Electric Cars

Volvo, a brand that originated in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 1927, made its debut in the United States in August 1955. Since then, it has cultivated a reputation for its distinctive Scandinavian design, unwavering commitment to safety, and a celebrated line of station wagons. While the brand has produced numerous notable sedans and SUVs throughout its extensive history, enthusiasts often find themselves particularly drawn to Volvo's long-roof models. For one enthusiast, the opportunity to drive several of Volvo's most iconic wagons recently proved to be a remarkable experience, marking a personal first for driving models older than 2017, just in time for the brand's 70th anniversary in the U.S. in 2025.

Volvo's legacy of safety began in 1959 with the introduction of the three-point seatbelt, a innovation credited with saving thousands of lives annually in America. This commitment was further solidified with the 200 series, a line of vehicles designed with stringent safety standards in mind, so impressive that the U.S. government adopted the 240 model as a benchmark for new cars. Among these, the 1982 Volvo 245 GLT Turbo stood out, not just for safety but also for its surprising speed, once hailed as one of the world's fastest station wagons despite its modest 130 horsepower. Moving forward, the 1995 Volvo 850 T-5R Wagon elevated the performance bar significantly. This limited-production model boasted a 2.3-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, producing 240 horsepower, allowing it to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds, a remarkable feat for its time. Not only was it fast, but it also offered practical innovations like a child booster seat and optional rear-facing jump seats, increasing passenger capacity to seven.

The evolution of Volvo's wagons continued with the 1999 V70 Cross Country, a successor to the 850 long-roof models that introduced an all-wheel-drive variant and a rugged aesthetic with body cladding and a slightly raised ride height. This model embodied the core Volvo ethos of stylish comfort, featuring thoughtful details like a reversible cargo mat and a ceiling-mounted barrier for pets. The author's journey culminated with the 2015 Volvo V60 Polestar, a high-performance wagon born from Volvo's collaboration with its racing partner. This limited-production model, with its potent 345-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six engine and distinctive Rebel Blue paint, offered an exhilarating driving experience characterized by precise steering and a powerful, sonorous engine note, making it a truly memorable automotive encounter.

Reflecting on these diverse models, it becomes clear that Volvo has consistently demonstrated a profound understanding of vehicle engineering, prioritizing both occupant protection and an engaging driving experience. Their commitment to thoughtful design, robust construction, and a forward-thinking approach to automotive development has not only shaped their own brand identity but also influenced the broader automotive landscape, fostering a legacy that continues to inspire and innovate for future generations of drivers.

Suzuki, having withdrawn from the United States market over a decade ago, continues to innovate for global audiences. The company is preparing to showcase five distinctive and appealing concept vehicles at the forthcoming Tokyo Auto Salon, highlighting its enduring creativity and commitment to diverse automotive segments. These concepts, ranging from a compact SUV to a versatile mini-truck, offer a glimpse into Suzuki's vision for future mobility, albeit largely inaccessible to the American consumer.

Among the highlights are a Jimny SUV and a DR-Z4S off-road motorcycle, both drawing inspiration from the popular 'Monster Hunter' video game franchise, demonstrating a playful blend of automotive design and pop culture. Additionally, Suzuki will present an XBEE concept tailored for nature photography enthusiasts, an Every Wagon known as the 'Wanpaku Rider' designed for adventurous families, and the highly adaptable Super Carry Work & Play Pro, catering to both professional and recreational needs.

Innovations Inspired by Gaming and Lifestyle

Suzuki's presentation at the Tokyo Auto Salon will feature a captivating blend of automotive innovation and cultural integration, highlighted by two concepts drawing inspiration from the popular Monster Hunter video game series. The Jimny SUV, a compact yet robust vehicle, has been reimagined with design elements directly from the game, reflecting a collaboration with Capcom, the game's developer. This unique approach transforms the functional Jimny into a themed exploration vehicle, appealing to enthusiasts of both automotive design and the gaming world. Complementing the Jimny is the DR-Z4S off-road motorcycle, which adopts the aesthetic of 'Seikret,' a mode of transport within the Monster Hunter universe. This motorcycle concept is distinguished by its bespoke livery and an integrated saddlebag, making it a distinctive piece that bridges the gap between digital adventure and tangible mobility. These concepts underscore Suzuki's commitment to engaging consumers through creative partnerships and thematic designs, offering a fresh perspective on vehicle customization and lifestyle integration.

The Jimny SUV concept, born from a partnership with Capcom, is a compact off-roader whose aesthetic is deeply rooted in the Monster Hunter franchise. This vehicle integrates visual cues from the game, resonating with its fan base and showcasing a playful yet rugged design. Accompanying it is the DR-Z4S off-road motorcycle, which is specifically inspired by the 'Seikret' transportation within the Monster Hunter world. The motorcycle features a unique livery that mirrors the game's distinctive artistry, coupled with a practical saddlebag, making it ready for fictional expeditions. These models not only demonstrate Suzuki's ability to infuse popular culture into its vehicle designs but also reflect a strategic effort to capture the imagination of a broader audience, including gamers and adventure seekers. While these particular designs cater to a niche market, they exemplify the potential for future creative collaborations and themed vehicle offerings, providing a glimpse into how automotive design can evolve beyond pure functionality.

Versatile Utility and Family Adventure Concepts

Beyond the gaming-inspired vehicles, Suzuki's showcase at the Tokyo Auto Salon extends to concepts designed for practical utility and family-oriented adventures, highlighting the brand's versatility. The XBEE, for instance, is presented as an ideal companion for nature photographers, suggesting modifications that enhance its functionality for outdoor pursuits and equipment transport. This concept points towards a vehicle that prioritizes space, accessibility, and potentially specialized features to support photographic expeditions in various environments. The Every Wagon, dubbed the 'Wanpaku Rider,' caters to families seeking outdoor recreation. This vehicle is equipped with features such as a roof rack, a Roam awning, and auxiliary lights, indicating a design focused on comfort and convenience for family outings. The inclusion of three Strider bikes on top further emphasizes its role as a vehicle for active families, promoting an adventurous lifestyle. The Super Carry Work & Play Pro, a tiny truck, exemplifies dual-purpose functionality. Its design includes a protective cage around the bed, enhancing its utility for both work-related hauling and recreational activities like camping. This concept embodies the idea of a vehicle that seamlessly transitions between professional duties and leisure pursuits, offering adaptability for diverse user needs. These concepts collectively showcase Suzuki's broad design capabilities and its understanding of evolving lifestyle demands.

The Suzuki XBEE concept is specifically tailored for nature photographers, envisioned as a compact yet capable vehicle with features that cater to the demands of outdoor photography. This might include enhanced storage solutions for camera gear, comfortable seating for long waits, and perhaps even integrated power sources for equipment, making it a reliable partner for capturing the natural world. The Wanpaku Rider, based on the Suzuki Every Wagon, is crafted for families who embrace outdoor activities. It's equipped with a robust roof rack for carrying gear, a convenient Roam awning for shelter, and auxiliary lights for extended adventures. The presence of three Strider bikes mounted on its roof signifies its readiness for family fun and active exploration, suggesting a vehicle designed to facilitate memorable outdoor experiences. Rounding out the lineup is the Suzuki Super Carry Work & Play Pro, a compact truck engineered for exceptional versatility. Its bed is encircled by a protective cage, optimizing it for secure transport of diverse loads, whether for professional tasks or recreational gear. Suzuki positions this concept as a mobile base camp, equally adept at supporting weekend camping trips as it is at fulfilling demanding weekday hauling requirements. These innovative concepts collectively illustrate Suzuki's strategic focus on developing vehicles that are not only charming and efficient but also deeply integrated with the diverse lifestyles and practical needs of its global customers.