Detroit show: Volvo to debut XC Coupe

VOLVO has confirmed the second in its series of three key global design concepts will be unveiled at the Detroit motor show in January, previewing the look of its next-generation SUV range.

The XC Coupe concept will give the world its first glimpse of the styling of the second-generation XC90 family-sized SUV – due in 2015 – and the smaller XC60.

Volvo has released two sketches and one photo image of the high-riding concept, revealing styling cues from the stunning Concept Coupe from the Frankfurt motor show in August, including a split T-shaped headlight design and Volvo’s new gaping, slatted grille.

At the rear, the concept features the bull horn-like tail-lights as revealed in a presentation by Volvo design chief Thomas Ingenlath at Frankfurt, while the widening of the shoulder line is an exaggerated evolution of the current XC90.

Volvo said in a statement that the XC Coupe is just one interpretation of the company’s ‘Scalable Platform Architecture’ (SPA) that will form the basis for a number of future mid-size and large vehicles.

“The next chapter in Volvo Cars’ new design story showcases how the company’s famous safety technology as well as a contemporary Scandinavian active lifestyle could be integrated into the new architecture,” the company said.

The concept is the next phase in Volvo’s design-led renaissance under the guidance of new design chief Thomas Ingenlath, who was also responsible for penning the Concept Coupe.

The Swedish car-maker is yet to announce when it will reveal the third design concept in the series, or what form it will take.

Volvo has already confirmed it will incorporate driver-less technology into its new architecture and the XC90 is set to be the first production model to be built using the new underpinnings.

Volvo Car Corporation senior vice-president Lex Kerssmakers revealed to GoAuto at the Tokyo motor show last month that the Detroit show would be the location for the unveiling of the second concept.

At the time, Mr Kerssmakers denied the concept would be based the XC90, suggesting only that it would be “something else”.

Volvo has confirmed that images and more information on the XC Coupe will be released on January 8 ahead of its international debut at the Detroit show on January 13.