Easter is known as a hot buying season for auto enthusiasts. But Volvo has additional three good reasons to be jubilant about Easter. This is because its trio of models has scooped awards in the Used Car Honours 2007. The commendations for the XC90, S60, and V50 were published by Auto Express magazine. In connection to this, the Swedish automaker has expressed its plans to offer a wider range of older models through Volvo Selected Used Cars, its approved pre-owned scheme.
At the Auto Express Used Car awards, the Volvo XC90, the acclaimed SUV from the automaker, was adjudged an outright winner in the off-road 4x4 category. There was further success for the Volvo S60 sedan and the Volvo V50 sports wagon. The cars both achieved the Commended status in the compact executive and estate car classes respectively.
Volvo has already established an impressive history in prestigious awards. As a fact, this is the second year that the XC90 has scooped the honor for the Best 4x4 Off-roader. Additionally, this is the third year in succession that Volvo has claimed three trophies.
For the 2007 Auto Express awards, judges have intimated full praise for the Volvo trio. They have this to say: "The Volvo XC90 is still the must-have off-roader. A top Euro NCAP rating and the marque's reputation for dealer service and reliability combine to make the XC90 a desirable used car that's also a sensible buy."
The Volvo XC90, a mid-size luxury crossover SUV which has debuted at the New York Auto Show, is sharing the P2 platform with its siblings - the Volvo S80 and other larger Volvo cars. The remarkable include the 4.4 L Yamaha V8 engine that produces 311 units of horsepower and 325 ft&bulllbf of torque. For this model year, the car was updated to deliver a subtly-restyled front and rear, and a more luxurious interior.
In regards with the Volvo S60, judges have this to say: "When it comes to value in this sector, there's only one place to look. With plenty of kit, loads of space and some of the most relaxing seats we've experienced, the Volvo S60 is a soothing choice." They also gave unrestricted praises in favor of the V50. They said, "With a 417-litre boot that grows to 1,307 litres, the Volvo V50 isn't the biggest load-lugger, but it's one of the most stylish. Top-rate safety and build quality complete the package."
Accepting the prestigious awards was Anne Woodward, the used car programme manager. "Our continued success in the used car market is reflected in the number of visitors to our website, www.volvoselectedusedcars.com, where 280,000 used Volvos are viewed online each month - and that's a significant increase on last year's figure."
Woodward also intimated the automaker's plans that will appeal to cost-conscious motorists looking to buy a used Volvo. "Last year 12 percent of our used car sales were of vehicles aged three to four years. In 2007 our goal is to get that much nearer to 20 percent. Offering a wider range of older models means more customers than ever will be able to afford a Selected Used Volvo. And that means more people will benefit from the high standards of vehicle preparation and guaranteed peace-of-mind motoring provided by our franchised dealer network," she said.
