Geneva Motor Show - Volvo

Volvo tops its range…
…with this new S80 in the UK this summer.

The S80 is a renewed effort to dislodge a few motorists from the regular German executive rivals such as the BMW 5 Series, and is likely to cost from around £24,000.

The manufacturer is especially proud of the cabin – it says it has spent a great deal of time selecting materials and colours for it. The net result, it says, is the most comfortable cabin in the class.

A pair of new petrol engines will be available – a 315bhp V8 matched to all-wheel-drive and a 235bhp 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine. The existing 200bhp 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol motor will also be on offer, while diesel buyers are catered for with the latest 185bhp version of the company's D5 engine.

All use a new six-speed automatic transmission, while the V8's all-wheel-drive system will eventually be offered in cars with other engines.

New technology includes adaptive cruise control and a collision warning system: close too quickly on the car in front, and the S80 sounds an audible alert.

A Personal Car Communicator provides keyless start-up, but it also makes sure that the car is locked when not in use, as well as alerting you if the alarm is triggered and can detect heartbeats to let you know if there's an intruder inside.

…and tails it…
…with the C30. First seen at Detroit earlier in the year, the three-door four-seater also arrives in the UK this summer. It's a rival for the likes of the Audi A3.

It's on show in Europe for the first time at Geneva. If you're passing, it's certainly worth a look. Prices should range from £15,000 for a 1.6-litre model to £25,000 for a 260bhp range-topper.