VOLVO unveiled its V70 estate and V70 Cross Country (badged XC) in Detroit and simultaneously to more than 200 fleet customers at the London Boat Show at Earl's Court. Orders for all models are being taken now before deliveries of certain models start in March, with further engine options on sale from June.

The V70 is based on the platform of the S80 saloon, although it offers a shorter wheelbase and a new interior. Prices range from £22,260 to £29,660 on-the-road compared with Vauxhall's Omega estate (£19,525 to £31,650 on-the-road) and Saab's 9-5 estate (£23,795 to £34,995 on-the-road). Initially it will be available with two five-cylinder petrol units - a 2.4-litre turbo with 200bhp and the flagship 2.3-litre turbo T5 with 250bhp and a 155mph top speed. Both engines can be allied to a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearbox, as well as the Geartronic semi-automatic transmission introduced on the S80.

In June a 2.5-litre direct injection turbodiesel engine arrives with 140bhp and claimed 43mpg fuel economy, followed in the summer by two further five-cylinder petrol units offering 140bhp and 170bhp. A bi-fuel version using petrol and either liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or compressed natural gas (CNG) will also be introduced later this year. Summer will also see the introduction of the V70 XC range to run alongside the standard model featuring a higher ride height, more rugged looks and four-wheel-drive.