Volvo's redesigned six for 2013
2013-02-21 08:46
UPGRADES, REDESIGNS AND TWEAKS: The new Volvo S60 sports a redesigned front which the Swedish automaker hopes will give it a more "purposeful, dynamic appearance".
GENEVA, Switzerland - Swedish automaker Volvo has added design tweaks and improvements to six of its products for 2013. The models affected include the 60 (S60, V60 and XC60) and 70 (V70, XC70) ranges.
Volvo is also adding design changes for its S80.
SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN
Lex Kerssemakers, Volvo's senior vice-president for product strategy and vehicle line management, said: "This is the most extensive development of existing models in our company's history. Each enhancement is designed around our customers' needs. We've focused on quality and attention to detail to give these dynamic models a major boost and sharpen their competitiveness.
"The S60 and XC60 are our best-selling models in several important markets and the innovative V60 Plug-in Hybrid has had a flying start. We've been listening very carefully to our customers to make improvements that ensure that we make these successful cars more attractive."
The Swedish automaker hopes to emphasise its "Scandinavian design" with a raft of changes. Its 2013 range sees redesigned exterior elements and interior improvements such as the addition of wood and leather. The S60, V60 or XC60 in R-Design specification will get sport seats.
Volvo project director Patrik Widerstrand said: "The new sport seat has great hugging side-support all the way from the thighs to the shoulders so the seat keeps the driver firmly in position when cornering fast.
"We've had nearly 100 people of all shapes and sizes test this seat and received a really enthusiastic response. We've also made adjustments to the seat back so it provides more legroom for passengers in the rear."
Check out the new models:
2013 Volvo S60
2013 Volvo V60
2013 Volvo XC60
2013 Volvo V70
2013 Volvo XC70
2013 Volvo S80
Apart from design changes, Volvo has added some new tech to its 2013 model line-up.
Volvo's HMI (Human-Machine Interface) functionality Sensus has been extended with an optional accessory that adds intuitive technology that enables connectivity and access to the internet.
The Sensus Connected Touch turns the vehicle's display into a touch screen that can be used even when wearing gloves.
Volvo project director Patrik Widerstrand said: "The voice-activation system works on all music sources connected to the Connected Touch. It is also possible to share a Wi-Fi network with everyone in the car."
The Connected Touch can be fitted to Sensus-equipped older models.
The automaker's Active High Beam Control does high/low beam for the driver.
Models equipped with a rain sensor can also be fitted with an electrically heated windscreen. Drivers who hate cold winter days can now have their model fitted with a heatable steering wheel.
