a lowered sports chassis for all variants, something previously offered on R-Design versions only.

The reduction in CO2 emissions for the S60 peaks on the 113bhp 1.6-litre turbodiesel D2 version, which now stands at just 106g/km. The economy of this model is claimed by Volvo to be 70.6mpg on the EU combined cycle. 

S80 versions also benefit from efficiency improvements; D2 specification cars emit 108g/km of CO2 and offer a combined 68.9mpg. The V70, in D2 form, emits a reduced 112g/km of CO2. XC70 models emit 139g/km of CO2 in D4 and D5 trim. 

A new multimedia system has been introduced across the six revised models. Called Sensus Connected Touch, the system includes full internet access, internet radio, Google maps and search and internet music streaming. Internet access is obtained through 3G/4G from the driver’s mobile phone. The seven-inch touchscreen can also be used while wearing gloves. 

The TFT instrument panel from the latest V40 has been rolled out across the revised Volvo range. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters have also been added to automatic models, while a heated steering wheel can be specified on the S80, V70 and XC70. Additionally, a fast-clearing heated front windscreen has been added to Volvos that are equipped with a rain sensor.