Volvo Recalling Thousands of S80, V70 and XC70 Models

More than 17,600 MY2008-2009 Volvo S80 sedans, V70 station-wagons and XC70 crossovers are being recalled in the States because of a potential problem with the engine cooling fan. The Swedish automaker said that due to a software programming error in the fan control module, the engine cooling fan may stop working. Depending on conditions, the driver could face reduced air conditioning performance, and/or a rapid increase in engine coolant temperature.

The recall is expected to begin in July with Volvo dealers replacing the fan control module on the affected vehicles free of charge. Concerned owners may contact Volvo for more information

directly at 1-800-458-1552 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-458-1552 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

Lexmaul Tweaks the Volvo V70 2.0D

The diesel-powered V70 2.0D ain't exactly the first Volvo model that leaps to mind when it comes to tuning, but this hasn't stopped Lexmaul from introducing a rather subtle performance kit for the Swedish estate. The German tuning firm's package is limited to an upgraded ECU that kicks output from 136HP and 320Nm up to 166HP and 390Nm of torque, and a set of sport springs that lowers the V70's suspension by 30mm.

VIDEO: Volvo V70 Diesel-Electric Plug-in Hybrid

On Monday, Volvo announced that it has teamed up with Swedish energy giant Vattenfall to introduce plug-in hybrid models to the market in 2012. But before we see the final production cars arriving in showrooms, Volvo will present a trio of V70 diesel plug-in hybrid demonstrator cars this summer to test the new technology. Click through to watch the video that includes interviews with several Volvo officials as well as footage of the demo V70 plug-in hybrid in action.