The short video is not very revealing, simply showing the car under a cover and a few design sketches. However, we get a glimpse at a drawing showing a sharp front end a rear end that looks more fastback than sedan.
According to some reports, the Universe concept could preview a future S90 production model, a larger sedan than the company current largest, the S80. The new car could signal Volvo's involvement in the luxury vehicle segment, where it would compete against models like the Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7-Series, Audi A8 or Jaguar XJ. A move like this would seem reasonable given Geely’s plans for Volvo to enter the large sedan segment. Expect more details about the Volvo Universe concept in the following days. Until then, take a look at the teaser video below.
By Dan Mihalascu
The V70, XC70 and S80 are the first Volvos to feature higher performance versions of the five-cylinder D5 and D3 turbodiesels. The 2.4-liter D5 diesel unit now develops 215 horsepower and 440 Nm (324.5 lb-ft) of torque (up 10HP and 20 Nm respectively), while posting an 8 percent reduction in fuel consumption.
For example, the S80 D5 with manual gearbox returns a combined figure of 4.9 liters/100 km (48 mpg US) and emits 129 g of CO2 per kilometer, which are identical figures to the D3-powered S80.
The 2.0-liter D3 engine continues to develop 163HP and 400 Nm of torque, but Volvo claims the driveability has been improved thanks to the fine-tuning of the turbocharger.
Styling changes are discreet and include revamped headlamps with optional active xenon lights, LED turn indicators integrated into the door mirrors (for the V70 and S80), two new wheel designs for the V70/S80 and one for the XC70, plus new colors
The new model year brings the refreshed Volvo Sensus infotainment system with a five-inch or seven-inch color screen in the upper part of the center console through which the driver can access a range of settings, such as for the Collision Warning and Pedestrian Detection systems, the Active Cruise Control, lighting, climate unit and audio system. The larger 7-inch version also displays information and images from the navigation system, phone, reversing and panorama cameras, DVD player and digital TV.
Safety upgrades include the addition of the Pedestrian Detection system with Full Auto Brake, previously presented in the S60, V60 and XC60 models. The system uses radar and a camera to monitor pedestrians in front of the car and can automatically brake the car to avoid a collision.
Other additions include the City Safety system that can help avoid low-speed rear-end collisions, offered as standard on all three models, and also the Adaptive Cruise Control system.
By Dan Mihalascu
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