XC60 concept a strong indication of 2009 production model: Volvo

(Photo: Volvo)

Volvo's XC lineup is about to get a little more graceful and elegant, the carmaker says. They will debut the new XC60 concept at the North American International Auto Show, no doubt causing a stir with its traditional XC musculature blended with the fun-loving attitude of a coupe.

The XC60 follows a similar design language to the C30 with its two-door configuration, and Volvo CEO Fredrik Arp says it might be the C30 owners next car. "Equally sporty and exciting, but far more capable" is how he describes it. "The concept car offers a good indication of how the "real" XC60 will look".

(Photo: Volvo)

The new XC will have its work cut out for it, as it's aimed squarely at the toughest and fastest growing part of the marketplace: the Small Premuim Utility segment. Additionally, explosive growth is forecast within the segment between now and the time the XC60 is launched.

Geared up for the consumer with a taste for technology, the XC60 will carry Volvo's City Safety system as well as numerous other high-end features to give it a fighting start.

Excited? You'll have to wait till 2009 for a test drive.