For years, Volvo has impressed drivers with unprecedented quality, performance and luxury. Of course, that doesn't mean they're not constantly working to improve their lineup. The latest innovations from Volvo will take shape in refreshed designs, increased fuel economy and even better engine performance. The overall goal? To move further into the luxury segment.

How, exactly? Well, to start, a completely original mid-sized car will hit McLaughlin Volvo by late 2013 or early 2014. It's rumored to replace the current-model Volvo XC90, but the implications of that have yet to play out. We do know, however, that all vehicles coming from the Swedish automaker will feature smaller, turbocharged four-cylinder engines, as well as hybrid and plug-in variants of their most popular vehicles.

If you've been following Volvo news lately, you'll know that they've been making an effort to create engines that are simultaneously efficient and powerful, while maintaining the standards of luxury. Stefan Jacoby, CEO of Volvo Car Corp., says that luxury and engine displacement will no longer go hand-in-hand, and that "the time for counting cylinders is over."¹

He added that in coming model years, we can expect to see a diesel plug-in hybrid that will achieve an EPA combined rating a 123 mpg, and will produce up to 440 lb-ft of torque. In electric mode, the vehicle will have a range of about 30 miles, and drivers will be able to choose their driving mode.

Volvo will offer the first peek into this new powertrain at the Detroit auto show in January. We suspect we'll also get to see what Volvo means when they say they're aiming for "cultivated luxury"² They've already hinted that this will mean technological and design changes, as Chris Benjamin, Studio Design Director says, "We are exploring the full range of possibilities...the focus is not about having a product you use. It is more of an experience."³

How will this all play out? Be sure to check back with McLaughlin Volvo, 4101 41st Street Moline, IL 61265 after the auto show in Detroit in January. In the meantime, we invite you to check out the fuel-efficient and expertly designed new Volvo models available today. contact us via our website to learn more about any particular model or to schedule a test drive.

Source: ^1,2,3http://www.autoweek.com/article/20111121/CARNEWS/111129994