Volvo: R-Design at Detroit; XC60 at Geneva?

Although Volvo usually unwraps something big in Detroit for the North American

international Auto Show, it didn't have much to show this year. Last year, it introduced the concept version of its upcoming XC60 compact crossover (plus its futuristic BeeVan commercial vehicle concept), and the year before that the C70 folding hardtop convertible. Some of its other critical vehicles, such as the C30 Concept and the SCC concept also debuted in previous Detroit shows. The vehicle that many thought would be unveiled at this year's show, the production version of the XC60, was a no-show.

Instead, Volvo opted to launch its new R-Design series of performance accessories, which, while not quite as exciting to car enthusiasts as an all-new model or creative concept, is of significant importance to the brand, its dealers and loyal Volvo buyers. It wasn't long ago that Volvo discontinued its S60 R and V70 R, which were 300-horsepower, turbocharged and all wheel drive performance cars; vehicles that defined comfortable, safe, performance-oriented motoring. And while they might not be around anymore, the spirit of their understated good looks will live on through the

R-Design upgrades for the C30, S40, V50 and XC90, including bigger alloy wheels, subtly integrated body kits, exhaust systems, plus sportier seats, steering wheels and unique instrumentation. R-Design Volvos will become available in 2008 as model year 2009 products.

But what of the XC60? Various sources are reporting that Volvo will unveil the production version at Geneva, and will follow up with a North American debut later this spring at New York. There is still much left to confirm, when it comes to powertrains, which are currently still up in the air. A variety of engines ranging from Volvo's powerful but smooth five-cylinder engine lineup to the new 3.2-liter inline-six could be used in this new vehicle. We'll have to wait until spring to see what's in store.