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Sweden's Best-Selling Wagon Evolves Sensibly
By Glady Reign
Analysts in the industry say that Sweden's best-selling station wagon is evolving sensibly with time. Now in its third generation, the Volvo V70 flaunts a gentle evolution over its predecessor. The architecture and auto philosophy used include the use of sleeker touch mated to athletic design and dynamic lines.
The third model to use the Volvo V70 moniker was officially introduced to the industry on the second of this month. Compared to the previous generations, the latest V70 is an estate version of the Volvo S80, the automaker's executive-class car. It shares the same sheet metal with some of its brethren however it showcases different bodystyles, grilles and front bumper.
The Volvo V70 and S80 have similar dashboards though and this goes true to the majority of its interior. The V70, being an estate version of the latter, is not a direct replacement for the old versions of the vehicle. The current version is designed to rival the estate versions of the estate versions of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and the BMW 5-Series. The predecessors of the model were aimed at the class below.
The Volvo V70 is one of the important vehicles of the automaker on the market these days. Volvo said ever since the introduction of the Volvo PV445 in 1953, the vehicles has dominated the premium estate market. However, the evolution was kept in line with the automaker's traditional features like Volvo C30-inspired tail lights, egg-crate front grille and a silhouette.
The interior of the wagon is maintained Volvo's essential Scandinavian elements reflected in the cabin design, chunky headrest and large seats. The automaker has also given the Volvo V70 new cool and hot air ventilation for the front seats. Tight competition in the segment prompted Volvo to make its cabin more spacious and functional. In addition, the legroom size is also increased by 48 mm.
How sensible could the V70 get? Well, the automaker has significantly boosted its versatility factors. Boot space was increased by 55 liters, 40-20-40 three-part split rear seats that can be folded, and a sliding boot floor for more convenient loading. Said feature is also offered by the Mercedes-Benz E-class estate. With regards safety, the Volvo V70 offers adjustable bolster cushions in the rear seats for children. To enhance safety further, active cruise control with collision warning system is also given.
The exterior of the V70 also entertained modifications. The fascia is no longer inclined towards the driver. The said Volvo trend is also apparent in the automaker's new vehicles – the C30, S40, V50 and the S80.
Aside from the use of distinct Volvo performance chip, the Volvo V70 also uses a functional chassis with high-strength steels and torsional rigidity. Said chassis is linked to 15 percent benefit on handling and ride. The driving benefit is not offered in the previous V70's. Also, stability and traction control are made standard across the range. Higher models are given all-wheel-drive with automatic torque distribution and electronically controlled suspension called Four-C chassis technology.
All engines of the V70 are hooked to either automatic or six-speed manual transmissions. The biofuel E85-compliant T version generates 145 horsepower while the T63.0-litre turbocharged inline-six produces 285 horsepower good for 0-100 kilometer per hour in 7.2 seconds. Other engines used in the model include the inline-five petrol and diesel, both with turbos: 2.5-litre D5 producing 185hp and 400Nm and 2.5-litre T with 200hp and 300Nm - both carried over from the previous V70. But it comes with tweaks in turbo, fuel injection and engine management systems.
With the sensible evolution, Volvo expects a positive feedback from its wagon aficionados. About the Author Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. She is a native of the motor city and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field. You can visit Volvo performance chip for more information.
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Some other articles by Glady Reign | |
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