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I want a new or slightly used XC with a manual gearbox. I've seen the discussion here by many people that would also like one of these things, but have been discouraged by Volvo Cars of North America. I have a series of emails that don't really address the reason that they are not available in North America. My take-Marketing. On this and other websites, there have been enough people who would buy a manual gearbox XC if it were available. I even called Volvo in Sweden to have them inquire into the possibility. As to the emissions problem, I have a 95 VW Passat GLX wagon with a 5speed that hasn't had emissions problems yet, and I bought it used at 75K. If enough people called VCNA and requested manuals (and not let the marketing/sales wienies talk you out of it-I do have a name and email if interested), we could get one made and shipped over here. Seems as if the conversion might be a good aftermarket project for someone with the capital. I personally think that the extra $1800 for the Geartronic auto-stick they slap in the XC is an extra money maker for them. I've test-driven it and was not impressed. Also, since the manuals usally get slightly better gas mileage, it would seem that the slight increase in start-up emissions would be offset by the decrease in overall emissions by the increased fuel efficiency. The technology obviosly exists, and we have to make sure the marketing/focus group people don't remove the opportunity for options.
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