New Volvo Concept XC SUV unveiled

This is the Volvo Concept XC, which will be seen for the first time at the Detroit motor show in January.

These preview photos show the new Concept XC Coupé for the first time. Volvo says the concept features design elements that will be seen on the new XC90, due towards the end of next year. The firm says that as XC-badged vehicles form the backbone of its range, the Concept XC includes plenty of hints towards the future design direction of those models.

The Concept XC is the second of three planned design studies from Volvo, each created under new design boss Thomas Ingenlath. The first design study, the Volvo Concept Coupé, was seen at the Frankfurt motor show. That model showcased Volvo's new Scalable Platform Architecture, which will be used to underpin the majority of the firm's future models.

Volvo says the Concept XC showcases its integration of safety technology, as well as traditional Scandanavian design elements.