Volvo News: Volvo Plans To Enter Compact Crossover Arena In 2018

[William Maley]

There looks to be a smaller crossover on the horizon for Volvo. Sources tell Automotive News Europe that the Swedish automaker is planning on introducing a new compact crossover, possibly named the XC40, in 2018. The crossover will debut a new platform called compact modular architecture (CMA) and will go on to underpin the next-generation V40 and XC40 a year later.

 

Volvo CEO Hakan Samuelsson has said that compact crossover is priority for the automaker, but declined to say the company would launch it. Samuelsson did say their future lineup of compacts would have in-house powertrains including plug-in hybrid models and self-driving technologies.

 

“We will not be sourcing engines from other manufacturers. Instead, we will be offering three- and four-cylinder versions of our own new engine program. We will also offer a plug-in hybrid for the compact models. Autonomous driving will be an option we will offer in our cars as of 2020, also in the compact lineup,” said Samuelsson.

 

Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required)

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[G. David Felt]

Makes sense for the FWD/AWD auto maker to have a compact / subcompact entry. Glad to see they also are acknowledging the need for a plug-in hybrid.

 

Pass on the self driving and other take over safety gear.

[daves87rs]

Their own engines? Be interested to see how heavy these compacts  are...