Volvo's 9700 tourist coach has been named "Coach of the Year 2008" by a jury consisting of leading European trade press journalists. The jury praised the 9700's high level of passenger comfort and driving characteristics - "a super vehicle to drive".
The jury reached its decision following three days of test drives in Switzerland. The field was the strongest in a number of years, with six contenders from such manufacturers as Mercedes, Neoplan and Irisbus.
The Volvo 9700 won because, in the opinion of the jury, it offered the best total solution. In its summary, the jury presented a long list of the bus's winning qualities, placing special emphasis on those considered to be positive for passengers. Examples included the sloping floor, as in a theater, and the large windows that ensure views are excellent regardless of where a passenger sits. According to the jury, the seats, equipped with three-point safety belts, offer superior comfort while smoothness characterised the on-road performance. 'It's a traveller's coach,' was one opinion.
The jury was equally impressed with the bus from a driver's
perspective. Journalist reactions included 'the second generation I-Shift gearbox is almost flawless,' 'synchronisation of the gearchange and the engine was exceptional,' and,
'a super vehicle to drive - I was really impressed with it.'