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Volvo XC70 and XC60

This exclusive picture shows how Volvo's all-new BMW X3 rival will look. Plus we've also spotted the XC70 crossover replacement being tested

Baby Volvo 4x4 will use some parts from Land Rover's Freelander

By Ross Pinnock

19th September 2006

The firm's striking new compact SUV has been influenced by the popularity of its full-sized off-roader, and looks every inch the miniature XC90.
 
Despite the family resemblance, the new model will actually share its under­pinnings with the new Freelander from sister company Land Rover

Set to make its world debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January, it gets a traditional Volvo grille at the front. This is joined by smart projector-style headlamps, while the pronounced shoulder line is another trademark styling cue.

The newcomer is expected to wear the XC60 badge, rather than being called the XC50 - as was previously thought - and will borrow heavily from the look of its big brother.

Despite the family resemblance, the new model will actually share its under­pinnings with the new Freelander from sister company Land Rover. This running gear will also be used in a fresh compact SUV from parent firm Ford. The chassis design will ensure the Volvo has decent performance in the rough stuff, but while the Freelander offers unrivalled mud-plugging ability, the XC60 will focus on safety.

It's likely to share its range of petrol and diesel engines with the Land Rover, and this will include a 158bhp 2.2-litre diesel, plus Volvo's latest 230bhp six-cylinder petrol powerplant.

Our spies have also been following a heavily disguised proto­type of the new XC70 undergoing testing in the US. Its egg-crate grille is clearly visible through the heavy plastic cladding, and the jacked-up crossover model is expected to feature sleek S80-inspired styling.

The new soft-roader is based on the next-generation V70 estate, and our image below reveals how that model will look. Key features will include a tra­ditional upright rear windscreen, high-mounted tail-light clusters and a full complement of safety kit.

The current load-lugging V70 is one of the oldest models in the company's line-up. Its replacement - including the tall-riding XC70 - is expected to hit Volvo showrooms next year.

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