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The 2008 Volvo C70 sees a slight horsepower increase, up from 218 to 227. The car’s interior also gets a few upgrades, with new wood accents, a leather steering wheel and gearshift knob, and redesigned air vents.

Introduction

The Volvo C70 got its start in the late 1990s and was one of the first models to break out of the Swedish brand’s stodgy image and into territory occupied by truly stylish cars with sleek, sensuous lines. Initially available as both a convertible and a coupe, the C70′s lineup was soon narrowed to include just a convertible. Unfortunately, the car’s charm was marred by the fact that its antiquated underpinnings made it a lot less fun to drive than similarly priced competitors. Volvo placed the C70 on a brief hiatus and then redesigned it from top to bottom for 2006.

With the Volvo C70′s overhaul came a new body structure based on the current S40 sedan, handsome exterior styling and the addition of a three-piece retractable roof that elegantly assembles itself with the grace of an Arabian veil dancer. Once the hardtop is in place, this convertible in essence becomes a coupe, tightly sealed against the elements. Unlike some other convertibles, the Volvo C70 doesn’t confine, with ample top-up headroom for those who stand north of 6 feet. Visibility is another pleasant surprise, with lean rear pillars offering good sight lines for reversing drivers. The 2008 Volvo C70 is just as agreeable with the top down, thanks to minimal wind buffeting. It’s also one of the safest convertibles on the market, as it’s equipped with side curtain airbags that deploy when the top is lowered. To accomplish this feat, Volvo mounted the airbags in the doors.

But alas, all isn’t perfect in Volvo C70 Land. Though the car elicits more warm sparks than its predecessor, it’s hampered by its unimpressive turbocharged inline-5. Handling is competent but hardly energetic. If pep and performance rank high on your list, you’ll want to shift your attention to the more pleasurable (though more expensive) BMW 3 Series convertible. Volkswagen’s Eos is another interesting alternative, given its very similar demeanor and lower price. Still, with its noteworthy trunk space and outstanding safety features, the 2008 Volvo C70 excels as a reasonably family-friendly choice for those in search of a sexy drop top that doesn’t sacrifice versatility.

Price: $39,240 – 39,240.
Invoice: $36,885 – 36,885.

Driving Impressions

Acceleration is hardly mind-blowing, but the 2008 Volvo C70′s turbocharged engine offers enough low-end torque to efficiently hustle the car from a stop. On the move, the car’s body’s structure is rigid and stays flex-free when driven over bumps. The suspension is softly tuned, and the easy-to-drive C70 makes for a pleasing highway or boulevard-cruising companion. But pushed harder, the C70 is an unwilling partner due to uninspiring handling dynamics, numb steering and noticeable brake fade after miles of fast driving.

Interior Design and Special Features

Activate the retractable roof and the C70′s dual-hinged trunk lid opens in a reverse motion and the roof pieces arc backward and stack inside the trunk. Overall, the process is rather seamless, though it does take a longish 30 seconds to complete. With the top up, there are a generous 12.8 cubic feet available for your gear. Top down, you’re left with 6 cubic feet of trunk volume, however.

Most people will find the C70′s front seats extremely comfortable. Legroom is tight for those in the rear, but it should be adequate for children and smaller adults. Fluid and graceful Swedish good looks abound in the C70′s cabin; its lines are free of clutter, and highlights include a center stack that undulates with a ribbon’s clean grace. Still, the C70 has a fair amount of cheap-looking plastics — troubling for a car in this price range.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options

The 2008 Volvo C70 is a luxury convertible with a retractable hardtop design. Volvo keeps things simple by offering just one trim level, the T5. Standard features include 17-inch wheels, a power-retractable hardtop, cloth upholstery, eight-way power front seats (with driver memory), automatic dual-zone climate control, full power accessories, heated outside mirrors and an eight-speaker audio system with a six-CD changer and auxiliary audio input.

Buyers can beef up the C70′s content with a quartet of packages. Choose the Premium Package for goodies like leather seats, a compass and HomeLink. The Climate Package gives you heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers and headlamp washers. Pick the Convenience Package and get rear park assist, keyless start, power retractable side mirrors, a cabin air filtration system and Volvo’s blind spot information system (BLIS) — with BLIS, indicator lights issue a warning if a vehicle enters your blind spot. Make the most of your music by outfitting your C70 with the Dynaudio Package; it offers a 14-speaker Dolby ProLogic II premium sound system with 910 watts and two subwoofers. Stand-alone options include a navigation system, 18-inch wheels, satellite radio and bi-HID xenon headlights.

Powertrains and Performance

Powering the C70 is a turbocharged, 2.5-liter, inline five-cylinder engine. It’s good for 227 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque, with power sent to the front wheels via a standard six-speed manual transmission. Those who’d rather not shift their own gears can go for the optional five-speed automatic. With a manual transmission, the C70 gets 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Automatic-equipped C70s get an 18/26 mpg rating.

Safety

This being a Volvo, safety is paramount. Standard safety features include antilock brakes, traction control and stability control. Side airbags are also provided, along with special door-mounted, head-protecting side curtain airbags; these are capable of protecting front occupants even when the top is down. In the event of a rollover accident, rollover bars mounted behind the seats automatically deploy for maximum safety. Anti-whiplash seats are also offered as standard equipment. Volvo’s BLIS is available as an option.

The Volvo S80 is now available wîth the six-cylinder, 285 hp T6 performance engine wîth All Wheel Drive that was first introduced in the all-new Volvo V70 in March 2007. Another new power train combination for the S80 is the 185 D5 turbo diesel wîth AWD. ‘The T6 engine adds an extra dimension to the S80 engine range,’ says Hans Wikman, Vice President Vehicle Line Large Cars at Volvo Cars. ‘The engine has been programmed to provide the highest possible performance wîth the lowest possible fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.’ The T6 petrol engine is based on the compact 3.2-litre in-line aluminium engine that has been part of the S80 engine range since the introduction in March 2006.

The turbo version has a displacement of 3.0 litres, producing 210 kW (285 hp) and no less than 400 Nm of torque. Maximum torque is on tap from just 1,500 rpm and remains available all the way up the rev range, resulting in remarkably quick acceleration and smooth driveability (0-100 km/h in 7.2 seconds – preliminary figure). The somewhat smaller cylinder displacement of the turbo version, owing to the slightly narrower cylinder bore and shorter stroke, is compensated by the turbocharger which in this engine takes in exhaust gases in two stages, wîth the inflow divided into two lots of three cylinders each, a system known as twin-scroll technology.

Twin-scroll technology permits use of a more compact and uncomplicated turbocharger and provides extremely swift response, fully on a par wîth that from twin turbochargers. The T6 model in the Volvo S80 is equipped wîth Volvo’s All Wheel Drive. Úsing an electronically controlled hydraulic clutch, the AWD system distributes drive between the front and rear wheels to ensure the best possible road grip in all situations. The system features Instant Traction, which shifts drive at lightning speed from the front to the rear wheels when starting on a slippery or loose surface.

The five-cylinder D5 turbo diesel can also be combined wîth All Wheel Drive in the the Volvo S80. The powerful and easy to drive D5 offers 136 kW (185 hp) and no less than 400 Nm of torque – and it does so across a particularly wide rev range. The new D5 engine features an electronically controlled turbocharger, advanced multi-point injection technology and a particularly powerful engine management system. The driving experience provides far high performance and the driveability and traction are now further enhanced by the All Wheel Drive system wîth Instant Traction. A service-free particle filter is standard, making the D5 a highly eco-efficient alternative.

Price: $38,705 – 49,210.
Invoice: $36,380 – 45,765.

Now Volvo Cars introduces Driver Alert Control – wîth a technology solution that is a world-first in passenger cars. The system aims to alert the driver when his or her concentration level is affected, for instance during long journeys. Another new system, Lane Departure Warning, alerts the driver if the car crosses one of the road markings without an obvious reason. Lane Departure Warning and Driver Alert Control will be part of the same option package, called Driver Alert System. It will be available in the Volvo S80, V70 and XC70 at the end of 2007.

‘Real life safety is the key to our safety philosophy. When it comes to preventive safety, we have the same approach as when we develop protective systems. In other words that our research and technical development focus on areas where new technology can create significant results in real-life-traffic,’ says Ingrid Skogsmo, Director of the Volvo Cars Safety Centre. Based on the accident statistics above, Volvo Cars is focusing on developing efficient technology to help drivers avoid or reduce the severity of accidents caused by distraction and driver fatigue.

As a result of extensive studies on how drivers operate behind the wheel, Volvo has developed Driver Alert Control – a world-first innovation that registers the car’s progress on the road and alerts unconcentrated drivers. Driver fatigue is a major traffic-safety problem the world over. According to the Ú.S. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), drivers who fall asleep at the wheel cause about 100,000 accidents annually in the Únited States alone, resulting in 1,500 fatalities and more than 70,000 injured drivers and passengers.

The situation is similar in Europe. The German Insurance Association GDV estimates that about 25 percent of all fatal accidents on the German Autobahn are caused by driver fatigue. Volvo’s Driver Alert Control is an important innovation. It is primarily intended for situations where the risk of losing concentration is the greatest and where an accident would have severe consequences. For example a straight, smooth road that lulls the driver into a sense of relaxation and where the risk of distracting activities or falling asleep is higher. The system steps in at 65 km/h and stays active as long as the speed exceeds 60 km/h.

Driver Alert Control monitors the car’s movements and assesses whether the vehicle is being driven in a controlled or uncontrolled way. This method is unique among vehicle manufacturers and is very reliable. ‘We do not monitor human behaviour – which varies from one person to another – but instead the effect that fatigue or decreased concentration has on driving behaviour. Our system is based on the car’s progress on the road. It gives a reliable indication if something is likely to go wrong and alerts the driver before it is too late,’ explains Daniel Levin, project manager for Driver Alert Control at Volvo Cars. He adds:

‘We often get questions about why we have chosen this concept instead of monitoring the driver’s eyes. The answer is that we don’t think that the technology of monitoring the driver’s eyes is mature enough yet.’ Driver Alert Control can also cover situations where the driver is focusing too much on his/her cell phone or children in the car, thereby not having full control of the vehicle. ‘This is a positive side-effect of our concept, and this is possible since the system evaluates driving behaviour rather than human behaviour,’ says Daniel Levin.

On ÚS Highways, single-vehicle road departures account for approximately one fourth of all accidents and one third of all fatalities, statistics that emphasize the risk of losing concentration in smooth driving conditions. Volvo Cars addresses this by introducing Lane Departure Warning. The system helps prevent single-vehicle road departure accidents as well as head-on collisions due to temporary distraction.

Volvo Cars’ researchers estimate that the LDW system can help prevent 30-40 percent of these types of accidents at speeds between 70 and 100 km/h. LDW is activated via a button on the centre stack and it alerts the driver wîth a gentle warning sound if the car crosses one of the road markings without an obvious reason such as use of the turn indicator. The system also uses a camera to monitor the car’s position between the road markings. LDW steps in at 65 km/h and stays active as long as the speed exceeds 60 km/h.

Volvo’s V50 sportswagon has been given a comprehensive update for 2008 wîth revised exterior and interior styling, new safety features and enhanced storage and versatility. Inspired by the redesigned V70 family wagon, the V50 gains a new front fascia, egg-crate grille wîth a 50 percent larger Ironmark badge, redesigned headlamps and full-width lower air intake. Evolutionary changes continue at the rear, wîth slimmer taillights equipped wîth LED brake lights, restyled bumper and bright tailgate molding.

With its revolutionary interior design, class-leading safety, powerful 5-cylinder engines and available all-wheel drive, Volvo’s most attainable sportswagon is the ideal companion for young, active families on the go. Yet the Volvo V50 is a genuine premium car that can be equipped wîth many features available on larger Volvos.

All models are fitted wîth the new Automatic Hazard Warning system. Should any of the V50′s airbags be deployed, the hazard lights will automatically be activated to attract the attention of other motorists. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is now standard, while Volvo’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is a new option available on all models. New Active Bi-Xenon headlights that swivel the light beam in continuous synch wîth §teering direction are available for T5 models.

Price: $26,815 – 31,565.
Invoice: $25,205 – 29,670.

The V50′s signature ultra-slim console offers a new look for 2008. For the first time, Nordic Light Oak wood inlays can be specified for the cabin of the V50 2.4i as part of the Select Package. Aluminum inlays remain standard on the V50 T5 and V50 T5 AWD. These models gain redesigned instrumentation wîth sporty watch dial gauges. The V50′s redesigned floor console features increased storage space, a more compact handbrake and a revised armrest for greater driver comfort.

A choice of powertrains gives each V50 model a distinct character. A normally aspirated 5-cylinder engine that produces 168-horsepower motivates the V50. Boosting the fun factor, horsepower for the T5 high-pressure turbocharged engine is increased from 218 hp to 227 hp. All V50s are equipped wîth a 5-speed ‘Geartronic’ automatic transmission wîth ‘Auto-stick’ function.

The V50 provides confidence-inspiring performance wîth each powerplant. An extremely rigid platform affords levels of §teering precision and suspension nimbleness found in the top vehicles in its class. Advanced braking, §teering and chassis systems enable the V50 to feel secure in its capabilities across a broad spectrum of driving conditions.

In the V50, Volvo continues its groundbreaking use of high-tensile steel. In the front structure, four different grades of steel are used in an intelligent interplay to provide maximum safety for the car’s occupants.

Side impact protection is addressed by the use of extremely rigid cross members that form a 3-way attachment between the leading edge of the A-pillar and the base of the B-pillar. Similar cross members are found in the rear doors as well. This system of energy absorption, along wîth the slim-design 5-cylinder engines is called Volvo’s Intelligent Vehicle Architecture (VIVA), representing an innovative approach to vehicle safety design.

Volvo is finally coming to grips with the fact that the brand doesn’t stretch much beyond wagons. Reflecting this new/old reality, rumors abound that Volvo’s about to axe their range-topping S80 sedan in favor of an upmarket V100 wagon. Add in a recent Consumer Reports’ study showing that American consumers still rate Volvo number one for safety, and you begin to understand the importance of the new V70 wagon. As wagons are what keeps Volvo’s ost on their smorgasbord, “getting it right” was essential. So, did they? In the last 10 years, Volvo has gone from Ugly Betty to Swedish beauty. Since 1998, every Volvo model has been bred from the same DNA: restrained styling, sexy hips and hood creases culminating in a grill with the classic Volvo sash. Thankfully, the new V70 has all the requisite shapes, excepting the sloping rear windscreen.

Despite the looks, the V70 is all-new. The hauler is now based on the flagship S80 sedan instead of the mid-sized S60. The larger overall car is also equipped with considerably better interior bits. While the cheaper Volvos’ interiors look like IKEA specials, there’s nothing cheap about the new V70’s interior. Our Euro-spec tester was swathed in matte finish wood trim and light grey “Sovereign hide” leather, which rivals the luxury feel of [former] PAG mates Jaguar and Aston Martin’s bovine wrappers. Sadly, North American buyers can’t get premium cow, and someone in Sweden figured ventilated seats were more important in the Arctic Circle than the tropical American south. Anyway, all the V70’s seats are supportive and comfortable for long trips.

The wagon’s glove-friendly knobs and switches are placed in the usual logical locations. The now ubiquitous floating centre stack is along for the ride. While the cute cubby behind it will accommodate a few very small oddly sized nick-knacks, out of sight also means out of mind. Speaking of mindless, the V70 gets the new for 2008 keyless start system. As the alternative is the oddly located fob-slot in the dash– which makes your keys bang against the dashboard at gauge level– it’s $500 well spent. Regardless of continent, all buyers get Volvo’s new two-stage child booster seats with redesigned curtain airbags. After thorough testing with two kids in the proper weight bracket (33-80 lbs), I can certify that the new feature protects adult sanity when struggling to get multiple progeny onboard.

At the back end, Volvo continues to put hauling stuff at the top of their design priority list. Inside the power operated tailgate lie enough organizing options to keep Detective Monk busy for hours (if not an eternity). There are grocery bag holders, cargo dividers, rails with load hooks, nets, straps and locking compartments. The 40/20/40 split rear seats fold flat easily. As with all Volvos, the front passenger seat also bows down to the gods of goods; loading a 10ft ladder or a full-size grandfather’s clock is a breeze. Volvo’s silky smooth 3.0-liter six-cylinder T6 turbo engine purred under the hood of our Euro-tester. The mill cranks out 285hp and 295 ft.-lbs. of torque. It’s mated to a six- speed slushbox and Haldex AWD (all wheel-drive) system. The V70’s 6.7 second zero to sixty sprint time feels quicker in person, due to the plateau-like torque curve, despite its decidedly porky 4100 pound curb weight.

Price: $32,465 – 32,465.
Invoice: $30,515 – 30,515.

The V70 AWD system’s “instant traction” feature assures zero torque steer for European buyers. Yes, yet again American shoppers get shafted: both the T6 engine and AWD system are Euro only options. On this side of the pond you must satisfy yourself with the 235hp 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine, endure torque steer and grow old as you attempt to reach 60 from a standstill (7.8 seconds). Out on twisty roads, the V70 feels almost nimble. The car’s front heavy nature is abundantly evident through the corners, but the cornering limit is surprisingly high. Equally important, steering feel is excellent. And when things do break loose the electronic nannies rein you back to a safer angle of attack. The Euro-only active suspension proves a faithful companion, eliminating any signs of wallow, tip or dive.

It affords GTI-stiff dampeners at the corners for that race from the daycare to work.While the V70 isn’t as dynamically satisfying as a BMW 5-series wagon or as luxurious as a Mercedes E-Class estate, the V70 is nevertheless an excellent competitor in this niche market… If you live in Europe. In fact, this is the perfect example of sending the wrong models to the wrong places. The 20.3 T6 model is too thirsty for Europe. But as a base engine in North America? Perfect. And while we’re at it, where’s OUR luxe leather, AWD and active suspension? Until Volvo gets their product placement strategy is corrected, they’ll remain a niche player, good wagon or not.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options

The 2008 Volvo V70 midsize wagon comes in one trim level. Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, front and rear foglights, power heated mirrors, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver seat with memory, a tilt-telescoping wheel, a 40/20/40-split-folding rear seat, two dual-height integrated child booster seats and an eight-speaker stereo with six-CD changer and auxiliary audio jack.

The Premium Package includes leather upholstery, a sunroof, a power passenger seat, real wood trim and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass. The Climate Package adds heated front seats, heated headlamp washers and rain-sensing wipers. The Convenience Package will get you front and rear parking assist, a power tailgate and an interior air quality system. Stand-alone options include 17-inch wheels, active bi-xenon headlamps, a DVD navigation system with pop-up screen, keyless ignition/entry, satellite radio, a rear seat entertainment system, blind spot warning system and adaptive cruise control with collision warning. Bluetooth and iPod connectivity are dealer-installed options.

Interior

Without the optional Premium Package and its leather and wood trim, the V70 can feel a little somber. However, like other recent Volvos, the V70′s cabin is a model of modern Swedish design. Minimalist style is showcased throughout, especially with the “floating” waterfall center stack and its straightforward controls. There’s nothing straightforward about the optional navigation system, which oddly features stalk-mounted controls, a hand-held remote control and a screen that pops out of the dash top. The V70′s seats are excellent, achieving a blend of body-soothing comfort and body-holding support. The backseat is also comfortable and is set apart by a 40/20/40-split-folding seatback and a pair of height-adjustable integrated child booster seats. Prepped for cargo, the V70 can hold 71 cubic feet of stuff.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2008 Volvo V70 is powered by a 3.2-liter inline-6 that produces 235 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic with manual shift control is standard. The V70 is only available in front-wheel drive, so those interested in all-wheel drive must opt for the closely related XC70 crossover wagon. Volvo claims the V70 will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds. Fuel economy is disappointing at 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, which is nearly equal to several large crossover SUVs that offer similar acceleration and much more interior space.

Safety

No Volvo would be complete without a full complement of safety features, and the V70 is no exception. Traction and stability control, front side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, active front head restraints, power childproof door locks and two integrated two-stage child booster seats with adaptive seatbelts are standard. There are several optional safety systems including a collision warning system, vehicle distance alert, blind spot warning system and a lane departure system. There is also the Personal Car Communicator included with keyless ignition entry, which sends a warning to the key fob should the car detect the heartbeat of an intruder inside the vehicle.

Driving Impressions

With its soft, forgiving suspension, the 2008 Volvo V70 provides a smooth, isolated ride on all surfaces. Sharp handling isn’t in the V70′s repertoire, but light steering and a relatively small size make for easier maneuvering than a much larger crossover SUV. Acceleration from the six-cylinder is adequate, but other premium midsize wagons and crossovers are quicker still.

With revised exterior and interior styling, new safety features and enhanced storage and versatility, the S40 premium compact sedan moves boldly into the 2008 model year. Drawing its inspiration from Volvo’s flagship S80, the S40 receives a new front fascia, egg crate grille sporting a 50 percent larger Ironmark badge, redesigned headlamps and full-width lower air intake. At the rear, new LED taillights, bumper and trunk lid handle complete the visual makeover. Expanding the already lengthy roster of standard safety features is new Automatic Hazard Warning. Should any of the S40′s airbags be deployed, the hazard lights will automatically be activated to attract the attention of other motorists. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is now standard, while Volvo’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is a new option available on all models. Active Bi-Xenon headlights that swivel the light beam in continuous synch wîth §teering direction is a new option for T5 models.

The ultra-slim center console that made its world debut on the S40 has become an icon of Volvo’s progressive interior design. Redesigned floor console features increased storage space, a more compact handbrake and a revised armrest for greater driver comfort. Nordic Light Oak wood inlays can now be specified for the cabin of the S40 2.4i as part of the Select Package. Aluminum inlays remain standard on the S40 T5 and S40 T5 AWD. These models gain redesigned instrumentation wîth sporty watch dial style gauges. An auxiliary input wîth MP3 capability, now standard on all models, has been repositioned under the center armrest for greater ease of use. A high performance audio system and Sirius satellite radio wîth a complimentary six-month subscription is standard on T5 models. Audiophiles will delight in the new Dynaudio® Package that puts out 650 watts through 12 speakers. The Volvo Navigation system wîth DVD map data and remote control remains optional.

In the S40, Volvo continues its groundbreaking use of high-tensile steel. In the front structure, four different grades of steel are used in an intelligent interplay to provide maximum safety for the car’s occupants. Side impact protection is addressed by the use of extremely rigid cross members that form a 3-way attachment between the leading edge of the A-pillar and the base of the B-pillar. Similar cross members are found in the rear doors as well. This system of energy absorption, along wîth the slim-design 5-cylinder engines is called Volvo’s Intelligent Vehicle Architecture (VIVA), representing an innovative approach to vehicle safety design.

Price: $24,365 – 30,365.
Invoice: $22,900 – 28,545.

Packing a lot into a compact sedan, the Volvo S40 features numerous safety features, mostly standard, and luxurious detail into its compact package. Enjoying several popular years in Europe the US sales began in 2000 following Ford’s acquisition of Volvo. For 2004 the Volvo S40 was updated once again with the addition of a more generous interior along with enhanced safety features.

Entry-level luxury vehicles/ compact executive cars, the Volvo S40, V40 and V50 are produced by Volvo cars. The first generation was launched in 1995, while the second followed in 2004. The second generation has been listed by Forbes as one of the best luxury vehicles for young affluent drivers. According to J.D. Power and Associates it is also the most popular car among women in the luxury segment in the US market. The S40 saloon, (sedan) and V50 estate (station wagon) were introduced during the summer of 1998. Built in the Netherlands, the cars were produced at the NedCar factory which was a pre-Ford joint venture between Volvo and Mitsubishi Motors. Though the Japanese version did not sell as well as in Europe, the S40 was based on a common platform with the Mitsubishi Carisma.

For 2000 the 40 series was updated and featured a variety of technical improvements simultaneously introduced and those included improved engine management, additional safety features, larger brake disc, direct fuel injection, new front suspension and steering, updated rear suspension, larger tires and a slight widening of the track width. The only engine available in North America was the 1.9-liter. Equipped with four-cylinder engines, the 40 series came with a 1.9 L diesel or 1.6, 1.8, or 2.0-liter fuel injected gasoline engines with low and high pressure turbo variants at the top of the motor range. Trim levels in the UK were base, SE and CD. The first vehicle to earn four stars in Euro-NCAP was the Volvo S40.

Debuting during the middle of the 2004 model year, the second generation S40 featured a new design that was based on the Volvo P1 platform built at the Volvo Cars factory in Ghent, Belgium. The V40 was replaced by the V50 estate in this same year. For 2005 the Volvo S40 was nominated for the World Car of the Year award and also won the Canadian Car of the Year Best New Sport Compact Award. For the same year the S40 was also elected as the South African Car of the Year by the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists.

Wile the majority of its components along with its chassis were developed by Volvo, very similar mechanical components can be found on the European Ford Focus and the Mazda3. The latest generation of Volvo’s 5 cylinder engines, a 2.5L 5-cylinder had been continually developed by Volvo since the debut of the engines in the 850 in 1993. The 2.4, 2.4i and the top of the line S40 T5 AWD continues to be made by Volvo. The AWD system is bought from Haldex of Sweden while the transmission is developed through GETRAG of Germany.

One of several variants of the S40, the S40 T5 features a 2.5 L five-cylinder fuel injection with a light-pressure turbocharger. A DOHC design, the valvetrain has four valves per cylinder. Following in the tradition of the first generation, the engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle and drives the front wheels.

For the 2008 model year the Volvo S40 was updated and now featured a sporty new look along with updated premium feel. Newly updated audio systems were showcased, along with rapidly growing storage space in the new S40. New safety features that included Emergency Brake Lights which flash rapidly during hard braking to alert traffic behind the vehicle was now added. Optional Active Bi-Xenon headlights which point the light beam in the direction of the road as it curves, was also added.

Now achieving an output of 227 hp, the T5 engine received a performance increase of 9 hp. Halfway through the 2007 the D5 engine became available with a manual gearbox now offering 400 Nm of torque instead of the automatic transmission’s 350 Nm. While the current S40 is based on the C30, the new S40 will be based on the new C2 platform.

According to Volvo’s design philosophy, making a car easy to understand and use is just as important as styling its surface. If the product is not functional, it can’t be beautiful. Building upon that axiom, the S60 gains more standard equipment for 2008 while its roster of available option packages has been streamlined for simplicity. The S60 T5 is now fitted wîth standard leather sport seating, power glass sunroof, compass in the rearview mirror, Satellite Radio prep, 5-speed ‘Geartronic’ transmission and 17-inch silver bright diamond cut ‘Cassiopeia’ wheels. All S60 variants gain standard auxiliary input and MP3 capability plus standard WMA CD readability. A higher, more premium level of packaged equipment is offered. For example, on the S60 2.5T and 2.5T AWD, the new Advanced Package includes popular features such as a Premium sound system wîth in-dash 6-disc CD player, rear park assist, aluminum inlays and Volvo’s Interior Air Quality System (IAQS).

Selecting the Advanced Package for the T5 gains Active Bi-Xenon headlamps that employ a mini-processor to gather data and optimize the beam pattern. The headlamp beams can be turned up to 15 degrees in either direction. A rear spoiler and brushed aluminum door handles and trunk moldings are also included. New to the Volvo lineup, a luxurious Imola two-tone leather interior can be specified for the T5 wîth the Advanced Package at no additional charge. Last year, the S60 received a new grille, front bumper, redesigned front spoiler for better aerodynamics and a more aggressive appearance plus new outside mirrors wîth integrated turn signals. For added convenience, these automatically flash three times wîth light pressure on the turn signal stalk.

The S60′s sporty driving character was also enhanced at that time. The standard chassis received firmer front and rear shock absorbers and springs wîth increased torsional rigidity by about 25 percent. Anti-rolls bars were made sturdier and supported by solid bushings. These changes work together to promote a harmonious balance between reassuring road manners and supple ride comfort. In the Volvo tradition, the S60 benefits from a comprehensive array of safety features. All models are equipped wîth Dynamic Stability Traction Control (DSTC) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The list continues wîth standard Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) wîth side airbags and Inflatable Curtain (IC), Whiplash Protection Seating System (WHIPS), seat belts wîth pyrotechnic pretensioners in all seating positions, dual-stage front airbags (SRS), Volvo’s safety cage construction and the ISO-FIX attachment for rearward-facing child safety seats.

Price: $30,975 – 33,985.
Invoice: $29,115 – 31,945.

All-Wheel Drive wîth Instant TractionTM is standard on the S60 2.5T AWD. It mates wîth the 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. Volvo has been a pioneer and leader in the turbocharging of family cars for more than a quarter of a century. Thus, all S60 models are turbocharged. Three versions of the versatile S60 sport sedan are offered for 2008: the S60 2.5T, S60 2.5T AWD and S60 T5. The limited-production run of the high-performance S60 R ended wîth the conclusion of the 2007 model year.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options

A midsize entry-level luxury sedan, the 2008 Volvo S60 comes in three trim levels — base 2.5T, 2.5T AWD and the more powerful T5. The 2.5T comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, a power driver seat with memory, dual-zone automatic climate control (with a pollen filter), an audio system with CD player and auxiliary audio jack, a telescoping steering wheel and faux wood interior accents. As its name implies, the 2.5T AWD adds all-wheel drive.

Stepping up to the S60 T5 provides a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, a power passenger seat and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Options, which mostly come bundled in packages, include an excellent 13-speaker Dolby sound system with an in-dash CD changer, a navigation system, Bluetooth, Sirius Satellite Radio, heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers and an interior air quality system (which monitors contaminant levels in incoming air and closes the vents as necessary). Eighteen-inch wheels and a two-tone interior are available on the T5.

Interior

The Volvo S60′s interior is functional but doesn’t feel upscale unless you order the leather upholstery and Dolby Surround Sound options. The controls are nicely weighted, but the pictograms depicting the various functions can be difficult to understand at first. There is seating for five, and although front occupants will bask in the comfort of the Volvo’s orthopedically designed seats, rear passengers will likely find the legroom tight. Trunk space measures just under 14 cubic feet, and the rear seat folds in a 60/40 split on all trims.

Powertrains and Performance

The S60 2.5T has a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder rated for 208 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard with this engine, and it routes power either to the front wheels or all four on the all-wheel-drive (2.5T AWD) model.

The S60 T5 has a slightly smaller 2.4-liter inline-5 but uses a higher-boost turbocharger, helping it produce 257 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T5 is front-wheel-drive only and comes with a five-speed automatic with a manual-shift mode.

Driving Impressions

The 2008 Volvo S60 2.5T offers adequate power for most drivers, while the T5 model is quicker but heavy on turbo lag off the line. Both S60s provide a ride that veers more toward comfort than sport, but they aren’t as composed as similarly priced rivals over bumps and expansion joints. Handling is competent but limits are modest. S60s are known for their strong brakes, and they indeed exhibit impressive stopping ability.

Safety

Antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, anti-submarine seats with whiplash-reducing head restraints and Volvo’s OnCall telematics are all standard. Rear parking assist is optional. In government crash testing, the 2008 Volvo S60 earned four out of five stars for the driver and front passenger in the frontal-impact category. It earned five stars for both front- and rear side-impact protection. In frontal offset crash testing conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Volvo S60 received a “Good” rating overall (the best possible). Side-impact tests resulted in a second-best rating of “Acceptable.”

The all-new Volvo S60, launched at Geneva Motor Show in March 2010 has been sculpted to move you – both physically and emotionally. It has an extrovert attitude never before seen in Volvo showrooms. It is also without a doubt the most dynamic Volvo model so far.

Price: $31,450 – 37,700.
Invoice: $29,563 – 35,438.

Exterior

The all-new S60 is sportier and more dynamic than any previous Volvo. But it is still an unmistakeable representative of Scandinavian design at its best. Virtually all the lines were penned to carve out the ‘coupe wîth four doors’ profile. The C-pillar stretches sensually all the way to the tail lamps – and the slim coupe-like roof line is accompanied by a new contour on the shoulders on either side of the lower body, creating a gentle yet powerful double wave from the headlamps at the front to the tail lamps at the rear.

The all-new Volvo S60 R-Design comes wîth a range of specially developed design details both outside and in. On the inside, the driver and front passenger sit in sports seats in which the backrest from the S60 and V60 is matched by an all-new seat cushion wîth even closer side support than before.

Volvo Cars’ chassis experts have taken the next step on the road to a more and more exciting driving experience. In the R-Design chassis they have sharpened the §teering, the agility and the solid overall impression still further compared wîth the dynamic chassis in the all-new S60. An exterior styling kit gives the customer an opportunity to further enhance the already sporty appearance. The styling kit comes as an accessory. It includes front and rear skid plates, a front deco frame, side scuff plates, exhaust tailpipe finishers and 18-inch alloy wheels.

CHASSIS

The all-new S60 is without a doubt the most dynamic car model Volvo has ever presented. The sedan can be specified wîth a choice of two chassis. On the European market the dynamic chassis is standard, while some other markets will have the touring chassis as standard wîth the dynamic variant available as an option. The difference between the two chassis alternatives is to be found in the dampers and the front and rear sub frames. Here the touring variant has a somewhat softer setting to give a smoother ride on poorer road surfaces.

During the development process, the chassis team carved out a holistic solution featuring changes and refinements for virtually every single detail that influences a car’s driving properties. This includes improved §teering, stiffer springs and bushes as well as more damping than in any previous Volvo. All variants of the new S60 can be specified wîth the advanced, self-adjusting FOÚR-C active chassis. The FOÚR-C active chassis has been modified and refined to suit the dynamic character of the sports sedan. The software in the AWD (All Wheel Drive) system has been modified to allow the four-wheel drive variants (four-wheel drive is standard in the T6 and optional wîth the D5) of the all-new Volvo S60 to exploit the sporty new chassis to the limit.

The S60 is the first sedan model on the market wîth Advanced Stability Control. With a new roll angle sensor, it is possible to identify any skidding tendency at a very early stage. Advanced Stability Control is a great asset in dynamic driving involving considerable lateral forces, thus improving handling and rapid avoidance manoeuvres. Corner Traction Control is a new feature that uses torque vectoring for smoother cornering. When cornering, the car’s inner driven wheel is braked at the same time as more power is transmitted to the outer driven wheel. This allows cornering more tightly while reducing any tendency to understeer.

Interior

Volvo’s designers obtained their inspiration from the racing track as they pursued the uncompromising sportiness inside the all-new S60. The graphic character of the racing track is clearly apparent in the instrument panel and in the doors. Every detail looks like it’s in motion. The instruments and centre stack are angled towards the driver to create a sensation of focus and control. The new dynamic three-spoke §teering wheel and new sports seats wîth extra side supports are standard.. The interior is lavish in terms of its driver-oriented details, but it is still a five-seater offering comfortable space for all its occupants. Beige and black are the main colours of the upholstery range, which is spiced up wîth the new highlight shade Beechwood Brown. The décor inlays are available in Charcoal, Shimmer Graphite aluminium or Úrbane Wood.

Volvo Sensus is an excellent example of how Volvo Cars refines the driver environment. All information is presented on a five-inch or seven-inch colour screen in the upper part of the centre stack. The screen is positioned high up to make it easy for the driver to keep his or hers eyes on the road. All the functions can be controlled via buttons built into the §teering wheel or via touch buttons located just below the colour screen. If the customer chooses a multimedia audio system, Volvo Sensus comes upgraded wîth the larger seven-inch screen that also displays information and images from the navigation system, phone, reversing camera, panorama camera, DVD player, digital TV and so on. The Bluetooth connection has been upgraded to allow not only hands-free phone conversations but also music streaming from a preferred Bluetooth enabled portable music player. Volvo is actually the only brand to offer Bluetooth music streaming throughout the entire vehicle range.

New is also a mobile application that makes sure that the driver can stay in touch wîth the parked car via an iPhone or Android smart phone. The mobile application is an extension of Volvo On Call, which is presently available in 12 European countries plus Russia and Brazil. Now, the system has been reinvented. Owners of all new Volvos from Model Year 2012 wîth Volvo On Call can download the new application that opens up a range of connectivity possibilities. The mobile app is free and downloaded via the iPhone and Android application stores. The app is designed to offer the owner an intuitive, easy-to-use relationship wîth the car from a distance.

Safety and Support

Pedestrian Detection wîth full auto brake is a groundbreaking technological solution. It can detect pedestrians who walk into the road in front of the car, warn the driver – and automatically apply full braking power if the driver does not respond in time. In an emergency situation the driver first receives an audible warning combined wîth a flashing light in the windscreen’s head-up display. At the same time, the car’s brakes are pre-charged. If the driver does not react to the warning and an accident is imminent, full braking power is automatically applied. Pedestrian Detection wîth Full Auto Brake can avoid a collision wîth a pedestrian at speeds of up to 35 km/h if the driver does not react in time.

Rear impacts represent a third of all reported accidents – and in more than 50 percent of these accidents, the driver doesn’t brake at all. Collision Warning wîth Full Auto Brake is a refined warning system that initially warns the driver and pre-charges the brakes. The brakes are automatically activated if the driver doesn’t act when a rear-end collision wîth a moving or stationary vehicle is imminent. The all-new Volvo S60 also features City Safety as standard. With City Safety, the car automatically brakes if the driver fails to react in time when the vehicle in front slows down or stops – or if he or she is driving too fast towards a stationary object. The system can lessen or even entirely avoid low-speed rear-end impacts at speeds up to 30 kilometres per hour.

Driver Alert Control is a unique technology to detect and alert tired and distracted drivers. Blind Spot Information System helps detect vehicles in the offset rear blind spot on both sides of the car. Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver if the car runs across the lane markers without the turn indicator being used. In the field of comfort, there are features such as the optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which automatically maintains a set gap to the vehicle in front. What is new is that the Adaptive Cruise Control operates at speeds below 30 km/h, all the way down to standstill (cars wîth automatic gearbox). The S60 can naturally be equipped wîth parking sensors front and rear and a Park Assist camera at the rear. A camera in the front grille wîth a 180 field of vision is available as an option. This camera ‘can see’ around the corner and helps the driver negotiate blind exits and park wîth greater safety.