New Volvo XC60 compact 4x4

This is the all-new Volvo XC60 – ‘the safest and most stunning’ Volvo ever, according to the Swedish manufacturer.

The new Volvo XC60 sits in the new generation of ‘crossover’ compact 4x4s – a new breed of cars which mix four-wheel-drive muscle and capability with hatchback driving dynamics.

And the new Volvo XC60 – which the company says is “the Volvo C30 owner’s next car” – wades into battle against the likes of the new Ford Kuga, Volkswagen Tiguan, Land Rover Freelander and Toyota RAV4.

The Volvo XC60 makes its European debut at the upcoming Geneva motor show in March 2008, and will be offered with a range-topping turbocharged 3-litre petrol engine developing 285bhp.

Volvo will also offer up a choice of two diesel models on launch – both with a 2.4-litre ‘D5’ turbodiesel producing either 163bhp or185bhp.

The Volvo XC60 will also come equipped with ‘City Safety’ as standard – a feature designed to avoid low-speed impacts.

If the XC60 is about to drive into the car in front and it senses the driver has not reacted, it will immediately apply the brakes automatically.

Volvo plans to sell 50,000 XC60s a year with customers from the USA, Germany, UK, Russia and China likely to snap up the most.

Prices have not yet been announced, but expect to pay upwards of £20,000 when it hits UK showrooms in October 2008.