For many, the Volvo brand has always whispered luxury. We say "whispered" mainly because the automaker has worked to deliver high-class vehicles that are also discreet. Rather than flashing money signs, past Volvo models have been a bit more modest. While this trend doesn't appear to be changing anytime soon, company officials have noted that the brand will soon be climbing up more polished rungs of the luxury ladder.

Beginning for the 2014 model year, Volvo will deliver models produced on the company's new lightweight SPA (Scalable Platform Architecture) platform. How exactly will this look? For one, new Volvo models will no longer carry five- and six-cylinder engines. With the goal of fuel-efficiency in mind, lighter threes and fours will be the name of the game. Beyond the powertrain, the brand will begin to foster more "man-machine interface."¹ Excluding the realm of safety, the automaker will cut back on electronic control systems and put the driver back in driving.

Models released starting in 2014 will also feature a more refined design and sophisticated styling. According to Richard Monturo, VP for Global Marketing, Volvo will target "customers who desire 'cultivated luxury'." He says, "For us, the back story behind a product is the status. It's not just 'Look at me'."²

Eventually, the luxury brand will create a whole new line of models in exchange for the current Volvo S60 and Volvo S80. For now, we still have plenty of these models and others available at Secor Volvo, 575 Broad St. New London, CT 06320. Volvo designers note that driving one of their models is not so much about the product as the experience. We couldn't agree more. That's why we invite you to contact Secor Volvo and set up a time to test drive any model you see in our showroom.

Source: ^1,2http://www.autoweek.com/article/20111121/CARNEWS/111129994