Picture this: You’ve done your research and know exactly what you want in a Volvo. But when you search dealer inventories, nothing quite matches. The perfect color comes with packages you don’t need. The right trim level doesn’t have the features you want. Sound familiar?
There’s a better solution. With Volvo, you can build your own car through custom ordering, you can specify every detail, and often save money in the process. Here’s how it works and why it’s worth considering.
When you customize a Volvo to your exact specification, you’re choosing precisely the features, colors, and options you want rather than settling for whatever combination happens to be sitting on a dealer’s lot. A custom order (also called a factory order or special order) occurs when you build your own car by configuring your specific vehicle and the manufacturer builds it according to your specifications.
A new Volvo can be customized in a seemingly unlimited number of ways, from powertrain choices to interior materials, exterior colors, and technology packages. Unlike buying in-stock, where you’re limited to pre-configured combinations, building your own Volvo means every detail reflects your preferences.
When dealers stock vehicles, they order popular packages that bundle features together. This often means paying for options you’ll never use. By waiting just a few short months, you can get your new Volvo customized to your exact specifications and save money at the same time. Why pay for a premium sound system if you mostly listen to audio books? Or a panoramic moonroof if you never open it?
Volvo offers electric, plug in hybrid, and hybrid models across their lineup, and each can be configured with different trim levels, colors, and packages. Whether you want an XC60 in a specific exterior shade with the hybrid powertrain and advanced safety package—but without the sport wheels—custom ordering makes it possible.
Each Volvo dealer has a limited number of vehicles on their lot. If you’re looking for a newer model, rare configuration, or specific combination of features, many car buyers can be frustrated trying to find their ideal vehicle in existing inventory. Custom ordering solves this problem.
Volvo’s online configurator at volvocars.com allows you to customize your vehicle, selecting your model, trim level, colors, and packages. The Volvo website is designed to make the ordering process simple. They offer interactive features that allow you to compare and contrast colors and options so that you can visualize the vehicle and determine exactly what you want.
You can also explore the Volvo lineup to see available options:
For those seeking an unforgettable experience, the Overseas Delivery Program allows American customers to customize their new Volvo with exclusive pricing and pick it up at the World of Volvo in Sweden. They can then drive their vehicle in Europe, and then have it shipped home to the United States. This program turns car buying into the ultimate adventure.
The delivery package includes pick-up from your hotel, delivery at World of Volvo, factory tour (when available), buffet lunch, and access to the World of Volvo Exhibition. Volvo offers pick-up of special orders in Sweden for those who want the fun of driving their new car on its home turf.
Special ordering takes longer than buying a vehicle off the lot — typically around 8 to 12 weeks for vehicles built in Sweden or China. The exact timeline depends on your specific configuration, current manufacturing schedules, and where your vehicle is being built.
Before finalizing your custom order, you’ll want to experience the Volvo model you’re considering. Here’s an important tip: when you visit a dealership for a test drive, be clear from the outset that you’re only there to test drive and will not be making a purchase that day.
This straightforward approach helps you:
Remember, the dealer’s first choice is to sell you one of the vehicles on their lot. By stating your intentions clearly — “I’m here for a test drive only and won’t be purchasing today” — you maintain control of your car-buying journey.
The Total Price (MSRP) is an estimate that includes the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), any options and packages you select, and the destination fee. Taxes, title, registration, license, insurance, maintenance, and other retailer fees are excluded. The retailer sets the actual price.
Complimentary Factory Scheduled Maintenance is available only at participating Volvo Cars Authorized Retailers. Ask about this benefit when placing your order.
If you need a vehicle immediately, custom ordering may not be your best option. However, if you’re currently leasing and know when your lease ends, custom ordering is ideal — you can time your new Volvo’s arrival perfectly.
Custom ordering makes perfect sense if you:
It may not be the best choice if you:
Ready to build your own Volvo? Cartelligent’s advisors are seasoned pros who know how the system works and how to work it in your favor. They’ll help you skip the games, secure a great deal, and feel in control the whole time.
The custom ordering process becomes simple when you have an expert guiding you:
Whether you’re considering a special order or a readily available vehicle, this car buying service can help you get a great deal on exactly what you want.
Building your own Volvo isn’t about waiting longer — it’s about getting exactly what you want without compromising or overpaying. By waiting just a few short months, you can get your new Volvo customized to your exact specifications and save money at the same time.
With Cartelligent managing the process, you avoid the typical dealership hassles while ensuring you get the best possible deal on precisely the Volvo you want. It’s not settling for “close enough” — it’s driving away in the perfect vehicle, configured exactly for you at the right price.
Hear from our happy clients about their experiences
“I can’t recommend this service enough. Cartelligent helped us in each step of the process, providing unbiased opinions, helpful information and valuable insights. Christian was wonderful and available to answer all our questions. The ROI of this service is very high.”
Gabriela Belo
“Incredible service from start to finish. Ethan made what is typically a stressful experience into one of the most simple transactions I’ve had…Walked us through every step and made sure any features we wanted were taken care of and at the best price possible. I absolutely recommend taking advantage of this option when you are looking for your next car. “
Nick McCarthy
“I cannot recommend Cartelligent and Ethan Sparrow enough. An excellent experience of buying a new car and selling my old one. So simple. All completed within four days. All of the paperwork simply completed and they were able to make a super deal on the price of my new car. Couldn’t be happier. This is a service that takes the anxiety out of car buying and selling while also saving you money. Hard to beat that!”
Robert Britton
Blog
Stay updated with our recent blog posts.
From start to finish, leave the puzzle to us and forget all of that pressure and stress. Just get the expert advice that actually helps you drive off in your new ride.
"*" indicates required fields
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news and special offers.
By submitting your information, you acknowledge and agree that your use of our website and services is governed by these linked Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
