Rumour: Volvo XC20 small crossover in works, to rival Audi Q2

Volvo is reportedly working on a small crossover, which is likely to be named XC20. The vehicle will be positioned below the XC40. Volvo's head of R&D - Henrik Green, has claimed that since the Swedish automaker already has a suitable platform and engine, it won't be a hard task for it to build a small crossover in order to tap the rising demand in the segment.

The R&D chief, while speaking at a preview event of the XC60 in Sweden, has indicated that the CMA (Compact Modular Architecture) platform, which is being co-developed with Chinese carmaker - Geely, can be altered to underpin a sub-compact crossover. Additionally, Volvo also has powertrain options like the new 1.5-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine that can be used to power the small crossover.

Volvo's increased interest in the sub-compact SUV segment comes at a time when the European market is seeing a boom in SUV and crossover sales. Market reports suggest that sales of small crossovers touched the 1.4 million mark last year, while the segment can further expand to reach the two million milestone by next year. Audi has already introduced the Q2 compact SUV in this segment to benefit from this increased customer interest. The Volvo XC20, if launched in the near future, will rival the Audi Q2 in this sub-compact SUV segment.

Source: Autocar