SHARE THIS ARTICLE

The XC70 embodies all that has made Volvo the worldwide leader in premium wagons. It combines unparalleled versatility, longevity, comfort and handling without compromising Volvo's long tradition of quality, advanced safety design and durability. The XC70's burly good looks and all-weather capability changed the way people look at wagons. Designed from the beginning to appeal to the rugged individual in all of us, the Volvo XC70 is a perfect fit for those seeking an active-lifestyle vehicle.



Situation

• The XC70 helped define the 'crossover' segment, when it first hit the American road
o "Crossover" - defined as the combination of a traditional wagon and an Sports Utility Vehicle
• XC70 primary competition, the Audi A6 Allroad, has been dropped in the U.S. Market
• The all-new Volvo XC70 shares architecture, technology and craftsmanship with the all-new Volvo S80
o This is the third generation XC70 (the first generation launched in 1997, and the second in 2000)
• Global production targets will average 38,000 cars, annually
o The all-new Volvo XC70 will be built at the Torslanda plant in Göteborg, Sweden
o Production start - May 2007 (for European distribution, initially).
• By far, the main market for the all-new XC70 is the USA (more than 50% of the forecasted volume)
o U.S. sales start is October, 2007
Notes: All-new Volvo XC70…
• Comes with an entirely new exterior and interior design, enhanced capability and ruggedness, yet achieves a heightened sense of Scandinavian luxury and sophistication and 'hi-tech' integration – promotes true individualism
• Rolls out with a new, stronger side structure
• Features, for the first time, 6-cylinder engine: the all-new 3.2 liter, 235 hp inline six
• Shares architecture, technologies and craftsmanship with the top-of-the-line all-new S80 sedan
• Can be optionally equipped with Collision warning and brake support [first seen on S80]
• Aims to be the safest car in its segment (with advanced and further developed preventive and protection systems), AND features improved child safety with extended IC (Inflatable Curtain) and integrated booster cushions – a world breakthrough
(NOTE: optional on XC70)
• Provides high level of personal security – now also with laminated windows all round and a lockable storage unit in luggage compartment.

Business
2007 Production Totals
Projected 16,000

Top markets for all-new XC70
USA, Sweden and China (in that order)

Pricing
USA – MSRP: $36,775 Destination Charges: $745

Leading the list of changes for 2007 are standard Dynamic Stability Traction Control (DSTC) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). On the outside, the XC70 gains redesigned mirrors with integrated turn signals. For added convenience, the turn signals flash three times when the driver lightly presses on the turn signal stalk. Sixteen-inch “Xenia” alloy wheels also become standard this year.

The XC70 continues to be offered in a single well-equipped model. Customers can enhance the luxury, appearance and versatility by selecting among three option packages and a number of stand-alone options. The popular Convenience Package receives new watch-dial instruments, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass and rear park assist.

A dual screen rear seat entertainment system is a new stand-alone option that turns the XC70 into a mobile theater. Seventeen-inch “Oreander” alloy wheels also can be specified. And so can Bi-Xenon headlights that receive a new “Active” feature. A mini-processor gathers data to optimize the beam pattern. The headlight beams automatically swivel up to 15 degrees for improved nighttime visibility.

All-Wheel Drive with Instant Traction™ mates with the XC70’s 2.5-liter turbocharged engine for positive, instantaneous torque and optimum launch performance. The computer-controlled Haldex all-wheel-drive system instantly delivers up to 50 percent more torque to the rear axle only when needed, such as during takeoff.

Instant Traction features a one-way pre-charging valve that maintains a torque load of 59 foot-pounds, which is available instantly. Torque can be transferred directly, without any speed difference. There is no need for the driver to worry about engaging the system. It’s all done automatically and seamlessly.

As a Volvo wagon, the XC70 is fitted with state-of-the-art safety features. Among them are standard Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) with side airbags and Inflatable Curtain (IC), Whiplash Protection Seating System (WHIPS), seat belts with pyrotechnic pretensioners in all seating positions, dual-stage front airbags (SRS), Volvo’s safety cage construction and the ISO-FIX attachment for child safety seats. Of course, ABS with traction control, four-wheel-independent suspension and responsive rack and pinion steering are also standard.

The XC70 masterfully blends the best attributes of a Volvo premium wagon with the all-road, all-weather capabilities of a four-season adventure vehicle. In keeping with this theme, it’s dressed with jewel-like headlamps and tail lamps, aluminum front and read skid plates, roof rails and an “eggcrate” grille. Robust front and rear bumpers, overfenders and lower rocker panel cladding are shod in rugged Stone Gray or Brown.




If you miss the Audi All-Road, this may be your next car

About the Author

Agent001