The success of the Infiniti...
The success of the Infiniti M is a virtual certainty! In a world first, Nissan"s luxury arm unveiled it"s all-new BMW 5-series, Mercedes E-Class and Audi A6 rival at Pebble Beach, without the car actually being there. A 3-D holographic representation revealed the sports saloon in all its glory, while the first official photos of the newcomer were released to the press simultaneously.
With the replacement...
With the replacement for the ageing C70 unveiled at this week"s Frankfurt Motor Show, it makes the current S80 the oldest model in the line-up. The car seen in the mag should offer improved handling, while retaining the outgoing machine"s trademark refinement.
Auto Express revealed in Issue 865 how the BMW 5-Series rival will look when it hits the UK, but these action shots prove that it"s nearly ready to be signed off. The proportions of the executive car are clearly visible behind the masking, and the sleek profile hints at the newcomer"s sportier image, too.
The family front end, with the headlamps set behind the line of the grille, is just visible in the top image. Other traditional Volvo design touches include door mirrors which feature the indicator repeaters, plus flat-faced alloy wheels.
The big saloon will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, before hitting UK dealerships in the summer. Precise details on specifications aren"t yet available, but a range of new engines is expected to appear, including the 315bhp V8 that"s fitted to the Swedish outfit"s XC90 SUV - albeit not currently in Britain. This unit would power the flagship variant, which could also boast four-wheel drive.
The existing S80 is already offered with 4x4 capability in the US, and it would allow the saloon to rival the Audi A6 quattro on this side of the Atlantic. Prices are expected to start at í‚á£24,000 for the entry-level model.