Volvo has confirmed that it will revamp its entire model lineup by 2018.
The Swedish automaker, owned by Chinese company Geely, began this overhaul last October when it introduced the all-new XC90. This reveal was a major turning point for the company as this vehicle is the first in the lineup to ride on the new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. The XC90 also embraces the design language that will inspire all the models to follow it.
The next car on the docket, according to Dennis Nobelius, Volvo’s head of the Large Cars line, is the flagship S80. This aging sedan will be replaced by a new model called the S90, which will share many of its properties, including major mechanical components, with the XC90. These shared pieces will not only put the S90 in a position to rival upscale vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5-Series, but it will also benefit Volvo economically.
Soon after the release of the S90, Volvo will release two variants of the flagship. The first one will be an extended-wheelbase version to be offered to exclusive markets like China and the United States. The second will be a station wagon to be called the V90.
Each of the aforementioned models will be built on the SPA platform when they are due for an update in 2017.
The entry-level 40-badged lineup will also get updated and expanded, beginning with the small V40 hatchback that will use a modular platform developed by Volvo and Geely. Volvo will add a four-door sedan and tall crossover to this lineup, which are likely to be sold in the U.S.
While we are all excited to see what Volvo has in store, don’t expect to see the upcoming models at most auto shows, as Volvo has announced it will be attending only three a year.
