Cars!

Volvo VZO: Vrrrrrrroom!

Volvo's new estate has all the features that give every Volvo modern character.

The new Volvo V70 is typically Scandinavian in form and function.

It is both powerful and timelessly elegant, exceptionally practical and versatile.

The combination of form and function is nothing new in Sweden. It is the heritage of generations. Like the tradition of using light materials-often natural materials-in home decoration and furniture, for example.

Volvo Car Corporation's design department has been working for several years on developing this heritage and adapting it to the demands of the the future and the needs of car buyers the world over. The introduction of the new Volvo V70 is an important step in the process.

When it comes to the exterior, the objective was to create an aerodynamic and powerful impression, with a sense of direction-i.e. to give the impression that the car is on its way forwards, very much like an arrow.

"We have endeavoured to strengthen Volvo Cars' new style while conserving this strong heritage. One design feature that links back is the V-shaped bonnet. This first appeared with the Volvo PV444 in the 1940s and returned in the S40/V40 of the 1990s, as well as on the Volvo S70, V70 and C70, It was even more evident on the Volvo S80. Another typical Volvo feature is the Volvo grille-upright, almost proud, with its unmistakable cross-brace," says Peter Horbury, head of design at Volvo Cars.

New Mazda 626 Debuts

Each successive generation of Mazda's 2-litre 626 range improves on the previous model, firmly establishing Mazda as a choice of both executives and families.

The latest 626 4-door Sedan echoes the spirit of Mazda. Performance from the latest multi-valve, four-cylinder engine is strong but economical.

Maximum power output is a healthy 138 PS at 5,800 rpm, while maximum torque is rated at 18.5 kg-m giving excellent mid-range acceleration and improved drivability.

Sensitive, accurate steering and the transmission ensure constant control. The interior of the new 626 is spacious and features a warm, natural environment. A new design of dashboard features a shift indicator for the convenience of the driver.

The Mazda 626 promises comfort, strong visual appeal, excellent driving dynamics and a comprehensive list of standard features inside and out.

Jaguar F-Type Roadster

Jaguar's new F-Type Concept roadster was recently unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Inspired by the XK180 concept Jaguar car revealed at the Paris Salon in 1998, Jaguar F-Type: designers set out to create the ideal, compact Jaguar roadster, evoking the spirit of the legendary E-type.

The F-Type Concept-the most compact Jaguar sports car in more than forty years, presents the company's ideas for a roadster that would take Jaguar into a new segment of the global market. Presentation of the car at international auto shows will help gauge the public's reaction to the concept of a dynamic, technically advanced, Jaguar roadster.

It is also four inches (100mm) narrower than both cars. The new Jaguar is designed to accept a range of power train options, starting with the 240 horsepower AJ-V6 engine introduced in the S-type saloon, while a supercharged version with around 300 horsepower is also a possibility. Automatic or manual transmissions would drive the rear wheels, while all-wheel drive is a production-feasible option.