Volvo’s strategy of rolling out an electrified
version of each of its main models by 2019 could very well be followed by an
expansion in new niches. The Swedish company recently trademarked the XC50
nameplate and, according to AutoExpress, it concerns a compact coupe SUV that
will rival the likes of the BMW X2/X4 and Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe from 2020,
when it’s should be launched.
Moreover, the addition of coupe SUV was hinted by
the brand’s Senior VP for EMEA, Lex Kerssemakers, who replied “potentially, but
not in the short term” when asked about such a vehicle. “We cover 98 percent of
the segments, so it’s more likely we’ll go further into the depths than
expand”, he added.
Just like every Volvo on sale after 2019, the XC50
will benefit from at least one electrified powertrain, while the rest of the
lineup will get some, if not all, of the internal combustion engines powering
the XC40.
With the XC50 still being at least two years away
from us, Volvo is currently focusing on the ’60’ lineup, with a new S60 saloon
to join the brand new V60 estate that was unveiled three days ago. Shortly
after, the ’40’ range will gain a new Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus rival that
will replace the current V40 and, most likely, retain the same designation.
