Swedish Automaker Readies Vehicle to Invade German Drop Tops

We've seen heavily camouflaged prototypes of Volvo's upcoming C50 convertible before, but a recent commercial shoot in Florida gave us a look at the 2007 Volvo C50 in full production trim. Although it looks a lot like the current C70 convertible, Volvo hopes that the slightly smaller C50 will appeal to a younger audience that might otherwise opt for Audi's A4 cabriolet or the upcoming BMW 3 Series convertible.

Not only do these pictures reveal the C50's smooth profile, they also expose a feature we've suspected all along — a retractable hardtop. This would allow the C50 to effectively replace both the C70 convertible and the now defunct C70 coupe in Volvo's lineup. It would also give the C50 the enviable position as the least expensive hardtop convertible on the market.

Built on the same platform as the S40 sedan, the C50 will likely share the S40's 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine. The C50 looks to have roughly the same overall dimensions as well so rear passenger space will be tight, but usable. A new airbag system will give the C50 full head protection despite the lack of a fixed roof, a feature currently offered only in the 2005 Porsche Boxster.

Look for the C50 to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, with U.S. sales beginning next spring.