For immediate release
TORONTO (June 15, 2005) – Canadians buying Volvo vehicles check-off Dolby Pro-Logic II from the options list more often on the XC90, XC70 and S80 than in the United States. U.S. buyers choose premium sound system more often when buying the more compact S40 and V50.
With the launch of the 2005 model year, Volvo Cars of Canada Ltd. has offered its premium Dolby Pro-Logic II surround sound system throughout the lineup – a first for the company. Since that time, the most popular vehicle equipped with the feature have been has been the XC90 luxury SUV (at 34.9 per cent of all sales). The rugged XC70 and S80 luxury sedan followed at 28.7 and 26.3 per cent, respectively. The XC90 and XC70 are two of the company’s best-selling models.
In the U.S., sales XC90, XC70 and S80 that were equipped with a premium audio system are markedly different: 39.4 per cent, 4.5 per cent and 11.2 per cent, respectively. The most popular models equipped with Dolby Pro-Logic II in the U.S. have been the S40 and V50 at 45.2 and 39.9 per cent, respectively.
In the U.S., the S40 and V50 in 2.4i trim were targeted at a much younger demographic than in Canada. U.S. owners of the entry-level Volvo vehicles are often in their early 20’s. A younger buyer, coupled with a special “Select Package” – including a moonroof, power driver’s seat and the premium sound system – translated into much higher interest Dolby Pro Logic II in the U.S.
Volvo Cars of Canada Ltd. is part of the Volvo Car Corporation of Göteborg, Sweden. The company provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to the 43 Volvo automobile retailers across the country. The company’s product range includes the flagship S80 luxury sedan, the versatile V70 wagon, the S60 sports sedan, and an XC-line of vehicles that includes the rugged XC70 and the award-winning XC90 sport utility vehicle. For 2005, the company is introducing the completely redesigned S40 sports sedan and V50 sportswagon, providing performance for a new generation.
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