Volvo

The all-new Volvo S60, launched at Geneva Motor Show in March 2010 has been sculpted to move you – both physically and emotionally. It has an extrovert attitude never before seen in Volvo showrooms. It is also without a doubt the most dynamic Volvo model so far.

Exterior

The all-new S60 is sportier and more dynamic than any previous Volvo. But it is still an unmistakeable representative of Scandinavian design at its best. Virtually all the lines were penned to carve out the ‘coupe wîth four doors’ profile. The C-pillar stretches sensually all the way to the tail lamps – and the slim coupe-like roof line is accompanied by a new contour on the shoulders on either side of the lower body, creating a gentle yet powerful double wave from the headlamps at the front to the tail lamps at the rear.

The all-new Volvo S60 R-Design comes wîth a range of specially developed design details both outside and in. On the inside, the driver and front passenger sit in sports seats in which the backrest from the S60 and V60 is matched by an all-new seat cushion wîth even closer side support than before. Volvo Cars’ chassis experts have taken the next step on the road to a more and more exciting driving experience. In the R-Design chassis they have sharpened the §teering, the agility and the solid overall impression still further compared wîth the dynamic chassis in the all-new S60.

An exterior styling kit gives the customer an opportunity to further enhance the already sporty appearance. The styling kit comes as an accessory. It includes front and rear skid plates, a front deco frame, side scuff plates, exhaust tailpipe finishers and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Interior

Volvo’s designers obtained their inspiration from the racing track as they pursued the uncompromising sportiness inside the all-new S60. The graphic character of the racing track is clearly apparent in the instrument panel and in the doors. Every detail looks like it’s in motion. The instruments and centre stack are angled towards the driver to create a sensation of focus and control. The new dynamic three-spoke §teering wheel and new sports seats wîth extra side supports are standard.. The interior is lavish in terms of its driver-oriented details, but it is still a five-seater offering comfortable space for all its occupants. Beige and black are the main colours of the upholstery range, which is spiced up wîth the new highlight shade Beechwood Brown. The décor inlays are available in Charcoal, Shimmer Graphite aluminium or Úrbane Wood.

Volvo Sensus is an excellent example of how Volvo Cars refines the driver environment. All information is presented on a five-inch or seven-inch colour screen in the upper part of the centre stack. The screen is positioned high up to make it easy for the driver to keep his or hers eyes on the road. All the functions can be controlled via buttons built into the §teering wheel or via touch buttons located just below the colour screen.

If the customer chooses a multimedia audio system, Volvo Sensus comes upgraded wîth the larger seven-inch screen that also displays information and images from the navigation system, phone, reversing camera, panorama camera, DVD player, digital TV and so on. The Bluetooth connection has been upgraded to allow not only hands-free phone conversations but also music streaming from a preferred Bluetooth enabled portable music player. Volvo is actually the only brand to offer Bluetooth music streaming throughout the entire vehicle range.

New is also a mobile application that makes sure that the driver can stay in touch wîth the parked car via an iPhone or Android smart phone. The mobile application is an extension of Volvo On Call, which is presently available in 12 European countries plus Russia and Brazil. Now, the system has been reinvented. Owners of all new Volvos from Model Year 2012 wîth Volvo On Call can download the new application that opens up a range of connectivity possibilities. The mobile app is free and downloaded via the iPhone and Android application stores. The app is designed to offer the owner an intuitive, easy-to-use relationship wîth the car from a distance.

Driveline

The firm action to cut CO2-emissions has resulted in lowered fuel consumption throughout the engine programme. The T6 petrol engine has a displacement of 3.0 litres and has been improved still further, primarily thanks to lower internal friction. It now pumps out 304 hp and no less than 440 Nm of torque. At the same time, Volvo Cars’ engine specialists have succeeded in cutting fuel consumption by about 10 percent to 9.9 l/100 km (EÚ Combined). The engine’s power is delivered to the wheels via Volvo’s second-generation six-speed automatic Geartronic transmission.

The all-new S60 is also available as a 2.0 GTDi (GTDi as in Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection) variant (T5) producing 240 hp and torque of 320 Nm. Furthermore, there is a 1.6-litre GTDi engine available in two versions: 180 hp (T4) and 150 hp (T3) wîth torque of 240 Nm. The T5 and T4 are available in combination wîth Volvo’s automatic six-speed Power shift transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. The T3 comes wîth a manual gearbox. In Model year 2012 the S60 gets the sharpened versions of the five-cylinder D5 and D3 turbodiesels.

In the D5 engine Volvo Cars’ engine experts have boosting performance and torque from 205 hp/420 Nm to 215 hp and 440 Nm while at the same time reducing fuel consumption by eight percent. The quest for better driveability combined wîth lower fuel consumption and less environmental impact has led to increased focus on internal friction inside the engine. The D3 remains at 163 hp and 400 Nm. However, the two-litre diesel engine’s driveability is now far improved thanks to fine-tuning of the turbocharger. This is an excellent example of the fact that efficiency enhancement in modern combustion engines is now taking place at microscopic levels.

The improved driving properties of the turbodiesels are accompanied by lower fuel consumption figures for both engines. Fuel consumption (EÚ Combined) of a Volvo S60 D5 is now just 4,7 l/100 km (124 g/km) wîth the manual gearbox and 5,9 l/100 km (154 g/km) wîth the automatic. The corresponding figures for the D3 engine wîth manual gearbox are 4,9 l/100 km (129 g/km). Both turbo diesels are available wîth six-speed automatic transmissions or a six-speed manual gearbox. The D5 can also be specified wîth all-wheel drive. The DRIVe version of the all-new S60 features a 1.6-litre diesel engine. Fuel consumption is 4,3 l/100 km (EÚ Combined), corresponding to CO2 emissions at 114 g/km. The engine produces 115 hp and 270 Nm of torque, and will only be available wîth a six-speed manual gearbox.

CHASSIS

The all-new S60 is without a doubt the most dynamic car model Volvo has ever presented. The sedan can be specified wîth a choice of two chassis. On the European market the dynamic chassis is standard, while some other markets will have the touring chassis as standard wîth the dynamic variant available as an option. The difference between the two chassis alternatives is to be found in the dampers and the front and rear sub frames. Here the touring variant has a somewhat softer setting to give a smoother ride on poorer road surfaces.

Safety and Support

Pedestrian Detection wîth full auto brake is a groundbreaking technological solution. It can detect pedestrians who walk into the road in front of the car, warn the driver – and automatically apply full braking power if the driver does not respond in time. In an emergency situation the driver first receives an audible warning combined wîth a flashing light in the windscreen’s head-up display. At the same time, the car’s brakes are pre-charged. If the driver does not react to the warning and an accident is imminent, full braking power is automatically applied. Pedestrian Detection wîth Full Auto Brake can avoid a collision wîth a pedestrian at speeds of up to 35 km/h if the driver does not react in time.

Rear impacts represent a third of all reported accidents – and in more than 50 percent of these accidents, the driver doesn’t brake at all. Collision Warning wîth Full Auto Brake is a refined warning system that initially warns the driver and pre-charges the brakes. The brakes are automatically activated if the driver doesn’t act when a rear-end collision wîth a moving or stationary vehicle is imminent. The all-new Volvo S60 also features City Safety as standard. With City Safety, the car automatically brakes if the driver fails to react in time when the vehicle in front slows down or stops – or if he or she is driving too fast towards a stationary object. The system can lessen or even entirely avoid low-speed rear-end impacts at speeds up to 30 kilometres per hour.

Driver Alert Control is a unique technology to detect and alert tired and distracted drivers. Blind Spot Information System helps detect vehicles in the offset rear blind spot on both sides of the car. Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver if the car runs across the lane markers without the turn indicator being used. In the field of comfort, there are features such as the optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which automatically maintains a set gap to the vehicle in front. What is new is that the Adaptive Cruise Control operates at speeds below 30 km/h, all the way down to standstill (cars wîth automatic gearbox). The S60 can naturally be equipped wîth parking sensors front and rear and a Park Assist camera at the rear. A camera in the front grille wîth a 180 field of vision is available as an option. This camera ‘can see’ around the corner and helps the driver negotiate blind exits and park wîth greater safety.

The Volvo C70 continues to offer the best of both worlds. It’s a modern convertible wîth classic proportions, four comfortable seats and a three-piece retractable hardtop. The C70 can be transformed seamlessly from a coupe into a convertible. With the touch of a button, the retractable hardtop folds away quickly and smoothly into the trunk. Apart from the flexibility offered by the retractable hardtop it also makes for a quieter, more comfortable coupe. The large rear window glass offers outstanding outward visibility and improves body rigidity.

For the 2009 model year the C70′s sporty cabin receives aluminum inlays for the ultra-slim center control panel, door handle surrounds and gearshift knob. Those seeking to enhance the Scandinavian ambience can opt for the luxury of real wood wîth Nordic Light Oak inlays. The C70 ups the ante in the technology department wîth a standard Bluetooth hands-free phone interface. And the optional Volvo 40 gig HDD based navigation system wîth real time traffic information gains an improved driver interface, extended points of interest and a bird’s eye view map wîth detailed intersection and building footprints. Volvo also breaks some new ground by including an included ‘Map Care’ program that provides the owner wîth two map data updates, also included in the price of the system.

Driving pleasure excels in the C70 wîth its standard turbocharged T5 engine. Output for the 2.5-liter light-pressure turbo powerplant is 227 horsepower at 5,000 rpm wîth torque at 236 lb.-ft. from 1,500 to 4,800 rpm. The flat torque curve puts the power to the front wheels evenly and makes the car highly responsive. A performance-oriented six-speed manual gearbox is standard. All six forward gears are adapted to combine swift acceleration. The gearbox has triple synchros and a very distinct gear-change feel. A five-speed ‘Geartronic’ micro-processor controlled automatic wîth ‘Auto-stick’ function is optional.

The C70 is designed to accommodate four adults. The two rear seats have comfortably angled backrests and generous width across the supportive cushions. Like all Volvo cars, the front seats are ergonomically shaped. With a push of a button on the backrest, the front seats move quickly forward to facilitate entry to the rear seat. To more easily accept cargo when the roof is in the stowed position, the Volvo C70 comes standard wîth Load Assist. At the touch of a trunk-mounted button, the entire roof assembly is lifted several inches, increasing the size of the opening to allow for small tote bags to be dropped into the trunk.

As a Volvo, the C70 is fitted wîth an impressive roster of safety features. An important part of side impact and rollover protection is the Inflatable Curtain (IC). In the C70 it has been given a unique design. The curtain has an extra stiff construction wîth double rows of slats that are slightly offset from each other. This allows them to remain upright and offer effective head protection even wîth the window open. The curtain also deflates slowly to provide protection should the car roll over.

This is a unique solution in the automotive world, and a world first for a four-passenger convertible.Audio systems for the C70 have been developed to offer high-class sound reproduction wîth the top up or down. The standard high performance system features a 4 x 40 watt amplifier and eight speakers. Those seeking the ultimate audio experience will find it in the optional Dynaudio® Premium Sound system. It features an amazing total output of 910 watts of power, plus Dolby® Pro Logic II Surround Sound and 14 speakers, including dual eight-inch subwoofers.

Introduction

Mention the name Volvo and generally thoughts of bland cars that lack any measurable amount of fun come to mind. Because of this conservative image, it’s noteworthy when this Swedish manufacturer breaks ranks to produce a model that is both stylish and, dare we say, fun. As such, when the 2009 Volvo C70′s urbane first-generation predecessor debuted in 1998 — with help from Val Kilmer in the movie “The Saint,” no less — people took notice. “This is a Volvo?” was the initial reaction from many. The C70′s sleek lines and contoured edges constituted a radical departure from the design philosophy of its staid stablemates. When the second-generation C70 was unveiled in 2006 as a retractable-hardtop convertible with an even more refined and fluid shape, it was clear that the bloodlines had survived. Designed in conjunction with Ferrari’s design studio of choice, Pininfarina, the new C70′s curbside appeal was all but guaranteed.

With such a shapely exterior, one might assume that the 2009 Volvo C70 has the performance to match. For the most part, however, the two don’t quite match. This isn’t to say the C70 is a complete laggard — power from the turbocharged five-cylinder should be enough for many — but other European luxury convertibles like the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series will be more satisfying for drivers who find pleasure in acceleration and agile handling. In any case, it’s doubtful that high performance was ever the driving force behind the C70. What the 2009 C70 does deliver is a comfortable and elegant interior, a reasonable price and a long list of safety features. You might also want to take a look at Volkswagen’s Eos — it follows much of the same formula — but overall, the C70 is a solid choice for those in search of a sexy luxury convertible with the all-weather versatility of a retractable hardtop.

Interior Design and Special Features

The Volvo C70′s retractable hardtop folds itself into the trunk at the touch of a button, though this process requires a somewhat lengthy 30 seconds to complete. Trunk capacity is a generous 12.8 cubic feet with the top up, but drops to 6 cubes when the top is stowed. The C70′s front seats are extremely comfortable for the vast majority of humans, but scarce rear legroom makes the backseat suitable only for children and smaller adults. The fluid and graceful cabin is clutter-free, featuring Volvo’s stylish “floating waterfall” center stack along with simple and intuitive controls. Opting for the wood trim dresses up the center stack nicely. If there’s a misstep in the C70′s interior, it would be the use of some cheap plastics that look and feel out of place for a car in this price range.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options

The 2009 Volvo C70 is a four-seat luxury convertible with a retractable-hardtop design. It is offered in just one trim level, the T5, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a power-retractable hardtop, eight-way power front seats (with driver memory), automatic dual-zone climate control, full power accessories, heated outside mirrors, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker audio system with a CD/MP3 player and an auxiliary audio jack.

Buyers can outfit their C70s with a choice of four options packages as well as additional stand-alone upgrades. The Premium package includes leather seats and a six-CD changer. The Climate package adds heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers and headlamp washers. The Convenience package contributes rear park assist, keyless ignition and entry and a cabin air filtration system. For music lovers, there’s the Dynaudio package with its 14-speaker surround-sound audio system. Stand-alone options include Volvo’s blind-spot monitor, xenon headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, a hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic, satellite radio and interior wood inlays.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2009 C70 is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine that produces 227 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. Power is routed to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic with manual shift control. According to the EPA, the automatic-equipped C70 should return 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 21 mpg in combined driving.

Safety

The 2009 Volvo C70 comes with an impressive array of safety features, including antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control, front-seat side airbags and door-mounted side curtain airbags that protect front occupants even when the top is down. Automatically deployed rollover bars mounted behind the seats and anti-whiplash seats are also offered as standard equipment. A blind-spot monitor (Volvo’s BLIS) is available as an option. In crash testing, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the C70 its highest rating of “Good” for frontal offset and side impact protection.

Driving Impression

The 2009 Volvo C70′s turbocharged engine offers decent low-end torque, but acceleration is unimpressive by segment standards. Despite the inherent tendency of convertibles to exhibit body flex, the C70′s chassis remains taut over bumps. The softly sprung suspension and light steering feel make the C70 a pleasant highway cruiser or daily commuter, but they also serve as limits that keep the Volvo from being as involving or fun to drive as rival luxury convertibles. Our editors also noticed some brake fade during hard driving.

Highlights

The 2009 Volvo C70 gets no major changes. This four-seat convertible is based on Volvo’s S40/V50 compact car. C70 has a power-retracting metal top with heated-glass rear window. It comes in a single T5 trim level with a 227-hp turbocharged 5-cylinder engine. Manual or automatic transmission is available. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Also standard are rollover bars designed to deploy from the rear headrests if sensors detect an impending tip. A wireless cell-phone link is newly standard. Among options are leather upholstery, heated front seats, navigation system, rear-obstacle detection, and bi-xenon headlamps.

The third generation Volvo XC70 where the model year 2011 V70 belongs, is more refined than ever. A comfortable and luxurious appearance has been combined with top-class flexibility and an expressive design. The XC70 is a sophisticated and elegant car for an active urban life. Come the weekend and it transforms into a rugged partner for all kinds of exciting adventures.

Price: $32,000 – 38,000.
Invoice: $30,085 – 35,725.

EXTERIOR

The model has a unique soft nose. This is characterised by a larger grille and headlamps. The dark-coloured body panels provide an exclusive, rugged impression, clearly signalling the car’s dynamic capabilities. Moving to the side, the contrasting, protective sections are supplemented with a chrome moulding at the bottom of the doors. The pronounced wheel housings are another design feature, contributing to the capable appearance. A number of design elements, like the framed side windows and the distinct shoulders, create a genuine estate car profile. The tailgate’s upper section has a sportier forward-leaning stance. The tailgate overlaps the tail lamps, providing an even wider opening. The glass goes further down at the sides, enhancing rear view. The rails are integrated into the A-pillar mouldings.

CHASSIS

The car has been developed and balanced to give a first-class driving experience, based largely on pliant ride and secure road holding allied to high stability. Stability is particularly important when driving with many passengers and a lot of luggage. The car has been developed and balanced to give a first-class driving experience, based largely on pliant ride and secure road holding allied to high stability. Stability is particularly important when driving with many passengers and a lot of luggage.

Thanks to the design of the body structure and the optimised use of different grades of high-strength steel, torsional rigidity was increased by no less than 15 percent compared to the previous XC70 model. The chassis technology has been further developed to provide even more stable and more controlled road manners. A lot of effort has also gone into features such as the suspension system and engine installation to ensure high-class comfort.

DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control) is standard. This is a stability-enhancing system that when necessary reduces engine torque and applies carefully calculated braking power to reduce the risk of a skid. The car can be optionally specified with an active chassis based on Volvo’s Four-C technology. It is an advanced self-regulating chassis system that uses a number of sensors to continuously monitor the car’s behaviour. The dampers are adjusted to suit the current driving conditions in mere fractions of a second.

Several variants of the Volvo XC70 come All Wheel Drive. Using an electronically controlled hydraulic clutch, the AWD system distributes drive between the front and rear wheels to ensure the best possible road grip in all situations. The system features Instant Traction, which shifts drive at lightning speed from the front to the rear wheels when starting on a slippery or loose surface. Hill Descent Control (HDC) makes it easier to crawl in bottom gear on steep downhill slopes. Using the car’s brakes and engine torque, HDC controls the car’s speed and keeps it steady at about 10 km/h. This function is activated via a button in the instrument panel. In order to assist the driver when starting on an uphill gradient, the XC70 has a smart, electrically operated Power Parking Brake.

INTERIOR

The interior of the XC70 is an example of Scandinavian design at its best. Every little detail has been designed with a one hundred percent focus on both clean form and intelligent functionality. Comfort in the front seat features superb seats and ergonomically designed instruments – including an elegant, super-slim centre stack and an audio system of absolute world class. In addition to Sandstone Beige and Anthracite Black there is an Espresso Brown option where the warm dark colour of the seats, door panels and instrument panel contrasts with the sand-coloured detailing of the rest of the interior trim.

The integrated dual child booster cushions can be adjusted in two steps and the 40/20/40-split rear seat has integrated seat belts. The lightweight design of the rear backrest and the simple folding mechanism are other examples of improved functionality for passengers. Electrically folding rear seat headrests are also available in the XC70. Everything and everyone rides in first class. Even the luggage compartment and all its options and accessories have been designed to meet the very highest demands on luxury and intelligent functionality. Among the smart details in the luggage compartment is a storage space under the floor that is locked when the tailgate is shut.

DRIVELINE

The Volvo XC70 now comes with upgraded petrol engines. The six-cylinder, turbocharged T6 has a displacement of 3.0 litres and it now offers even sharper performance, thanks mainly to a reduction in internal friction. As in the all-new S60, it now offers 304 hp and no less than 440 Nm of torque. Maximum torque is achieved between 2100 and 4200 revs. This results in rapid acceleration and smooth driving properties. All-Wheel Drive is fitted as standard.

The six-cylinder 3.2-litre naturally aspirated engine has also been upgraded and features an improved crankshaft and less internal friction. It now offers 243 hp and maximum torque is 320 Nm. In order to meet US legislative requirements, there is also a PZEV (Partial Zero Emission Vehicle) variant that produces 231 hp and 300 Nm. The Volvo XC70 can also be specified with the high-performance twin-turbo diesel engine D5 that produces 205 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque.

The new five-cylinder 2-litre turbodiesel introduced in the all-new Volvo S60 is now available also in the Volvo XC70. The new five-cylinder D3 is in principle the same engine as the well-established 2.4-litre diesel, but its displacement has been reduced with a shorter stroke to optimize fuel consumption. The injection system has a different type of piezoelectric fuel injector compared with the D5 engine. These injectors minimize consumption with exceptionally rapid and precise injection pulses under high pressure. This promotes extremely efficient combustion. In order to give the car better driving properties, the turbocharger has been fine-tuned to provide high torque from low revs. In the Volvo XC70 the newly developed 2-litre diesel engine produces 163 hp and 400 Nm of torque. There is also a manual DRIVe turbo diesel 2.0 litre engine with a power output of 163 hp and emits 154 CO2/km and has a fuel consumption of 5.8 l/100 km.

SAFETY AND SUPPORT

The patented front body structure is divided into zones, each of which has a different task during the deformation sequence. The outer zones are responsible for most of the deformation. The closer the collision forces get to the passenger compartment, the less the material deforms. In order to give each zone the right properties, different grades of steel are used in different structures, a total of four different grades. Apart from regular body steel, three different grades of high-tensile steel are used: High Strength Steel, Extra High Strength Steel and Ultra High Strength Steel. To optimise side-impact protection, the body’s entire side structure features a well-balanced combination of high-tensile steel of different grades (High Strength Steel, Extra High Strength Steel and the extremely strong Ultra High Strength Steel).

The various components and grades of steel interact to minimise penetration into the passenger compartment. The aim is instead to get the entire car to move sideways – away from the colliding vehicle. The booster cushion, which is integrated in the rear seat, can be set at two heights, allowing children of different sizes to sit sufficiently high to see out through the windows yet at the same time get the most effective protection possible. The lower setting is intended for children between 115 and 140 cm in height and weighing between 22 and 36 kg, while the upper setting is designed for children measuring 95-120 cm and weighing between 15 and 25 kg. The Volvo XC70 can be equipped with integrated child booster cushions in both outer rear seats. Volvo’s support for avoiding neck injuries – WHIPS (Whiplash Protection System) – is one of the most effective on the market. In the event of a rear-end collision the front seat backrest accompanies the passenger’s initial body movement and dampens the incoming force rather like one’s hand does when catching a ball.

The all-new features further developed generation of WHIPS to ensure that the damping motion is gentle and to provide good contact between the head and head restraint throughout the impact sequence. Rear impacts represent a third of all reported accidents – and in more than 50 percent of these accidents, the driver doesn’t brake at all. Collision Warning with Auto Brake is a refined warning system that initially warns the driver and pre-charges the brakes. The brakes are automatically activated if the driver doesn’t act when a rear-end collision with a moving or stationary vehicle is imminent. Driver Alert Control alerts the driver when his or her concentration level is affected, for instance during long journeys.

Driver Alert Control monitors the car’s movements and assesses whether the vehicle is being driven in a controlled or uncontrolled way. Lane Departure Warning is activated via a button in the centre stack and it alerts the driver with a gentle warning sound if the car crosses one of the road markings without an obvious reason such as use of the turn indicator. The Volvo XC70 is also equipped with BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) and IDIS (Intelligent Driver Information System), two innovations that help the driver maintain better control over the traffic situation. BLIS registers if another vehicle is in the offset rear blind spot alongside the car and alerts the driver via a visual signal. IDIS helps stop the driver being distracted by non-essential information in pressing situations, for instance by delaying incoming phone calls or text messages.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) continually monitors the gap to the vehicles in front and automatically adjusts the car’s speed to ensure that this gap does not shrink too much. In order to contribute to the best possible visibility during night-time driving on curving and twisting roads, the car can be equipped with Active Bending Lights – swivelling headlamps that follow the sweeps and bends of the road. By using the Dual Xenon light technology it gives a 90 per cent boost to the driver’s vision round bends at night. The Dual Xenon gas discharge lamps expand the vision range at nights by about 230 per cent. This means the driver can gain a further 45 metres for braking.

Volvo has reinvigorated its signature C70 hardtop convertible for 2011 with a sleek new look and an extended array of standard luxury features that add up to even greater value. The enhancements begin on the outside where the front sports a redesigned appearance that conveys a more aggressive appearence. The new fascia, grille with enlarged iron mark and headlights display Volvo’s enhanced design language influenced by the revolutionary XC60 and upcoming next generation S60.

Bodywork details such as the front fenders have also been redesigned, contributing to the new look. The nose is more wedge-shaped and has been given added three-dimensional depth by moving some elements of the front both longitudinally and vertically. The new headlights and the décor around the fog lights, for instance, have been angled upward and toward the rear while the detailing of the lower grille and new, larger air intake reinforce the self-assured stance.

The exclusive high-tech LED taillights, similar in function to those found on the XC60, are the most noticeable update at the rear. The entire light unit is clearly integrated with the oval that frames the enhanced C70′s rear fascia. Rounding out the exterior revisions is the availability of Flamenco Red and Ember Black as dynamic new color choices.

Changes continue inside with updates that create a unique ambience. The instrument panel has been redesigned, giving it a wider, sleeker look. The surface of the panel has a new texture that enhances the feeling of quality. Exclusive new instruments, with gauges and graphics specific to the C70, are yet another example of how the model’s premium qualities have been enhanced.

Price: $39,950.
Invoice: $37,555.

The already lengthy roster of standard equipment grows even longer for 2011. A five-speed ‘Geartronic’ automatic transmission, Sovereign Hide leather, Sirius Satellite Radio and 17-inch ‘Sirona’ diamond-cut alloy wheels are now standard. New Cranberry leather can be specified as a no-charge option.

Meanwhile, the C70′s raison d’etre hasn’t changed. The sporting reflexes and weather-tight security of a turbocharged coupe coupled with the wide-open exhilaration and fresh-air freedom of a convertible appeal to passionate adventure seekers. A key ingredient to the C70′s magnetism is its three-piece retractable hardtop.  With the touch of a button, the retractable hardtop folds away quickly and smoothly into the trunk. Apart from the flexibility offered by the design it also makes for a quieter, more comfortable coupe. The large rear window glass offers outstanding outward visibility and improves body rigidity.

Driving pleasure excels in the C70 with its standard turbocharged T5 engine. Output for the 2.5-liter light-pressure turbo powerplant is 227 horsepower at 5,000 rpm with torque at 236 lb.-ft. from 1,500 to 4,800 rpm. The flat torque curve puts the power to the front wheels evenly and makes the car highly responsive.

As a Volvo, the C70 is fitted with an impressive array of safety features. An important part of side impact and rollover protection is the Inflatable Curtain (IC). In the C70 it has been given a unique design. The curtain has an extra stiff construction with double rows of slats that are slightly offset from each other. This allows them to remain upright and offer effective head protection even with the window open. The curtain also deflates slowly to provide protection should the car roll over. This is a unique solution in the automotive world, and a world first for a four-passenger convertible.

Interior Design and Special Features

The C70′s cabin is anchored by Volvo’s signature “floating” center stack, a slim panel that spans the gap between the dashboard and the center console. The stereo, Bluetooth and navigation functions are unintuitive, but the now-familiar “mode man” climate controls are foolproof. The optional wood trim dresses up the center stack, but even the standard aluminum trim looks classy. The optional Dynaudio sound system is one of the best-sounding open-air audio experiences available from any automaker.

The C70′s front seats are superbly supportive, and a button on each backrest slides the seats forward for rear-seat access. Rear legroom isn’t expansive, but it’s better than the norm, allowing children or small adults to ride in relative comfort. With the top up, trunk capacity is a generous 12.8 cubic feet, though with the top down it drops to less than half that at 6 cubes. A button in the trunk activates the C70′s standard Load Assist feature, which lifts the compacted roof assembly a few inches to create a bit more space for small items.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2011 Volvo C70 is a four-passenger luxury convertible with a retractable hardtop, and it’s available in only one trim level, the T5. It comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, a power-retractable hardtop, front and rear foglights and heated outside mirrors. Standard interior features include leather upholstery, eight-way power front seats (with driver memory), automatic dual-zone climate control, full power accessories, cruise control, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary audio/USB jacks and satellite and HD radio.

Five option packages are available for the C70, along with a variety of stand-alone upgrades. Going with the Multimedia package equips the C70 with a 14-speaker Dynaudio premium surround-sound system and a hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic. The Convenience package adds keyless ignition/entry and rear parking sensors, while the Climate package includes headlamp washers, rain-sensing wipers, heated front seats and an interior air quality sensor. The Dynamic package gets buyers 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive xenon headlamps and a sport steering wheel with aluminum inlays. Stand-alone options include a wind blocker, a blind-spot monitor, a portable navigation system and interior wood inlays.

Powertrains and Performance

The front-wheel-drive 2011 Volvo C70 is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine rated at 227 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic with manual-shift control is mandatory. This powertrain is EPA-rated at 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined.

Driving Impression

The 2011 Volvo C70′s rigid chassis keeps the structure flex-free over bumps, and its softly sprung suspension makes for agreeable commuting and cruising. The cabin is hushed with the top up and remains turbulence-free at sane velocities with the roof retracted. If you try to drive the C70 aggressively on a winding road, however, you’ll encounter numb steering, considerable body roll and pronounced brake dive. But for many convertible drivers, this will seem a small price to pay for the C70′s high comfort quotient. The turbocharged engine offers solid low-end torque and a distinctive soundtrack, even if it can’t keep the C70 abreast of pricier models like the BMW 335i and Infiniti G37.

Safety

The C70 comes standard with antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags for front passengers, roll bars that deploy in the case of a roll-over accident and whiplash-reducing front head restraints. In crash tests, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the C70 its highest rating of “Good” for frontal-offset and side impact protection.

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