VOLVO XC60 PRODUCTION LEAK

Don't you just love the internet? Thanks to some clever bugger Volvo's world premier of their new XC60 SUV at the Geneva Motor Show has been ruined by these leaked images of the production car. In one instant you can easily come to the conclusion that Volvo's new design DNA is bang on the money. This is one great looking car, or should that be SUV? Either way, the future looks to be bright for the Swedes. Thankfully they've kept close to the concept shown nearly 12 months ago, as the new angled snout, LED ru! nning lights, squeezed shoulder line, and dramatically tampered tail lights remain in all their glory. What's more, even in this horrific shade of gold the XC60 still looks the dogs bullocks. Why the hell would you pass one of these up for a BMW X3 or Land Rover Freelander 2. That's like saying 'No I won't go to David Jones, I'll stick to Target'.

Inside we can see the evolution of Volvo's trademark floating center console. Like the concept, the fascia of the console is now one piece, running all the way up to the air vents. Don't be too concerned by the Ikea-like birch seen here, for those of us with taste you will undoubtedly be able to stick to aluminum trim. Sat-Nav and info screens for the climate control and sound system are now higher up on the dash, closer to the driver's line of sight. All in all it continues Volvo's excellent track record on! high quality, stylish interiors that don't make you feel underdone. Those lovely, textured, soft touch plastics and brushed dials will worry Audi.

All in all, this bodes well for the upcoming S60 saloon, which will essentially be the compact executive version of the XC60. In recent years Volvo has beaten the Germans at their own game in many areas and this is surely set to continue with this new generation from the Swedish-cool car maker. If the dynamics manage to improve on the solid foundation of existing models, then that ought to prove all of those Volvo doubters wrong. If it doesn't then so be it. Let them buy their BMWs and Mercs. All they're buy! ing is an inferior car for more money...