By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

(August 9, 2020) Volvo Cars aims to establish itself as a leader in electrification in the coming years, and by 2025 it wants half of its global sales volume to consist of fully electric cars, with the rest hybrid electrics.  While this is a lofty objective, we think based on the still small size of the all-electric segment Volvo might have difficulty meeting its goal without seriously compromising sales.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

Volvo has a very impressive three-vehicle crossover SUV lineup entering the third decade of the 21st Century, and we think the newest, smallest and least expensive model — the XC40 — might be the best of the lot. Its fetching good looks, fun-to-drive demeanor, spacious interior, and attractive price for an entry-level luxury car are compelling.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

The sedan is going away, the victim of low sales in this new era of the sport utility crossover. For those of us who see some advantages in the higher-riding crossover including more cargo hauling capability, but prefer the comfort, handling, and styling of a good sedan there is an alternative and it’s called the wagon.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

Volvo completed its new three-vehicle crossover SUV lineup this spring by adding its smallest and least expensive model — the 2019 XC40. We think it may be the best of the three, which also includes the award-winning mid-sized three-row XC90 and the compact XC60. The XC40 successfully translates the distinctive look of Volvo's larger SUVs into a smaller package.

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

Volvo has promised to electrify its entire lineup of cars and crossover SUVs by the 2019 model year. This does not mean that Volvo has taken leave of its good sense and will make its entire fleet run on pure electricity. What this does mean is a plug-in hybrid version of every vehicle will be available throughout the lineup.