SEAT launches new Cupra performance brand with Cupra Ateca SUV

Not content with just being a badge, Cupra is now a brand, and a 296bhp Ateca SUV is its first model

SEAT will launch its new standalone Cupra performance brand with a 296bhp Ateca SUV, with all future SEAT models also earmarked to be offered with a more focussed Cupra derivative that will include a range of petrol, plug-in hybrid and even battery-electric powertrains. Cupra also hasn’t ruled out the idea of producing its own standalone model. In total, Cupra will launch seven new models in the next three years.

Cupra’s ambitions include a range of models based on both existing and future models within the SEAT family, from the Cupra Ateca to new Ibiza, Arona and the next Leon, although there are currently no plans for a VW Up GTI-rivalling Cupra Mii. Built in SEAT's Martorell factory outside Barcelona, Cupra models will be developed by the firm’s SEAT Sport division, and while performance will be a key contributor to the Cupra ethos the company says styling and personalisation is also key.

At the brand’s international launch, SEAT’s executives were frustratingly vague as to the specifics of the engineering DNA that will make a Cupra stand out from the existing SEAT Cupra models, which confusingly will still be sold alongside the new Cupra-branded models. Vice president for R&D, Dr Matthias Rabe, would only go as far as to say that we can expect the dynamic improvements that were made to the limited edition SEAT Leon Cupra R – quicker, more direct steering, a sacrifice to ride comfort for improved agility, and a powertrain focussed on performance – to be the benchmark for all future new Cupra models. In terms of powertrains, petrol engines will lead the line-up, with a plug-in hybrid also expected that will most likely feature electric motors on the rear axle tuned for performance over emission savings.

An indication of the direction Cupra will head in can be seen in its first model launched under the new brand: the Cupra Ateca. Its 2-litre, turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine is taken from the current SEAT Leon Cupra and mapped to suit the required performance characteristics. Mated to a seven-speed DSG gearbox and four-wheel-drive running gear, the Cupra Ateca is also fitted with adaptive dampers and a selection of driving modes, including a more extreme Cupra mode. Nineteen-inch wheels and tyres are standard fit, and a number of carbonfibre aero devices will also be fitted. SEAT badges will be replaced with new bronze-finished Cupra tags. It will reach 62mph in 5.4 seconds and top 152mph, and is expected to cost between £35,000 and £40,000.

So why take an existing trim line and create a standalone brand? The simple answer is that SEAT isn’t performing strongly enough and needs to contribute more to the VW Group’s bottom line, and Luca de Meo, SEAT's president, sees it as the only way of achieving this. 'The SEAT brand still has image problems,' he told evo. 'We have proven we can design, develop and build cars to a standard equal to premium brands, but for many the SEAT badge is a barrier. Cupra will allow us to have a halo brand that will attract new customers to Cupra and also SEAT.'

How many new customers? In the last 20 years SEAT sold 60,000 Cupra-badged SEAT models: in 2017 it sold 10,000 alone. Cupra on its own will now have to double that latter figure within two to three years, of which 80 per cent are expected to be conquest sales and therefore totally new to the Spanish brand. The plan also states that 10 per cent of all future SEAT sales should be Cupra models. To reach those customers, over 20 per cent of SEAT's worldwide dealer network (265 dealers) will become Cupra specialist dealers, with SEAT funding 50 per cent of the investment costs dealers will face taking on the new brand. SEAT's head of sales and marketing also hasn’t ruled out individual Cupra dealers.

However, don’t expect a glut of new Cupra models in the immediate future, with Cupra Ibiza and Arona currently in the pipeline, and the first Cupra Leon not expected to appear until after the new Seat Leon is launched in 2019. Although, rather confusingly, a 296bhp, four-wheel drive SEAT Leon Cupra R ST will make its debut on the SEAT stand at next month’s Geneva motor show alongside a Cupra Ibiza concept.

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source : evo.co.uk

296bhp Cupra Ateca revealed as first car from Seat performance brand

Seat’s new stand-alone performance brand, Cupra, has revealed its 296bhp all-wheel-drive version of the Ateca – the first model to be launched since Seat confirmed its hot sub-brand’s new role last month.

The car is part of a broader offensive to offer Cupra versions of some Seat models as well as, eventually, Cupra-only cars. Seat is trying to copy the example of in-house performance divisions like Renault Sport. It will launch seven models by 2020 as part of aggressive growth plans.

Cupra could get electrified powertrain tech before Seat

While the initial models will be reworked versions of current Seat machines, with Cupra Ibiza and Arona models likely in 2019, the firm hinted that it could introduce standalone Cupra models in the future, as part of plans to use the brand as a technological figurehead.

The brand's sales and marketing boss Wayne Griffiths said that splitting from Seat was important for brand value. "In terms of positioning it adds more to go with a separate brand," he said. "If we kept it in the Seat world there would always be compromises. We want to take it out of the Seat world to the race track. Most firms that have sporting brands take them out of heritage, like Abarth. But we want to look to the future

Opinion: Why Cupra split from Seat

Cupra models will be based on Seats – for the foreseeable future, at least – but with significantly higher performance, more customisation options and a separate sales channel. Only about one-fifth of Seat’s dealer network will be awarded Cupra sub-franchises and models are set to be sold by specialists from Cupra-only areas.

The Cupra plan according to R&D boss Matthias Rabe

Autocar first reported on the plans last year, when a draft of the new logo was shown in trademark filings. Seat boss Luca de Meo later admitted that Cupra would “add another dimension” to Seat’s appeal.

“Cupra emerged not just as a business discussion," he said. "This is a declaration of love for motoring, in a society becoming a bit unfriendly to the sector.”

The Cupra Ateca, on sale in the autumn, is powered by a 296bhp version of the Volkswagen Group’s EA888 2.0-litre turbocharged engine although the torque peak of 295lb ft is higher than that produced by the similar engine in the Leon Cupra 300. Drive passes through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox – there are no plans for a manual version – with torque diverted rearwards when required by a part-time Haldex all-wheel drive system. Cupra claims a 5.4sec 0-62mph time and a 150mph top speed.

Cupra Ibiza concept revealed

Although its components are almost all familiar from other members of the VW Group’s vast MQB-platform family, the Cupra Ateca is said to have been tuned to offer a substantially different driving experience from its Seat sibling.

The suspension height has changed only fractionally, with the Cupra sitting 20mm lower than the regular car, but spring rates have been substantially revised and suspension settings are far firmer. Adaptive dampers will be standard, allowing for a far more aggressive set-up when using the ‘Cupra’ setting, which has been added to the Ateca’s switchable driving modes.

Cupra sub-brand could get latest powertrain tech before Seat

The Cupra has also ditched the electronic sound symposer that normally augments engine noise in rortier MQB models. Standard brake discs will be 17in, but 18in Brembo units will be offered as an option.

Although badges have been changed from the Seat ‘S’ to Cupra’s new triangular logo, the exterior design builds on that of the regular Ateca rather than transforming it. Bumpers are bulkier and there is a small wing at the top of the tailgate.

The Cupra gets 19in diamond-cut alloy wheels as standard plus the option of several unique colours. There will also be external and internal carbonfibre trim packages. The interior uses lots of Alcantara and incorporates plenty of copper details – Cupra’s new corporate colour, a move away from the brasher orange with which the name was formerly associated. Other Cupra models will follow hard on the heels of this Ateca, with design concepts for Cupra versions of the Ibiza and Arona shown alongside it at the official launch. The company line is that these are to gauge reaction rather than indicate production intent and Seat’s R&D boss, Matthias Rabe, has indicated that the Leon will be the next production version.

Rabe also confirmed that Cupra’s birth as a brand will make it easier to produce limited-run models and higher performance variants in the manner of the Leon Cupra R. No new diesel Cupras are expected, but there will be Cupras that use forthcoming mild-hybrid powertrains.

Rabe said it’s possible there will ultimately be a Cupra-only halo model, but there are no immediate plans for one. “In the first years, you will have derivatives,” he said. “If you are talking about a very special car only for Cupra, I could imagine a sports car or a spider or something like that but, to be honest, we don’t have that on the plan. It could be an aspiration for the longer term.” Seat sold fewer than 10,000 Cupra models last year and the aim is for the stand-alone Cupra brand to double those volumes within five years – a modest ambition given what will soon be a multi-model line-up.

At the Cupra launch event, a new Seat Leon Cupra R ST estate was shown (below). The all-wheel-drive machine is powered by a 2.0-litre 296bhp RSI engine, and sits alongside the existing Seat Leon Cupra R. For consistency, both models will retain Seat branding, although from now on they will feature a copper Seat logo and other special trim.

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source : autocar.co.uk

Fiat Launches Special Mirror Edition For The 500 Family

Fiat has opened the order books in Europe for the special Mirror series of the 500 model family.

Following the success of the 500 Mirror that launched last April, Fiat expanded the Mirror treatment to the other two 500 models, the 500X crossover and the 500L minivan.

The normal 500 Mirror hatchback is marketed as the car for Millenials, thanks to the standard Uconnect infotainment that features a high-res 7-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and the Mopar Connect services.

Fiat has added Italia Blue to the paint options of the 500 Mirror, featuring chrome-plated accents on the front bumper, door mirrors and alloys. The Fiat 500 Mirror hatchback is available both as a hardtop and as a convertible.

The Fiat 500X Mirror features a one-of-a-kind Blue Jeans matte color, satin chrome details, 17-inch black diamond alloys and xenon headlights, as well as the special ‘Mirror’ badging. Its interior features a matching Blue Jeans dashboard fascia along with blue stitching accents.

As for the 500L Mirror, Fiat offers it in unique two-tone Venezia Blue with the roof finished in Maestro Grey, paired with chrome details and 17-inch alloy wheels.

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source : carscoops.com

Skoda To Bring The Vision X Concept To The 2018 Geneva Motor Show

The company has revealed a few sketches of the what it calls the Vision X Concept and this one shows the company's outlook for a model range with hybrid technology.

We've seen the Kodiaq and the more compact Karoq but this year at the Geneva Motor Show, Skoda is bringing something better and in all likelihood smaller than both the cars. The company has revealed a few sketches of the what it calls the Vision X Concept and this one shows the company's outlook for a model range with hybrid technology. Skoda calls it an 'urban crossover' and it gets some of the characteristic features of the company's successful SUV models to another vehicle segment.

he Vision X Concept is compact in its proportions in its FlexGreen-painted exterior we can't help but look at it and be reminded of the Hyundai Kona. The roof comes with a contrast Anthracite sets sporty accents while the distinctive bumpers, side sills, panoramic glass roof and 20-inch alloy wheels give it a bit more pizzaz.

Inside, the Vision X sees a fundamentally new design language. The wide, ergonomically contoured dashboard with freestanding colour display dominates the cabin and as you would expect from the car, the infotainment and connectivity services are all accessible on a big touchscreen.

The Vision X will be the third model to be added to the company's SUV family and will likely be one of the first SUVs from the company to come with a hybrid powertrain. We wait to know more about the concept in March this year.

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source : auto.ndtv.com

FERRARI have launched their new car ahead of the 2018 F1 season

FERRARI have launched their new car ahead of the 2018 F1 season, featuring an interesting design on the Halo safety device

F1 pre-season testing is about to get underway in Barcelona next week, and Ferrari have become the latest team to unveil their 2018 car before taking to the track.

The SF71H was revealed in front of a live audience at the team’s Maranello base in Italy, with drivers Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen both present for the event.

Ferrari’s new car sports a traditional red livery, but fans and rival teams alike will be interested in their unique Halo design.

With the safety device becoming mandatory this season, Ferrari have added an extra lip on top of the structure – potentially providing more downforce.

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source : express.co.uk

Ferrari introduce the SF71H

Just hours after reigning world champions Mercedes launched their 2017 challenger at Silverstone, their closest rivals from last season – Ferrari – presented their new F1 car in Italy.

The SF71H builds on the foundations of last year's multi-race winning SF70H, albeit with several noticeable differences.

The most obvious visual change is a return to a traditional all-red livery, with the new-for-2018 halo also painted in the colour. 

However, closer inspection reveals plenty of significant changes to the chassis, with the car having both a longer wheelbase than its predecessor, as well as an even more aggressive sidepod design, a revised cooling system and updated aerodynamics.

The suspension follows Ferrari’s tried and tested practice of using push-rods at the front and pull-rods at the rear, however, the team say their design has been updated based on experience gained during the first season running Pirelli’s wider tyres.

"The SF71H represents an evolution of last year’s car, which was already a good project," explained Technical Director, Mattia Binotto. "We’ve tried to retain the strengths. Our strengths I would say first is aggressiveness in some of the concepts.

"We designed a car that was somehow performing very well on low speed circuits, but we knew we had to work on new areas of development. For example, trying to develop the car to be strong in performance on the high-speed circuits, but also on reliability.

"What has changed? The main difference is we have a slightly longer wheelbase compared to last year. We have the sidepods, the radiator ducts which are even more aggressive and innovative than what we had last year. Overall, the entire team did a fantastic job in terms of packaging to be very tight. If you look at the body it’s a very narrow body."

The new car will make its track debut during a filming day in Barcelona on Sunday February 25, one day before pre-season testing begins at the Spanish circuit.

Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen will share driving duties.

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Source : formula1.com

Ferrari Reveals its 2018 F1 Car, the SF71H

Ferrari has unveiled its latest grand prix racing car, the SF71H, ahead of the 2018 Formula 1 season.

The halo-fitted new car was shown off at Ferrari's Maranello base on Thursday, four days before the start of F1's pre-season testing at Barcelona.

It features the Italian marque's traditional red livery, with the colour white mostly absent from the car in contrast to its immediate predecessors.

F1 challenger since the 2009 machine not to feature Santander branding, following the Spanish financial giant's decision to end its grand prix racing sponsorship deals.

The Scuderia heads into the season with the same race line-up as it's fielded in the past three years, comprised of the team's most recent F1 drivers' champion Kimi Raikkonen and four-time F1 champion Sebastian Vettel.

Both were present at the launch, alongside the team's new development driver Daniil Kvyat and Ferrari-backed Sauber reserve Antonio Giovinazzi.

The 2018 car's predecessor, the SF70H, was Ferrari's most competitive offering in years, helping Vettel to five race wins.

It sustained a credible title challenge against the hybrid era's dominant team Mercedes for most of the season, before late-campaign accidents and engine reliability woes allowed the Silver Arrows to break away.

Ferrari's tech chief Mattia Binotto confirmed the SF71H was an "evolution" of last year's design, but also revealed the team has moved to a longer-wheelbase design, akin to the one preferred by Mercedes in 2017.

On the engine side, Ferrari is to start the season with an evolution of last year's design. It is thought to have focused on reliability in particular, given last year's problems and with F1 moving to a limit of three engines per season.

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Source : motorsport.com

2018 VW Passat GT is a sportier sedan with a V6

2018 Volkswagen Passat GT will show off a sportier look in Detroit

Volkswagen is keen to show that it can adapt to local conditions in North America. After all, what sells in Mexico doesn't necessary work perfectly in Canada. Well, the limited-run (how limited, we don't know) Passat GT is aimed squarely at the U.S. of A. with about 20 updates, mostly cosmetic, that enhance the Passat's sportiness inside and out. And it looks a lot like the concept we saw back in 2016, too.

The enhancements certainly do their part. The Passat GT does indeed look sportier. That's due to a mix of R-Line parts (like the front bumper) and unique touches, like the red accents that recall the Golf GTI. There's also a honeycomb grille, a black roof, 19-inch "Tornado" wheels, and a black rear decklid spoiler. The overall effect is nice, and it looks a lot like a large sedan version of the excellent GTI. Pure White, Reflex Silver, Platinum Grey, and Deep Black are the exterior color options.

Unlike the GTI, which gets extra power as well as performance suspension and an optional limited-slip differential, the GT makes do with "a sport suspension," the details of which are not clear at the time of this writing. Whether the revised suspension merely improves the stance or has a real driving benefit is unknown. The VR6, however, is unchanged but still healthy, making 280 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It's backed up by VW's excellent six-speed DSG, with the paddle shifters you'd expect.

Inside, there's a 6.3-inch infotainment system that supports CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and standard Sirius XM with a three-month trial. Beyond that, the inside is set off with piano black trim and carbon fiber-look accents, with GT badge sills. Two-tone leatherette will be the material on the seats, but the wheel is wrapped in real leather.

The GT will hit dealers in mid-2018, starting at $29,940.

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source : autoblog.com

New 2018 Peugeot Rifter revealed to replace the Partner Tepee

Peugeot gets a new lease of life in the LAV segment with the all-new Rifter – a sibling for the Citroen Berlingo and Vauxhall Combo Life

Peugeot is the third and final PSA brand to reveal its new van based MPV, after a trio of new PSA leisure activity vehicles (LAVs) were teased last week.

Replacing the Partner Tepee as Peugeot’s LAV offering is the new Rifter, which is based on a modified version of PSA’s EMP2 platform. It lines up alongside the new Citroen Berlingo Multispace and Vauxhall Combo Life. Like those vans, the Rifter is an exercise in badge engineering, sharing the same underpinnings and overall form, though with Peugeot’s latest family face distinguishing it from the rest of the pack. Sportier looking GT-Line models will be available too. 

Again, like its two siblings, the Rifter will be available in two sizes. A ‘Standard’ wheelbase van sizes up at 4.4 metres long, while the long-wheelbase ‘Long’ model stretches out to 4.75 metres. Five seats are standard, with seven seat models arriving on the market next year. Shorter models will sport 775 litres of boot space with five seats in place, while cargo room in the Long model swells up to 1,050-litres. 

Under the bonnet will be a familiar spread of 1.2-litre PureTech petrol options, as well as PSA’s 1.5-litre Blue HDI four-cylinder diesel. The PureTech unit will be available with either 108bhp or 128bhp, with the latter gaining an automatic gearbox.

Similarly, the 1.5-litre BlueHDI diesel will be available in two states of tune – a 74bhp entry-level version alongside a 128bhp unit. Both feature a manual gearbox as standard, with an automatic gearbox to be made available on the 128bhp diesel. Optional drivetrain enhancements include Peugeot Advanced Grip Control for off-road surfaces, while hill descent control is also available.

In the cabin the overall dashboard and interior layout is just as you’ll find in both the Citroen and the Vauxhall, meaning a new, cleaner design with wide horizontal air vents, a wide central bin beneath the gearstick, and a tablet infotainment screen on top range models.The Peugeot does sport two slight differences, however – a trademark, small steering wheel sits ahead of an i-Cockpit style instrument panel.

Orders open early this summer, with complete UK specifications and prices to be outlined closer to launch.

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Source : autoexpress.co.uk

2019 Volvo V60: This is Volvo's gorgeous new compact wagon

2019 Volvo V60: This is Volvo's gorgeous new compact wagon

If you’ve been following Volvo for the past few years, the V60 should be a foregone conclusion. After all, it’s based on the same Scalable Product Architecture as the rest of the revamped Volvo lineup, preceded by the XC90 and XC60 crossovers and V90 wagon. In the U.S., the V60 will be available with three powertrains, dubbed T5, T6 AWD and T6 AWD Twin Engine. Despite the name variation, the powertrains all share a common 2.0-liter I4. The differences between the alphanumeric badges are what Volvo adds to that 2.0-liter.

The V60 T5 FWD will sport a turbocharger and an intercooler, good for 254 hp in the XC60; we don’t know exact V60 numbers yet, but expect them to be close. The T6 AWD-powered wagon adds a supercharger to that turbocharged 2.0-liter, making it a "twin-charged" engine. In the V60, Volvo says this combination is good for 310 hp. Volvo is also adding a hybrid T6 that makes 340 hp combined with its electric motor. There are diesel engines, and a T8 version making 390 hp as well, but as of now, they aren’t coming stateside.

All the safety and semi-autonomous tech from the bigger V90 will make its way to the scaled-down wagon. That means the Pilot Assist system will be able to help you stay between the lanes on your early-morning commutes and make your life easier in stop-and-go traffic. City Safety with Autobrake will try to help you avoid hitting pedestrians along that commute. There is also Run-off Road Mitigation and Oncoming Lane Mitigation, which, like the names suggest, help keep the V60 on the road and out of the path of oncoming traffic. Like the V90, these semi-autonomous safety features are standard issue for the V60. There is an optional cross traffic alert that automatically brakes when the car senses rear cross traffic, but you probably won’t miss it if you leave that box unchecked.

The V60’s interior looks as comfortable and welcoming as its full-size siblings. The massive infotainment screen is in the middle of the minimalist dashboard and is Apple CarPlay- and Android Auto-ready. Like the XC60 and the V90, you’ll control most of the comfort functions through the infotainment screen. The exterior looks, well, like a shrunken V90 -- that’s a good thing. The stylish taillights that climb the wagon’s rear complement the Thor’s Hammer headlights.

There’s no word on how much this will cost, but the current V60 starts just shy of $40K. We imagine there will be a slight price bump with the new V60, but Volvo will still keep it far enough away from the V90’s starting price for it to make sense.

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Source : Autoweek.com

FIVE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT 2019 VOLVO V60

We generally like the current V60, especially in Polestar form. Even with a dated infotainment system and confusing center console, it pairs wagon practicality with some of the most comfortable seats on the market. But after Volvo showed off the larger, all-new V90, the smaller V60 suddenly felt like yesterday’s news. That was, until today when Volvo revealed the redesigned V60 in all its wagon glory. If the promise of a wagon that shares the V90’s good looks at a more affordable price has piqued your interest, then here are five facts about the 2019 Volvo V60 that you need to know.

It shares a platform with the XC90

The original XC90 impressed us enough to win our Sport/Utility of the Year award back in 2003, but the 2016 redesign was such a huge leap forward, it didn’t even feel like it had been built by the same company. A large part of that improvement can be attributed to Volvo’s new Scalable Product Architecture. But the SPA platform was designed to underpin more than a large SUV. It’s flexible enough to be used on a midsize crossover like the XC60, a midsize luxury sedan like the S90, and now a smaller wagon like the V60. Because of that, you can expect the V60 to have a lot in common with the larger, more-expensive vehicles in Volvo’s lineup.

U.S. customers get two engine choices

When the 2019 Volvo V60 goes on sale, European customers will have two gasoline engines, two diesel engines, and two plug-in hybrid powertrains to choose from. But if you’re already imagining the fantastic fuel economy you’ll get in your new diesel-powered Volvo wagon, don’t get too excited. Customers in the U.S. will only have two options: the front-wheel-drive T5 with 250 hp and the all-wheel-drive T6 with 316 hp. Like with the S90, there’s a good chance the T8 plug-in hybrid will eventually make it to the U.S., but if you’re waiting for a diesel, don’t hold your breath.

Safety features abound

For the last several decades, Volvo has worked hard to cement its image as one of the safest automakers in the world. To make sure the V60 continues that tradition, Volvo gave it the same driver-assist features found in the S90 and XC60. That includes an automatic emergency braking system that Volvo claims can recognize pedestrians, bicyclists, and even large animals. The V60 also gets an advanced version of adaptive cruise control that can handle some of the steering in clear conditions on well-marked roads. At speeds of up to 80 mph, the system can also brake to minimize or avoid accidents.

Plaid seats will be an option

Customers who want to sit on good old-fashioned leather will have plenty of options to choose from, including a couple different types of Nappa leather upholstery. Anyone looking for a Swedish station wagon with a little extra flair, however, should get excited about the plaid seats in these press photos. The V60 looks great no matter how it’s equipped, but it looks extra cool when the interior is decorated with plaid.

It’s part of the Care program

For customers who like the idea of getting a new car every few years, Volvo created Care. Officially called Care by Volvo, it’s an update on traditional leasing that lets members swap their old car for a new one every 24 months. Unlike a traditional lease, Care also includes all maintenance, registration, taxes, and insurance. If members need a different vehicle for a short trip or special occasion, they’ll also be able to get a temporary loan. So theoretically, if your out-of-town friends come for a visit, you could swap your V60 for an XC90 while they’re in town. Once they leave, you get your V60 back.

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Source: Volvo

Volvo V60 wagon is all new, will feature turbo hybrid power

It's telling that Volvo's chosen venue for the global unveiling of its brand-new V60 wagon was the driveway of a typical suburban family home, showing the new Volvo V60 in the natural habitat in which it is designed to operate. Very pragmatic. Very Swedish. And revealing of the newfound confidence in Volvo. Chinese owners Geely take an admirably stand-off approach to letting its Scandinavian identity once again define the brand — something the more globally minded Ford and GM failed to appreciate in their respective custodies of Volvo and Saab. The latter disastrously.

Thankfully Volvo survived and is on a roll, a 7 percent boost to sales resulting in production exceeding half a million cars in 2017 and China alone (Volvo's biggest market) seeing a 25.8 percent year-on-year increase. Meanwhile a $1.1 billion investment in a new production facility in South Carolina will bring 4,000 jobs and production of the new S60 sedan, underlining the importance of the American market to Volvo's ambitions.

This comes on the back of significant investment and high-quality product, the proprietary Scalable Platform Architecture under this new V60 shared with the XC90, S90 and V90 and the new XC60. A pledge to include part-electric propulsion on all new products by 2019 and ambition that no occupant of a Volvo will suffer death or serious injury in an accident post-2020 fulfill its image as an environmentally conscious and safety-aware brand. Beyond those worthy goals, the cars are also more stylish, better equipped and better built than ever.

Highlights of this new V60 include a symbolic break from the Ford era architecture of the outgoing model. Powertrains are Volvo's own. Expect Europe to get the V60 with plug-in hybrid options based on the familiar T6 and T8 Twin Engine AWD options available on the XC60, XC90 and others. T6 gets 340 horsepower and the T8 390 hp, while at launch the sole non-hybrid option will be the 310-hp T6 AWD, all models based around the same turbo/supercharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine. In due course expect a turbo-only, non-hybrid, front-driven T5, and diesel markets will get D3 and D4 options where appropriate. In the U.S., we'll have solid specs later, but you can safely expect the base FWD T6 to start, driven through an eight-speed auto.

Losing two inches in wheelbase and seven inches overall to its V90 big brother, this new V60 is still significantly longer, wider and lower than the car it replaces. Criticisms of the existing V60 include a surprising lack of interior space given the practical image, this new one increasing cargo capacity from 43.2 cubic feet to 48.2 and rear legroom by two inches. Like other models on the SPA platform, the V60 runs a quirky, Corvette style transverse leaf spring rear suspension setup.

Those proportions make the new V60 the sleekest Volvo in the range, the brand's newfound confidence reflected in its crisp, modernist styling. Cues like the cool-sounding 'Thor's Hammer' running light signature balance assertiveness to compete with the premium German rivals with a more understated overall look demonstrating Volvo has its own way of playing the same game. Inside and out this is a great looking car, and any worries the puny-sounding cylinder count and displacement may not deliver silenced when you hear the hybrid T6 version will blitz 0-62 miles per hour in just 4.8 seconds — a whole second faster than the T5. The rest of the family may not appreciate you nailing sports cars off the line at the lights, but the knowledge a Volvo station wagon is capable of such things will put a smile on your face.

Keep that one to yourself. More familiar Volvo attributes are of course present and correct, the new V60 building on the outgoing model's already strong safety offering. The existing standard-fit City Safety system has been expanded, Autobrake interventions now possible when sensors detect pedestrians, bicyclists or large animals. The ability to do the same in the face of oncoming vehicles and mitigate head-on impacts is claimed as a world first. An upgraded Pilot Assist, familiar from the XC60 and others in the current range, is also available and uses steering interventions to counter lane departure and oncoming vehicles. Optionally it can also include Cross Traffic Alert.

All being well these are features you'll never need to test, technology you can appreciate on your daily commute including the latest Sensus infotainment system with its large, vertically oriented touchscreen. As you'd expect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and 4G integration are all in place, the screen being your main interaction for everything from navigation to heating and ventilation. The better for realising the clean, uncluttered and typically Scandinavian interior design philosophy that makes other new-school Volvos such relaxing places to rack up the miles.

Pricing and availability are at this stage are not yet available, but by putting a modern twist on its traditional strengths Volvo's revival looks right on course.

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source : autoblog.com