Volvo Car Overseas - Middle East Region, announces record sales figures for 2006

Spearheading the increase in sales was Volvo's V50 sportswagon that was launched in the region end of 2005. Since then, it has received outstanding reviews and has widened its fan base mainly of young families with an active lifestyle. This led to a remarkable 156% increase in V50 sales across the region.

Volvo's versatile estate car, the V70, continued to be a favourite when it comes to fleet sales. During 2006, total sales of this smart-features-packed car doubled. Additionally, Volvo's new convertible/coupe C70 got off to a flying start.

The car, which can be transformed smoothly from a coupe into a convertible thanks to its unique three-piece retractable hardtop, was developed to be one of the safest convertibles on the market in terms of both preventive and protective safety. The car's global launch took place in Dubai in January 2006 and has been available in the GCC market since the second half of the year. During this short period, sales of the C70 have exceeded expectations.

The multi-award winning XC90 continued to be Volvo's most successful car in the region accounting for 38% of Volvo's sales. In second place came the S40, Volvo's popular four-door saloon, with 25% of total sales.

With regards to markets, the largest single percentage increase on any market was in Egypt where the number of Volvo cars sold increased by an amazing 192%, almost tripling the number of Volvo cars on Egyptian roads. This impressive increase came as a result of the introduction of the 1.6 litre engine version of Volvo's successful S40.

In the GCC markets Qatar saw the biggest rise in sales at 59%, followed by the UAE with a 48% increase in sales.

Greg Maruszewski, Regional Managing Director for Volvo Car Overseas - Middle East Region, said, "We are delighted with our sales results across the region for 2006. Year over year, our performance has been on the rise and our predictions for 2007 indicate another successful Volvo year on the horizon. The arrival of the all-new S80 to the markets will win over the hearts of buyers thanks to its Scandinavian luxury along with the inviting and intelligent combination of aesthetics and functional technology.

'The S80 will reach the market this January and will be available with three engine variants: Volvo's compact transverse V8 that produces 315 horsepower, an entirely new six-cylinder injection engine with a displacement of 3.2 litres and 238 horsepower, and a 2.5T 200 horsepower engine."

He continued, "Additionally, 2007 will also see the launch of Volvo's debut in the two-door premium cars segment with the C30. The sporty design, with two doors, four individual seats, and a glass tailgate, aims to give a young and dynamic group of customers a Volvo of their own."

The C30, launched end of 2006, has already grabbed the attention of car-lovers worldwide. It has also received numerous awards including Auto Trophy, 2006 Design Award and Germany's prestigious Goldenes Lenkrad (Golden Steering Wheel) award. The Volvo C30 is expected to reach the Middle East market by mid 2007 with a variety of engines ranging from a 1.6 litre engine (in selected markets only) to a 2.4, 2.4i and T5 engine.