2010 Aprilia Scarabeo 500 IE Scooter

2010 Aprilia Scarabeo 500 IE Scooter

The unique APRILIA SCARABEO 500ie stands out instantly from the crowd. A perfect combination of classic lines and modern details that is destined from the start to set new trends. Outstanding ergonomics and many intelligent technical solutions make life in the saddle easier, such as the height adjustable windshield and incredible load capacity with the largest helmet compartment ever seen on a high-wheeled scooter.

The Aprilia Scarabeo 500 i.e. also offers plenty of performance to satisfy the needs of users who want a protective, automatic, light motorbike capable of tackling medium to long range journeys.

Responsive, light and fast, and with superior levels of comfort worthy of a motorcycle, ease and effectiveness are two of the greatest strengths of the Scarabeo 500 i.e. Its compact size makes it perfect for beating the city traffic and fitting into cramped parking spaces, while its lusty engine makes overtaking practically instantaneous - all you need is a gentle twist of the wrist to leave the traffic far behind. The Aprilia Scarabeo 500 i.e. is the lightest vehicle of its category, a merit that combined with the excellent performance of its engine guarantees a record weight to power ratio that translates into enjoyable, easy and intuitive riding. The oversized braking system with combined front/rear braking action and with the wide tyres are results of the designer's intentions to create an inherently safe vehicle, which is one of the factors that makes Aprilia Scarabeo 500 i.e. much more than just a scooter.

Rider and passenger comfort are always a priority for Aprilia's designers. An incredible amount of care went into defining the ergonomics and equipment of the Aprilia Scarabeo 500 i.e. to make life on board as relaxed as possible. Plenty of space for both rider and passenger means that even longer journeys can be tackled in total comfort. The saddle is just 785 mm from the ground, while the footrest platform is narrowed so as not to obstruct the legs, this means that riders of all statures can easily reach the ground.

The lusty 4 stroke single-cylinder engine, which represents the state of the art for scooter engines, is amazingly efficient and characterised by four valve timing, efficient liquid-cooling and a latest generation automatic transmission. The fuel system uses an evolved electronic injection system that not only considerably cuts consumption, but makes management of power delivery optimum, so riding is a great pleasure. A dynamic balancer countershaft reduces vibration for superb comfort. With its maximum power of 29 kW (39 HP) at 7,500 rpm and 43 Nm torque at 5,500 rpm, the Scarabeo 500 i.e. offers top performance that is entirely comparable to multi-cylinder engines. Ultra-light weight gives the Aprilia SCARABEO 500 i.e. one of best power to weight ratios (6.5 kg/kW) of any scooter on the market.

Like all Aprilia vehicles, also the chassis of the Scarabeo makes the most of the enormous amount of know how built up in years of experience and racing.

Reconciling maximum comfort with maximum riding pleasure was the goal of Aprilia engineers when designing the Scarabeo 500 i.e. The result is a scooter with a weight distribution almost the same as that of a motorcycle, which made it possible to achieve exceptional riding and handling qualities while keeping intact the proverbial stability at high speeds, feature of all Aprilia products. Riding a Aprilia Scarabeo 500 i.e. is a real pleasure - not only because of its inimitable design, but also because the involving riding character typical of all Aprilia products makes the Scarabeo 500 i.e. an extraordinarily dynamic vehicle, resulting in a rewarding ride even on the daily commute.

2010 Aprilia Scarabeo 500 IE Scooter

The double cradle frame is made from high strength steel tubing and has been designed to ensure excellent torsional rigidity and outstanding strength. A rigid, efficient frame that ensures the Scarabeo 500 i.e. is truly stable at high speeds.

The telescopic hydraulic front fork with stanchions at full 40 mm in diameter ensures superb steering precision and, with its generous wheel travel, has an excellent capacity for absorbing bumps.

The engine-transmission unit also acts as a swingarm and is linked to two dual-action shock absorbers. The spring preload setting is adjustable to four different positions, for optimum damping in all load and road surface conditions.

Comfort and rideability were also achieved by adopting large diameter wheels (16" at the front and 14" at the rear) with wheel rims shod with tubeless, motorcycle-sized tyres (110/70 at the front and 150/70 at the rear) to guarantee perfect road holding. The large size of the tyres also increases utmost safety when braking.

By using the integrated braking system, the rider has at his disposal an always powerful, safe and easy to handle braking force on any kind of road surface. SCARABEO 500 i.e. is fitted with large diameter discs: the two 260 mm front discs with floating callipers are backed up by a 240 mm rear disc.

In spite of its compact size, low saddle and high wheels, the Scarabeo 500 i.e. boasts a helmet compartment worthy of a grand touring scooter able to easily house a flip up helmet and other small objects, and even an A3 size briefcase, as no part of the compartment is less than 15 cm wide. There is also a lockable oddments storage compartment behind the leg shield.

The analogue and digital instruments with a white background and classic graphics provide the rider with all the information necessary, while the small display also includes a fuel level gauge. The saddle can also be opened using a remote control button that makes opening the compartment key-free, just one more convenience in day to day use.

In keeping with the Aprilia philosophy, Scarabeo 500 i.e. comes fully equipped with everything as standard, including an electronic antitheft system with remote control.

Ford Fiesta Rally Car-Car Wallpepar

POSTERS-Car Wallpepar

2010 Piaggio Gilera GP800 Sport Scooter

2010 Piaggio Gilera GP800 Sport Scooter

A powerful 75 HP 90° V-twin, 839 cc, 4 valves per cylinder, a double cradle steel frame, a motorcycling type of swingarm and chain final drive: these are the special ingredients for the most powerful and fastest scooter in the world.

For 2010, Gilera GP800 has been given a more modern style with new and elegant accents, and it will even be more functional. Details like the new saddle opening and support device, a rug for the under-seat storage area and the new flexible coupling further exalt the comfort and convenience of the world's fastest scooter.

The power of its amazing 75 bhp engine is tamed by a superbly rigid frame and transmitted to the road by a unique chassis. The Gilera GP 800 offers all the comfort and convenience of a scooter around town, plus the performance of a true sport tourer on the open road. And when stationary, the GP 800’s aggressive beauty simply exudes power and technology.

The Gilera GP 800 is designed for the rider who wants all the practicality of a scooter but longs for the sort of performance and emotions that until now only a motorcycle could hope to deliver.

Even urban commuting becomes a whole new, thrilling and satisfying experience. The Gilera GP 800 boasts the unbeatable usability of a scooter, thanks to elegant, stylish and classical sporting lines, great manoeuvrability, automatic CVT transmission with plenty of engine braking, perfect ergonomics and the carrying capacity of the classic under-seat storage compartment.

But the destiny of the Gilera GP 800 is sure to be determined by its unique performance. Power, top speed, and acceleration are all unprecedented, so it’s only natural to look beyond the city for satisfaction. The Gilera GP 800’s advanced engine and chassis really show their mettle on country roads, opening up new horizons for medium and long range touring.On the open road, the excellent protection afforded by the leg shield and electrically adjustable windshield deliver unrivalled comfort for rider and passenger.

2010 Piaggio Gilera GP800 Sport Scooter

Everything about the Gilera GP 800 has been designed, developed and made to rule the road. Each individual stylistic choice and technical solution speaks of a revolutionary machine, conceived around the first ever 90° V twin scooter engine, and designed to dominate the world of scooters. The 839.3 cc engine features liquid cooling, Magneti Marelli electronic fuel injection, a single cam, 4 valves per cylinder and twin spark ignition. It develops a mighty 75 bhp at the crank with a torque of 73 Nm, 95% of which is already available at 3,500 rpm.

These specifications are totally unique in the scooter world. On the road they translate into an extraordinary reserve of constantly available power and a uniquely smooth ride. Thanks to CVT (continuously variable transmission) with engine braking effect, urban commuting is effortless and relaxing, with the ideal ratio automatically selected. But when the road leaves the town and opens up, the GP 800’s V twin engine really comes into its own, placing Gilera’s flagship scooter in a class of its own.

The Gilera GP 800 engine features dry sump lubrication, and is secured rigidly to the frame by vibration-damping rubber mountings. Final drive can therefore be entrusted to a robust but sophisticated, Regina Z-ring sealed chain.

The exhaust system is totally decoupled from the frame to minimise vibrations. This 2-in-1 system terminates in an aggressively styled silencer with a black heat shield that adds plenty of character to the styling of the GP 800, and emphasises its elegant but sporting nature.

The amazing performance of the GP 800’s V twin engine have been achieved in full respect of the environment. Emissions have been minimised by an advanced closed loop injection system with Lambda oxygen sensor and an exhaust with three-way catalytic converter. Fully integrated control of the electronic ignition system also ensures that the GP 800 conforms to strict Euro 3 standards.

The twin cylinder power plant has been designed, developed and manufactured entirely in Pontedera, the historical home of Piaggio and one of the world’s most advanced engine development and production centres. This engine is born from the challenge that the Piaggio Group has taken on: to offer an ever more sophisticated customer a product that guarantees performance, reliability and safety while also leading the field in respect for the environment.

The Gilera GP 800’s double cradle frame has been designed around the engine to embrace it and convert its exuberant power into rigorous, precision control. The frame is made from a tubular steel trellis with steel reinforcement and strengthening plates. Excellent torsional and flexural rigidity has been built in at all stages of the development and road testing process, to deliver an amazing sense of control. The Gilera GP 800 corners like a sports motorcycle, reaching angles of lean of 45° while still delivering neutral handling and amazing road holding. The GP 800 holds the most precise lines through fast bends, obeying rider input at all times without ever exceeding performance limits. Absolute control is the result. With its new steering angle greater than the previous version, the GP800 acquires manoeuvrability when starting off and in city riding. The generous power of the GP 800’s engine demands a superbly rigid chassis. Simulations and road tests have demonstrated that the GP 800 has a coefficient of stability at full power similar to a motorcycle and almost twice as high as a conventional scooter.

The front wheel fork, also in aluminium, is now black and has 41 mm stanchions. Once again, stability and safety, even under harsh braking, are at a level never previously found on any scooter.

The hollow five spoke wheels, 16” at the front and 15” at the rear, are manufactured from aluminium alloy in a lost core, gravity casting process to minimise unsuspended mass and guarantee motorcycle-type precision handling. Overall performance is also helped by standard equipment radial tyres, 120/70 at the front and 160/60 at the rear.

The braking system is fitted in the front with Brembo Gold Series double piston floating callipers and two 300 mm semi-floating steel discs, now gold in colour. In the rear, the double opposed piston floating calliper interacts with a 280 mm steel disc, also in the new shade of gold. The brake pipes are covered with metal plait. The adjustable 4-position levers and new brake pumps are further proof of the attention paid in designing the braking system.

The GP 800 is even equipped with a parking brake operated by a practical lever on the right of the leg shield.

The GP 800’s dashboard, which combines analogue and digital instruments, is generous and elegant, as a scooter of this class demands. The easy to read, classical rev counter and speedometer are accompanied by a fuel gauge. The LCD display incorporates a total odometer, two trip counters and a clock, and displays outside temperature, distance travelled on reserve, a service LED and an engine coolant temperature gauge. Information on the LCD display can be selected quickly and easily from a mode button behind the right hand control block.

Completing the instrument panel is a set of warning lights for the following functions: turn indicators, oil pressure, fuel reserve, high beam lights, injection check, hazard light and parking brake engaged. A LED in the middle of the speedometer flashes when the electronic antitheft system with engine immobilizer is engaged.

2011 Infiniti M37 328-hp will go on sale in the U.S. in spring 2010

2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid

Infiniti confirmed today that it will offer its first production hybrid ever in its 20-years of existence with the 2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid. The model will join the Infiniti M lineup in spring 2011.

Infiniti said that its hybrid system consists of a single electric-motor/twin-clutch arrangement, mated to a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6. The first-clutch is installed between the V6 engine and the electric motor, which Infiniti says allows for a more responsive drive. Infiniti said that the M35 Hybrid, which will carry a lithium-ion battery pack, has the ability to run solely on electric-power under certain driving conditions.

Additional technical details will be announced closer to launch. The 328-hp 2011 Infiniti M37 and the 400-hp 2011 Infiniti M56 will go on sale in the U.S. in spring 2010.

2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid

  

Here are the Press Release:

Infiniti Confirms M35 Hybrid Production

Infiniti today confirmed that its first production hybrid vehicle will be part of the recently announced line of 2011 Infiniti M luxury performance sedans, which are scheduled to go on sale in spring 2010 at Infiniti dealers nationwide. The Infiniti M35 hybrid is expected to arrive about 12 months later as a 2012 model. It is Infiniti’s first hybrid in its 20-year existence, as well as the cleanest and most economical car in Infiniti’s history.

Realizing the high performance/low emissions promise of the recent Infiniti Essence concept car, the M35 Hybrid has been designed and engineered to add to, not take away from, the driving experience, a key part of any Infiniti’s appeal. The M35 Hybrid is based on the all-new M, which itself picks up styling cues from Essence, the show-stopper that made its debut at the Geneva Auto Show early in 2009.

The M35 Hybrid maintains a high performance luxury sedan profile, overlaying it with the fuel economy and CO2 emissions of a smaller car, while delivering driving flair to please any enthusiast – complete with charismatic V6 and rear-wheel drive handling.

Infiniti’s hybrid system, developed solely within Infiniti’s parent group, is a single electric motor/twin clutch arrangement. Innovatively, the first clutch is installed between the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 and the electric motor. The result of this configuration, where all components act on a single prop shaft to the rear differential, is a consistent driving feel under all conditions with linear performance and the “direct responses” that the engineers sought.

The electric motor acts as both propulsion unit, boosting the V6 in “power assist” mode when maximum acceleration is required, and also as a generator. Along with charging the battery in the normal way, the motor recovers energy otherwise lost during deceleration and braking.

The M Hybrid can also run solely on its electric motor in certain driving conditions, furthering fuel efficiency and optimizing energy usage across the widest possible range of driving conditions. Details of driving range, performance and transmission will be released later.

As expected of Infiniti, several new technologies are introduced in the new M35 Hybrid, including a “laminated” lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack that is the same size as conventional batteries but offers twice the power. Lamination enhances the pack’s cooling performance, while temperature stability is further improved by the use of manganese positive electrodes. An end result of this is exceptional battery reliability.

The M35 Hybrid joins conventional engine-equipped 2011 M versions – including a new high-performance diesel V6 for Western Europe – as the first Ms to be sold across all of Infiniti’s world markets, currently 33 countries. All of the new-generation Infiniti M models are on target to beat their predecessors on fuel consumption and emissions – despite across-the-board performance improvements – thanks to a range of efficiency-enhancing measures.

2010 Aprilia Scarabeo 300 Special Scooter

2010 Aprilia Scarabeo 300 Special Scooter

The Aprilia Scarabeo 300 Special is the natural completion of the Scarabeo range, a totally modern engine capacity for a timeless scooter which, in this configuration, offers an extra touch of sportiness and dynamism. Aprilia Scarabeo 300 Special is just the right compromise between performance, compactness, flexibility and riding pleasure, all emphasised by carefully designed graphics and a touch of grit provided by the masterful use of black in the wheel rims and in other details. A lower windshield, new chrome accents and the new instrument panel surround contribute further to the sporty feel of this truly special version of the Scarabeo.

With class leading ergonomics and equipment, Aprilia Scarabeo 300 Special offers a relaxing and safe ride. Plenty of space for both rider and passenger means that even longer journeys can be tackled in total comfort. The low saddle, at just 785 mm from the ground, and the contoured footrest platform, which narrows so as not to obstruct the legs, mean that riders of all statures can easily reach the ground. Created with an almost obsessive attention to detail, Aprilia Scarabeo 300 Special offers outstanding value for money.

In 2010, Aprilia Scarabeo 300 Special is enriched with the “Class” version, further proof of style for whoever wants a combination of agility and the functionality of the most glamorous high-wheeled vehicle of the sector with greater comfort and richness in details.

The standard windshield guarantees better protection, while the 35 litre rear top box painted in matching colour provides more load capacity.

In the special “Class” series, the unmistakable style of the Scarabeo coincides with the introduction of the new instrument panel graphics, the new colour of the saddle and the dedicated Class Green colour.

The 300 cc engine strikes the perfect balance between performance, lightness and agility. A contemporary engine size for superior torque and acceleration, making this an even more relaxing, quick and safe vehicle to ride.

The four valve single cylinder electronic fuel injection engine represents the cutting edge in its category. An anti-vibration countershaft and an automatic transmission that is perfectly matched to the character of the engine make the Scarabeo 300 Special a responsive machine that is extremely comfortable to ride in all situations.

The engine is impressive and extremely easy for anyone to handle: with 22.3 HP at 7,500 rpm and a maximum torque (22 Nm) available at just 6,500 rpm, Aprilia Scarabeo 300 Special offers outstanding performance and not only; the precisely calibrated injection system ensures reduced emissions and fuel consumption figures comparable to a smaller engined vehicle, which - coupled with the 10-litre fuel tank - offers the range of a grand tourer.

2010 Aprilia Scarabeo 300 Special Scooter

The main objective that the engineers at Noale always set for themselves is to reconcile utmost comfort with riding pleasure. The result of this - in the case of the Scarabeo - is an almost motorcycle-like weight distribution and, as a consequence, class-leading handling and agility.

The double cradle frame is made from high strength steel tubing and has been designed to ensure excellent torsional rigidity and outstanding strength. A rigid, efficient frame that ensures the Scarabeo 300 Special is totally stable at high speeds.

The telescopic hydraulic front fork ensures superb steering precision and, with its generous wheel travel of 104 mm, has an excellent capacity for absorbing bumps.

The engine-transmission unit also acts as a swingarm and is linked to two dual-action adjustable shock absorbers. The spring preload setting is adjustable to four different positions, for optimum damping in all load and road surface conditions.

Large diameter wheels (16" at the front and 14" at the rear) and tubeless, motorcycle-sized tyres (110/70 at the front and 140/70 at the rear) offer the peace of mind of utterly dependable road holding.

The combined braking system - with the left hand lever braking both wheels simultaneously - ensures powerful, safe and easily controlled braking at all times and in all road conditions. The 260 mm front brake disc is backed up by a 240 mm disc at the rear.

Load carrying capacity has always been a deciding characteristic in choosing a scooter, and a lack of storage space under the saddle has always been the Achilles heel of big wheeled scooters. This, however, is not true of the Scarabeo 300 Special. In spite of its compact size, low saddle and high wheels, Scarabeo 300 boasts a helmet compartment large enough to hold a flip up helmet and other small objects and even an A3 format briefcase, as no part of the compartment is less than 15 cm wide. There is also a lockable glovebox compartment behind the leg shield.

A rear top box of a generous 47 litres in size (offered as an option) can be added to the spaciousness of the compartments available. It is easy to install on the standard luggage carriers.

The comprehensive analogue and digital instruments feature all new graphics and a new surround, while the small display also includes a fuel level gauge.

2010 Sym Maxsym Scooter 400cc and 600cc Variants

2010 Sym Maxsym  Scooter

The site Solomoto30 announces the arrival of a new maxi scooter weblog Sym. Maxsym, an exciting maximum scooter with excellent horsepower and body design is the embodiment of high technology from SYM. For the tasteful consumers looking for a dynamic, powerful, safe, and comfortable ride in and out of the city. SYM proudly presents a stylish and distinctive model which will excite and thrill the riders. The irresistible design and curves combined with its remarkable horsepower and disc brake system will give maximum value for riding safety.

The Maxsym there will be two engine variants with 400 cc and 600 cc, which is probably from a 4-stroke single-cylinder engine powered with 4 valves. Thus, the Taiwanese manufacturer would offer so far in Japan, and Italy currently rules the market of a reasonable alternative.

With over 50 years of technical experience and expertise, our brand promise is grounded in a long commitment to quality and products built to last. Our 5 brand attributes are realised in the context of real life with an understanding toward the needs in different cultures.

With our understanding promise --- “Engine of life”, SYM devotes itself to bring the highest quality motor vehicles to every market. Our products embody the durability for life time, mobility for life needs and affinity for life styles.

The 5 core values that represent the SYM promise: Durability, Creativity, Humanity, Vibrancy, Affinity.

2010 Sym Maxsym  Scooter

SYM in EICMA 2009:

The 2009 EICMA in Milan, Italy, the world’s leading trade fair for motorcycles and scooters, provides a great opportunity for SYM to launch the regeneration of their company with a new and challenging commitment – the central theme of the booth for 2009 is “I LOVE SYM” and this brand promise will be an unshakeable belief for SYM in Europe and the world…

At the centre of SYM philosophy and the new dimension for the subsidiary here in Italy is our emphasis upon the consumer and their current and future life needs. The booth incorporates the glamour, emotion and excitement of Italian and European life styles through its variable live exhibition programs.

Our booth carries the brilliant blue and white SYM brand logo, whose colors firmly establish an atmosphere of warmth and comfort throughout the booth and reflects SYM’ s commitment to meeting present and future life needs and life styles.

After our half a century of experience and technical development, grounded in professional expertise, SYM has identified its corporate mission – the vision is clear, the strategy is focused and both internal and external partners are confident that “Engine of Life” is a genuine lifetime promise.

2010 Sym Maxsym  Scooter

All New 2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder Sport Car

All New 2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder Sport Car

With the all-new Porsche Boxster Spyder, Porsche is introducing a new, lightweight version of the mid-engined Porsche Boxster roadster at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show in December, the distinctive styling and technical specification of which represents the true, purist form of the Porsche sports car - light, powerful, open-roofed, and very efficient.

This is precisely the formula already applied in creating the most successful road-going sports and racing cars throughout the history of Porsche, ranging from the legendary Porsche 550 Spyder of the 1950s to the RS Spyder Le Mans Prototype race car so successful in motorsport today.

Weighing 1,275kg, the Porsche Boxster Spyder is the lightest model in the Porsche line-up, and continues this clear-cut philosophy in a package offering full homologation for the road, reflecting a common wish expressed by Porsche customers.

The new model becomes the third version in the Boxster range, joining the Boxster and Boxster S, yet stands out clearly at first sight from the other versions of the mid-engined roadster, quite simply because the Spyder has been developed first and foremost for driving in the open air. The low-slung, lightweight soft top extends far to the rear and serves to protect the driver and passenger from bright sunshine, wind and rain. When closed, the soft top, together with the bespoke extra-low side windows and the two unique, striking bulges on the single-piece rear lid, boasts a stretched and sleek silhouette reminiscent of the Porsche Carrera GT.

All New 2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder Sport Car

Significantly, the new model weighs 80kg less than the Porsche Boxster S which, combined with a lower centre of gravity and revised suspension, gives the Porsche Boxster Spyder the calibre of driving dynamics that clearly reflect the unique look of the car.

The Porsche Boxster Spyder features a tuned version of the proven 3.4-litre flat six 'boxer' engine with Direct Fuel Injection, which is located ahead of the rear axle. Maximum output is 320 bhp, 10 bhp more than in the Boxster S.

All New 2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder Sport Car

Equipped with the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) twin-clutch transmission and the Sports Chrono Package, the Porsche Boxster Spyder, using Launch Control, accelerates from a standstill to 62mph in 4.8 seconds. Again with optional PDK, fuel consumption is a mere 30.4mpg (9.3 litres/100km) in the NEDC New European Driving Cycle and top speed, in turn, is 166 mph (267 km/h) - with the roof removed.

Market introduction of the new Porsche Boxster Spyder will start worldwide in February 2010, and will be priced from £44,643 in the UK. Included in the purchase price is the invitation for customers to explore the dynamic attributes of their Porsche Boxster Spyder, and develop their own skills behind the wheel, courtesy of a Driving Experience Programme at the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone.

All New 2011 Volvo Sporty Sedan S60

2011 Volvo S60 Sporty Sedan

"The all-new Volvo S60 is sculpted to move you. It looks and drives like no other Volvo before and the car's technology will help you to be safer and more confident behind the wheel," says Stephen Odell, President and CEO of Volvo Cars.

The Volvo S60 can be equipped with Pedestrian Detection - a groundbreaking safety feature that can detect pedestrians in front of the car and brake automatically if the driver does not react in time.

The all-new Volvo S60 is being unveiled to the public for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in early March next year. Production of the sporty sedan model will start in early summer 2010 at the Volvo Cars plant in Ghent, Belgium.

All that changes with the 2011 Volvo S60. For starters, the redesign employs a so-called "Converged C1" architecture blending elements of Ford Motor Company's C1 compact-car platform (think S40 and Mazda 3) and the EUCD structure that serves Volvo's new XC60 crossover SUV. As a result, the next S60 will not only be a clean-sheet affair but dimensionally close to targeted rivals Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

2011 Volvo S60 Sporty Sedan

In addition, the 2011 Volvo S60 promises a dramatic visual break from today's car, expected to look much like the swoopy S60 Concept at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. That means a curvy coupe-like profile, ample lower-body sculpting, a bold front end like XC60, a stubby high-set rear deck, and sharply raked front and rear glass. The concept has rear-sliding back doors and no center body pillar, but that's showcar whimsy. The production model will be a normal "post" sedan with 4 regular doors. Likewise, the concept's showy 20-inch wheels should give way to more-sensible shoes, probably standard 18s and optional 19s.

Former design director Steve Mattin finalized the exterior, which means more curves and more flamboyant surfaces than we've come to expect from Volvo: It's more XC60 than S80. and the concept's "four-door coupe" roofline remains.

This is the first Volvo to have dimensions placing it head to head with German premium makers. Previous Volvos were half a class between the Germans: The old S60 was smaller than the 5 Series BMW of its day but bigger than a 3 Series. The new one will tackle the 3 Series and Audi A4 head on. "If we were a market leader, we could do cars outside the established size classes, but at our size we can't," our source said. This applies to pricing, engine for engine, and equipment in addition to size.

A V60 wagon version of the S60 is planned, fitting below the V70.The S60 and V60 will be available globally in four-, five-, and six-cylinder versions, most of them turbos, and diesels for Europe. The U.S. should get the turbo five, the 3.2-liter, 235-horsepower inline-six, and 3.0-liter turbo six making about 280 horsepower. AWD will again be available.

2011 Volvo S60 Sporty Sedan

"Customers in this segment want emotional appeal, sporty design and dynamic driving properties. The Volvo S60 has it all. We are convinced that it will be one of the strongest contenders around," says Stephen Odell.