Volvo Once More Threatens Future Without Wagons as SUVs Continue to Take Up More Space

• Volvo is shifting focus to SUVs, with no confirmed plans to replace the V60 and V90.

• The company’s ‘8×8’ strategy leaves little room for estate/wagon models, prioritizing SUVs and high-riding saloons.

• Rising tariffs are influencing Volvo’s production plans, prompting a move of EX30 manufacturing to Belgium.

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This isn’t the first time the topic of wagons and Volvo comes up, but it still stings, nonetheless. Volvo is reconsidering the future of estate cars, aka station wagons, in its lineup, as there are no clear plans to replace the V60 and V90. CEO Jim Rowan indicated that the company’s focus on SUVs and high-riding saloons, alongside limited resources, makes new estate models unlikely.

The continuously increasing preference for SUVs has reshaped Volvo’s product strategy. Rowan pointed out that SUVs’ higher ride height appeals to many buyers, particularly women. Models like the XC60 and XC90 have seen strong sales, while the brand’s saloons have evolved into more spacious hatchbacks, such as the new ES90.

Although the ES90 is classified as a saloon, it incorporates estate-like features, including a higher ride height, a sleeker aerodynamic profile, and a 40:20:40 split-folding rear seat for greater practicality.

The ES90 will initially be built in Chengdu, China, but high tariffs—30% in Europe and 112.5% in the U.S.—could limit its availability in key markets. Rowan suggested that production for the U.S. market could move to Volvo’s Charleston, North Carolina plant in the future.

‘8×8’ Strategy Leaves Little Room for Estates

Volvo’s long-term ‘8×8’ strategy plans for eight models over eight years, with mid-cycle updates. However, Rowan suggested the plan may shift to a ‘7×7’ structure, reducing the number of models even further. The lineup currently includes the EX30, EC40, EX40, EX60 (due in 2026), EX90, ES90, and the China-only EM90 MPV.

A potential ES60 model could introduce a more estate-like body, but Volvo has not confirmed such plans. Instead, Rowan emphasized cost-effectiveness, saying it’s more efficient to expand existing models rather than introduce niche products. The XC60, for example, could take over the role previously filled by the V90, with different editions such as the Black Edition and Cross Country models. The latter idea is already in execution as Volvo recently introduced the EX30 CC.

Rowan acknowledged that rising tariffs have added complexity to Volvo’s manufacturing and export plans. To adapt, the company is shifting production of the EX30 from China to Belgium to avoid European tariffs on Chinese-made EVs.

Source: Autocar