Volvo at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show

Volvo has an unprecedented number of new model launches in 2006. So, hot on the heels of the world debut of the C30 Design Concept at the Detroit motor show last month and the all new Volvo C70 coupe/convertible arriving in UK showrooms next month, Volvo's third new model of the year – the all new S80 saloon – will make its world debut at the forthcoming Geneva motor show.

All New Volvo S80 saloon

Inside the new exterior lies a modern luxury interior with sleek Scandinavian design and refined materials. Volvo's 'Scandinavian Luxury' differs from the Teutonic style typical of some of the S80's premium rivals by radiating a simpler, more modern and distinctive feel. This includes a class leading audio system developed with Alpine, Dolby® and Dynaudio, especially for Volvo, featuring 5x130W D-class digital ICE power amplifiers from Alpine, Dolby® Pro Logic II Surround Sound™ and 12 Dynaudio speakers to create the finest, high quality sounds.

The new S80's driving dynamics have been benchmarked against its high profile competitors in the premium large executive saloon sector, including extensive evaluation on UK roads. Two powerful new petrol engines will be available for the new S80 – a 4.4-litre V8 engine offering 315 PS (with standard AWD) and a new 3.2-litre six-cylinder unit producing 238 PS. These will be available along with Volvo's five-cylinder 210 PS 2.5T petrol and two turbodiesels – a 185 PS D5 and 163 PS 2.4D.

As expected from Volvo, the all new S80 also features a number of active safety innovations and new personal security and convenience features. Collision Warning alerts the driver via an audible buzzer and display on the windscreen if the gap to the car in front closes so fast that a collision is likely, while a new Brake Support system boosts the braking force to ensure maximum braking.

The unique (optional) Personal Car Communicator (PCC) is a world first for the all new Volvo S80 and has a number of intelligent functions to provide extra personal security and convenience, including 'keyless drive'. Even before the driver gets to the car, he or she can check its security level. For example, the PCC unit can tell if the car is locked or whether the alarm has been activated, while a heart beat sensor warns if someone is hiding inside the car.

C30 Design Concept

The C30 Design Concept – a sporty two door coupe – which made a sensational world debut at last month's Detroit motor show, will now be seen in Europe for the first time at the Geneva show.

Volvo has acknowledged that the styling of this 'Design Concept' is close to the production version of the Volvo C30 which will make its world debut at the Paris motor show in September. The C30 will be the smallest model in the Volvo range and its key rivals will be the Audi A3 and BMW 1-Series.

Also at the show…

Other new model highlights on the Volvo stand at Geneva include the all new C70 coupe/convertible, which is due to arrive in UK showrooms on 18 March, with a retractable hard top that folds away in 30 seconds and offers space for four adults to sit in comfort.