First pics of the upcoming Volvo XC50?

Though presently in the development stages, from what we've heard Volvo is planning on introducing either a new, small SUV based on the Land Rover Freelander platform, or a little brother to the XC70 based on their new V50. Either way this new model will be part of the successful Cross Country line-up and is expected to be called the XC50. We're sure Volvo won't disappoint!

The photos shown on this page are from Volvo's Concept Lab department. Though nobody's saying whether or not these images accurately represent what the XC50 will look like, it sounds like it will be designed to become a competitor to BMW's recently introduced X3.

Full article here

Matthew1 - 3/28/2006 11:08:25 PM

+1 Boost

When penning a new model, car design studios come up with a series of clay models, then evaluate which is the best one to develop further. This decision is usually made by senior management and head of design.

Car design is very hush hush, which is why manufacturers put a lot of effort into camouflage when testing development cars. While car companies do not wish to reveal development photos such as clay models until the launch of the vehicle in question, modern technology such as camera phones has meant keeping designs under wraps is becoming increasingly difficult.

I do believe this photo is of an early clay concept, as is in no way an accurate indication of the new XC50. However, don't be surprised if the pronounced body creases and lack of the Volvo 'shoulder' finds its way onto new Volvo cars.

adambravo - 3/29/2006 10:56:05 AM

+1 Boost

This is a scale model shown at the New York Auto show about four years ago. It is so woefully out of date that referring to it as "first pic of the XC50" is rather embarrassing.