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From Swedespeed.com Events Coverage Geneva, Switzerland may be known better for jewels, watches or chocolate, but anyone into cars may suggest a different mode of indulgence. Each March, the Geneva Auto Show marks one of Europe’s biggest and most important shows, one that plays an important role on Volvo’s own schedule.
Center stage at Volvo’s stand this year was the all-new XC60. Based on Volvo’s mid-to-large EUCD chassis shared with the new XC70, V70 and S80, the XC60 marks a handsome new crossover offering that slots beneath the XC90. It’s also the first Volvo fully designed over current style boss Steve Mattin.
Part of the PR spin on the XC60 is that it’s something larger for the style conscious buyer who might want a C30 hatchback but finds the 3-door too small. In other words, there are bold elements beyond just the exterior lines and more animated Volvo emblem on the front grille. Inside, seats with an X theme can be had with partial yellow leather, while the now-trademark Volvo center stack is slightly now tilted toward the driver.
Several styles of XC60 were shown in Switzerland, from the more conservative brown metallic XC60 with handsome aluminum/wood interior trim and beige/brown leather combo to the sporting with more bold exterior colors with aluminum accents and aforementioned yellow leather on the inside.
The XC60 enters a hot segment, but also one that is growing more and more crowded by the hour. Handsome looks should help the car, though so too would some state-of-the-art new drivetrains such as Volvo’s Euro-only diesels, a hybrid or even something with direct injection as seen on Ford’s new EcoBoost engine family. Nevertheless, there’s plenty of interest in the car, from consumers to even GM’s own Bob Lutz and Rick Wagoner who we spotted eyeing up the XC60 at the Volvo stand.
Word from Volvo representatives is that the XC60 will hit the US market early in calendar year 2009 and T6 will be the standard engine option. Pricing has yet to be announced and further model and trim availability details are expected when the crossover sees its US debut next week at the New York Auto Show.
Elsewhere on the Volvo stand, a single XC70 displayed the next round of special Volvo Ocean Race Edition models to coincide with this year’s nautical enduro of the same name. Each of the vehicles include accenting silver aluminum trim on the outside, leather stitching on the bolsters inspired by an ocean waves, a unique wheel design and more. The trademark blue hue of the cars is joined this year by silver versions as well. Europe will get XC90, XC70 and V70 versions, while America will get the XC90 and XC70 only.
For those as into fashion as cars, the Volvo Ocean Race exhibit also revealed a new marketing partner for Volvo. While Musto made most Volvo Ocean Race gear in the past, the Puma brand has become the main supplier for this year’s race. A host of stylish new offerings were on display.
The next auto show on the calendar is just one week away in New York. Alongside North American spec versions of the XC60, expect Volvo to also pull the wraps off of a T6 version of the XC70.
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