IAB Report - Volvo India teases the S80 facelift, launching this quarter

Volvo Auto India has teased the Volvo S80 facelift on its Facebook page. The S80 is the oldest model in its category and the next generation product is not expected before 2015. When it does come, it would be based on Volvo's own Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) featuring Volvo's Drive-e four cylinder engines. The current Volvo S80 uses Ford's architecture and engines.

A reliable source confirms to IAB that its local launch is planned in the first quarter. Like other Volvos, the S80 is a CBU.

The S80 facelift had its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show last year. Changes include new front and rear bumpers create a ‘stretched' effect endow the car with a lower and wider stance. New rectangular Daytime Running Lights take their place at the front, wider grille, while the taillamps are rounded off to make the car appear closer to the ground. Chrome exterior highlights sum up the cosmetic changes, giving it a more premium appearance. Volvo offers European buyers the option of fitting 19-inch wheels.

The Swiss-premiered S80 also gained equipment, integrating the "Sensus Connected Touch" infotainment system with a 7-inch display. The infotainment system lets the user browse the internet, access Google Maps and stream internet radio.

Active High Beam Control (which autonomously switches the headlamps between high and low beams), a heated windscreen, and a heated steering wheel were the other inclusions.

The interior saw mild changes, giving customers a wider palette of colors. The leather for the seats is sourced from the Bridge of Weir in Scotland for a softer and natural feel, the Swedes said. Mechanically the car had the same engines, but at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year, Volvo had announced its new family of Drive-e engines for all its carlines, which is yet to launch in India.