2010 Volvo S60 Launch Delayed Until Next Year: Report

VOLVO HAS REPORTEDLY cancelled the launch of its next-generation S60 sedan, as a result of uncertainty surrounding the company's future interrupting development of the car.

Although presently owned by Ford, Volvo may soon be sold to either Chinese manufacturer Geely, or bought up by a Swedish-led consortium.

With its future owner and parts suppliers still unknown, there are firming reports that Volvo has throttled back the S60's development until those issues are dealt with.

The all-new S60 sedan was originally slated to go on sale in Europe later this year after debuting at this month's Frankfurt Motor Show. A Los Angeles, Detroit or Geneva unveiling now appear more likely.

Drawing much of its inspiration from last year's S60 Concept, the new car's platform and bodywork is understood to have been signed off, but much work reportedly remains to be done on the S60's mechanical package.

Not much is known about which drivetrains will feature beneath the S60's bonnet, however present speculation says Ford's newly-developed EcoBoost 1.6 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and its Powershift twin-clutch transmissions may see service in the Swedish sedan.

On-road testing of the S60 is expected to commence at the Nurburgring Nordshliefe in Germany next month.