Volvo

Volvo, yes, it’s Cool!

By: Juan G. Robbin

Volvo S60 T6 AWD (2011)

When you think Volvo, you think mainly of cars that offer safety and at times, conservative, even uninspiring styling. This typical reaction is rapidly changing, thanks to the current line-up of Volvo vehicles which are actually good looking and interesting to drive. Yet, maintaining the all-important DNA that Volvo is so well known for. The refreshed styling and active safety features are perfectly highlighted by the newly redesigned and cool-looking 2011 S60.

Even though the S60 has the unmistakable Volvo lineage look, it most definitely manages to come across fresh and current. The roof line has an elegant sweep, ending at the base of the rear window and the front fascia looks forceful and modern. Headlight treatment is styled more aggressively, and it works, blending in quite well with the overall design.

Inside the S60, you are greeted with an updated interior that continues to offer the clean and crisp Scandinavian look that is reminiscent of the current Volvo interior design, yet updated and modern. This works well for the S60 as it gives the driver and passenger a feel of relaxation and comfort without being over the top. Front seats are superbly comfortable, offering pleasing, supple-to-the-touch leather. Dash, instrument cluster and center console are brushed metallic, giving off a modern flavor to the interior. Switchgear and controls are first rate, quite pleasing to the touch, actually. Rear seat is comfortable for two, a smidge tight for three. Navigation system is a leap forward in ease of use and on screen presentation. Trunk is deep and spacious.

Driving the S60 is a delight. There is a noticeable, yet non-intrusive exhaust tone that does give a hint of sportiness to the car, especially when you go deep with the accelerator pedal. Steering wheel feels superb, more so because of the luxurious feel of the leather used around the grip area. Acceleration is smooth and powerful, not overly-so though. Cornering feels direct and quite lively; this is due in part, to the AWD system and the excellent suspension set up. Braking is good, with a linear and powerful brake pedal feedback. The smooth 6 cylinder, turbocharged engine left us pleasantly surprised, making the S60 a bit of a stealthy, dark-horse sleeper when you want to impress off a stop light. For those that are tech and safety focused, the S60 offers a host of active safety features that will make even the most timid feel safe. These include: Lane departure warning, Distance alert/Driver alert control, Collision warning and pedestrian detection, both with full auto brake, (no, we didn’t ask for volunteers).

The 2011Volvo S60: A brilliant mix of traditional Volvo DNA coupled with a striking design as well as useful modern technology.

The Essentials:

MSRP: $37,700.00
MSRP (As tested): $46,200.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 22.1 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.0 liter, 300 HP turbocharged
Popular options: Premium & Technology Packages
visit: www.volvocars.com

2009 Volvo XC60

By: Juan G. Robbin

Evolutionary design that still looks fresh.
Volvo XC60 (2009)

The parental lineage to its big brother, the XC90 is readily apparent in the XC60 yet with freshened and updated details that is keeping this good looking design layout fresh and current.

Volvo’s image touts safety and a conservative design idea, which at times, some may say that it can be a bit dull. With the new for 2009 XC60, a subtle, yet noticeable change in philosophy has occurred. The exterior is updated with cool looking, sculpted rear lights as well as LED twilight lamps in front. The side profile of the XC60 is simply gorgeous, with the perfect proportion not only in size but also how the wheels and bumpers fit with the design. The front grille is dominated by an oversized Volvo corporate logo as well as the radar sensor for the adaptive cruise control system.

Inside you are greeted by a clean, minimalist, uncluttered Scandinavian style design. There is the optional light wood center stack appliqué as well as the easy to use HVAC controls. Seats have a unique two-tone supple leather finish that makes the interior stand out as well as being comfortable and supportive. The large panoramic glass roof creates an airy ambiance throughout the cabin, with a shoji-like electric shade that still lets filtered light shine in. Rear seats are comfortable to two, snug for three. There are innovative integrated outboard child booster seats that are a marvel of simplicity and convenience. Rear cargo space is typical for a mid-sized SUV style vehicle; with the rear seats folded forward, cargo room increases dramatically. Fit and finish even in areas like the cargo bay are first rate. Our press vehicle came with the optional DVD based navigation system that worked well with a quirky twist; all inputs are handled through a remote control. Why not keep things simple and have a touch screen system instead? Audio and ventilation information is displayed in a small center mounted hump mid dash. There is a large strip of lights in front of the driver, these are tied in to the external sensors which activate if a car comes too close or the approach speed is very high against an object. Its part of the optional technology package that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, collision warning and auto brake system. The lane departure system is great feature, but it can, at times become a bit annoying. Its easily triggered by simply getting too close to a lane line. We tried the auto brake feature by putting up some Volvo supplied plastic reflective barriers; we accelerated and simply did not touch the brake. At the last second, the system sensed the barriers and activated the brakes, at times hard enough to go into the ABS zone. We tried it three times at various speeds and in every case the XC60 stopped right at the barrier. No, I didn’t try it against another object but I am sure it will work as advertised.

One of the things we liked the most on the Volvo XC60 was the cohesiveness of the controls. The way the throttle, brakes and steering felt all working in combination. Like a trio of tenors in concert. The throttle and brakes have the perfect pedal force. Easy to make smooth starts and a joy to practice “limo stops” when coming to a stop. Power from the 3.0 liter V6 engine is impressive. It’s surprisingly quick and smooth regardless of what you ask of it. Handling felt more like a sedan than a midsized crossover. Suspension feels direct and at times a bit sporty, yet never choppy or harsh. The XC60 comes with an all wheel drive system with Instant Traction, we found this system to be like a good butler, ready to assist yet totally transparent at all the right times.

The 2009 Volvo XC90 is superbly designed, perfectly sized, offering a complete package with a Zen-like feel.

The Essentials

MSRP: $37,200.00 MSRP (As Tested): $44,240.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 17.6 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.0 liter, 281 HP
Popular options: Technology Package, Multi-media package, Mod wood center stack inlay, metallic paint.
Visit: www.volvocars.com

2008 Volvo XC90 Sport

By: Juan G. Robbin

A Great Looking Crossover/SUV With The Benefits Of Being A Volvo
Volvo XC90 V8 Sport (2008)

Synonymous for safety and conservatism, the XC90 is Volvo’s 1st generation crossover/SUV.
This car looks big and feels big, yet is similar in size to the typical mid size SUV. The design follows the same lines as the current Volvo look, with angles and curves that glide throughout the car. The look is modern and well balanced. We liked the 19 inch wheels with the lower profile tires, giving the XC90 a sporty look and feel to it.

The XC90 V8 Sports that we drove had the 3rd row seats that where surprisingly comfortable. These fold down, leaving an increased flat cargo floor. The 2nd and 3rd rows have their own A/C vents and plenty of storage space. Once inside the car, you notice a comfortable driver and front passenger seats, giving you the feeling of sitting ON the car instead of IN the car, this is a concept executed by Ford’s current lead designer and past Volvo chief designer Mr. Peter Horbury using the cockpit of the F16 military fighter jet as an inspiration. The center console controls are typical Volvo in their function and design, sleek and easy to use. Steering wheel is leather wrapped, with finger tip controls for cruise control and sound system.

This is the second time we have had the opportunity to drive the XC90 V8 and liked it much more than previous occasions. Steering is direct, with good feedback. Volvo offers the BLIS system, this is a Blind Spot Info. This system lights up an amber light on the base of each side mirror every time the sensors pick up a car in your left and right blind spots. This is a great feature, that once you get used to it you can’t imagine not being without it. Turning radius is excellent, making life easier in tight urban parking lots and streets. Acceleration is strong and direct with just the right feel both on the throttle and brake pedals.

The Volvo XC90 V8: Quality, safety and innovative design execution.

The Essentials

MSRP: $49,300.00 As tested: $54,592.00
Fuel Economy (observed): 18.3 MPG
Engine: 4.4 liter 8 cylinder, 311 HP
Popular optional items include: Park assist, power retractable mirrors, BLIS, Sirius radio, Technology package, rear seat entertainment DVD with wireless headsets and remote control
Visit: www.volvocars.com

2008 Volvo C30 2.0

By: Juan G. Robbin

Wow! A Volvo that caters to the younger generation!
Volvo C30 2.0 (2008)

Yes, its true! The new C30 is designed with the active young person in mind. Its modern style, mixed with the retro look is sure to be a hit with the under 40 crowd.

From the doors forward the C30 is an exact S40. Biggest difference is the 8.5 inches shorter and lighter by 320 Lbs as compared to the S40. An interesting design feature is the rear glass hatchback, harking back to the unique rear styling of the Volvo 1800ES from the early 70’s giving the C30 a sports wagon look that has become all the rage in small cars currently. Volvo has set its sights on the upscale small-hatchback market that is currently dominated by the wildly successful MINI Cooper and Cooper S models.

Styling and design is much edgier than the typical Volvo, with the contrasting color on the body kit, larger, low profile wheels and tires and a rear hatch that creates the signature look for the C30. This is definitely a car that is aiming towards the younger buyer that most likely would not have considered Volvo.

Inside you are greeted by the current Volvo look. Clean, uncluttered and well designed. The steering wheel has a great feel to it as its grip is perfect for comfort and feedback. The C30 we drove was the more powerful version 2.0 with a six speed manual transmission and a 227 HP turbocharged T5 engine.

We enjoyed driving the C30 with a manual transmission, the clutch, gears and response where right on the money for this type of car. We did notice just a hint of torque steer under full acceleration. Brakes and suspension felt more like a comfortable sports sedan than the typical Volvo. There was plenty of feedback and balance during all types of driving conditions. Volvo did a good job with the harmony of these key components.

We didn’t care for the exposed cargo compartment though. Volvo does offer a cover, but we feel it would be impractical or risky to leave any kind of exposed items in the back without a well placed cover shielding roaming eyes.

Volvo is also offering a unique custom build program that lets you create your own individual C30 as you want it. One nice feature is the dealers will be stocking key components ready to be installed, thus avoiding lengthy waits for custom factory build-ups. With the mix and match combinations it is certain that most C30’s will be as individual as its owners.

The Volvo C30 version 2.0 a surprisingly sporty Volvo with the fun and style meter dialed up a notch !

The Essentials

MSRP: $25,700.00 As Tested: $27,950.00
Observed fuel economy: 22 MPG
Engine: 5 cylinder 227 HP turbocharged engine.
Common options include: Metallic paint, fog lights.
Visit: www.volvo.com

2007 Volvo C70 T5

By: Juan G. Robbin

Volvo’s new C70 hardtop convertible is a winner !
Volvo C70 T5 (2007)

Want the comfort, security and rigidity of a hard top but lust for a convertible? Why not have both! With the Volvo C70 T5 coupe you can have your cake and eat it too.

Hardtop convertibles are no longer new. Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, BMW, VW and Cadillac each have hardtop models on the market. Volvo though, has upped one by having a four place coupe with usable and comfortable rear seats in their new C70 T5.

The folding hardtop system is a work of art. We found ourselves enthusiastically visiting friends and doing a show and tell with this car. It’s simply mesmerizing to see the three panels do their slick choreography and align themselves perfectly for their dance inward into the trunk. Do it again ! Everyone asked…Keep in mind; pack carefully if you want to let the sun shine in, as the top takes up most of the available trunk space. There is room for overnight and gym sized bags under the stowed top though.

Driving the new C70 T5 coupe is a pleasure. The seats are comfortable and the car is smooth and quiet. The suspension gives a soft, plush ride, more like a luxury car than a coupe. The instrument panel and center console is typical Volvo; simple, sleek and easy to manage. Steering is smooth, but can sometimes isolate the driver from the road. The acceleration is typical from a 5 cylinder turbocharged engine, brisk but not overwhelming. Full throttle acceleration gives you a hint of turbo lag and steering wheel torque steer, typical from front wheel drive cars.

The fit, finish, trim and layout are all excellent, although we would have liked larger cubby holes and places to put things. The 5 speed automatic with manual, geartronic shift is smooth and easy to use.

Volvo is serious about playing in the luxury field, and the New C70 hard top convertible is a bona fide alternative to the Mercedes CLK and BMW 3 series convertibles with the important benefit of having a hard top.

The Volvo C70 T5 hardtop convertible; it’s like having two cars in one.

Likes:

- Style and design
- Comfort and ride
- Top operation

Dislikes:

- Needs more power
- Limited trunk space with the top down

The Essentials

MSRP: $38,710.00 MSRP (as tested): $44,075.00
Fuel Economy: (observed) 23.2 MPG
Engine: Turbocharged 5 cylinder 2.5 liter, 218 HP
Automatic transmission with geartronic (optional)
Dynaudio package sound system with 2X130 watt amp (optional)
Visit: www.volvocars.com