More power, sophisticated all-wheel-drive, new refinement plus new XC90 highlight 2003 models from Volvo
For immediate release
More power, sophisticated all-wheel-drive, new refinement
plus new XC90 highlight 2003 models from Volvo
A horsepower boost for seven popular Volvo models, extended availability of the sophisticated Haldex all-wheel-drive system, enhanced audio offerings and a host of other new features plus the addition of the first Volvo SUV to the model line will make 2003 one of the busiest years for new Volvo products in recent history.
The new Volvo XC90 will steal the spotlight in the busy luxury sport utility vehicle segment when it reaches retailers' showrooms this fall. The next generation SUV with seating for seven passengers, industry-leading safety features and an aggressive starting price of $54,995, the 2003 Volvo XC90 is sure to carve out a share of the growing segment. The XC90 is built on the company's acclaimed large car platform.
Standard equipment in the new Volvo XC90 2.5T will include turbocharged 5-cylinder engine and 5-speed automatic transmission, Haldex electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system and the newly-developed Roll Over Protection System (ROPS), including a sophisticated computer-controlled system called Roll Stability Control (RSC), which helps reduce the risk of rolling over.
The line-topping Volvo XC90 T6 has a suggested list price of $59,995 and features a twin-turbo 6-cylinder engine and a long list of luxury and convenience features in addition to the extensive standard safety equipment.
Other changes for 2003 include:
- Increased horsepower for the compact Volvo S40 and V40 models: The standard 1.9-litre engine will turn out 170 hp (up from 160 hp) for 2003. Torque is 177 ft.-lbs. at 1800 rpm. All versions get a new keyless remote entry with folding key, new seats with improved lumbar support, a revised dash and other changes.
- Haldex AWD for V70 AWD, XC70: The highly refined, electronically controlled Haldex all-wheel-drive system that first appeared on Volvo concept cars will become the standard system in both the V70 AWD and XC70 (Cross Country) models. The Haldex system is now the standard AWD system on all Volvo vehicles equipped with all-wheel-drive.
- Increased horsepower for S60 AWD, V70 AWD, XC70: The powertrain for these popular vehicles gets an upgrade for 2003, as displacement moves to 2.5 litres (from 2.4) and output increases to 208 hp, up from 197 hp. Torque jumps to 236 ft.-lbs. at 1500 rpm (up from 210 ft.-lbs.). Changes to displacement and the variable valve timing system provide the enhanced output, while all versions qualify for Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) status in the U.S.
- Cross Country joins XC line: Effective with the start of the 2003 model year, the popular Cross Country joins the Volvo XC90 in the XC line, becoming the Volvo XC70.
- More horsepower, more refinement for C70 convertible: Both the standard 2.4-litre engine with low pressure turbo and optional 2.3-litre version with high pressure turbo get an injection of new power for 2003, as the standard engine moves up to 197 hp (from 190 hp) and the optional engine steps up to 242 hp (from 236 hp). Other changes include new "jeweled" headlamp and taillight treatments, dark "waterfall" grille and new 17-in. wheels. The C70 Coupe will not be offered.
- New standard audio systems: All S40 sedans and V40 wagons get new standard audio systems with integral CD and cassette.
Volvo automobiles are sold and serviced through 42 retailers across Canada. Volvo Cars of Canada Ltd. is headquartered in Toronto. The 2003 Volvo automobile line includes the flagship S80 luxury sedan, new XC90 sport utility vehicle, versatile V70 wagon and rugged XC70, exotic C70 convertible, the sporty S60 sedan and compact S40 and V40 models.
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Information:
Lisa Graham
Volvo Cars of Canada Ltd
(416)490-5834
lgraha11@volvocars.com
Doug Mepham
MacDonald & Co.
1-877-975-1575
doug.mepham@sympatico.ca
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09/02