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Spy Shots: '07 Volvo S80

Volvo is preparing an all-new replacement for the company's top-of-the-line S80, for release sometime in 2006. The current S80 underwent a restyling in 2003. These photos show for the first time a prototype during cold-weather testing on a frozen lake in Scandinavia. The car is still disguised, yet the new styling is clearly visible. The next S80 is again a four-door sedan but with a much rounder and more V-shaped body than its predecessor. It is again front-wheel drive and is expected to get power from a variety of four- and six-cylinder engines, as before. According to rumors from Sweden, it could also be available with Volvo's new eight-cylinder engine.

Swede dream?

Volvo's new S40 saloon will go on sale next March with prices starting at just over £16,000.

The new model is packed with equipment and features a unique 'floating' backless centre console.

Opening the range is the 125bhp 1.8-litre petrol model at £16,113, followed by the 2.0D 136bhp version at £17,388. The top of the range, high performance T5 is £23,763.

Entry level S models have Electronic Climate Control, Dynamic Stability and Traction Control, Emergency Brake Assist and 16-inch alloy wheels.

The more luxurious 'SE' specification offers leather upholstery, cruise control and a trip computer as standard.

Customers can place orders for the S40 from today, and first deliveries are expected from March 2004. Models will be on display in dealer showrooms from late-February next year.

Miami Auto Show: Volvo S60 R GT

The official show car for the 2004 South Florida International Auto Show is this Volvo S60 R GT. Could they add anymore letters to the name? Readers might find it hard to tell the difference between this show car and the regular S60 R from the press release. It says the GT features the regular S60R’s 300 horsepower turbocharged 2.5 liter engine and an adjustable suspension between sport, comfort and advanced. But if this is the car Volvo is actually racing in the GT series I’d think the suspension is set and they could pull a few more horses out of somewhere. Maybe a few of the Swede fanatics can help us out with specs.

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