Volvo XC70 2008

By Benjamin Cyr

Who needs an SUV?

Hello, Mr.Cyr, we’re a couple with two children and our family travels often. As you would suspect, we need space for the family but also to transport stuff to our cottage on weekends. We currently have a rather large SUV; however, we want to change it since our lease is up. We find that the vehicle too large which makes certain manoeuvres impossible. Would it be possible to find another type of vehicle as comfortable, versatile, voluminous and equipped with all-wheel drive? Thank you for your response.

This question comes up often in e-mails we receive. I could steer them to a smaller SUV or a hybrid but consumers often forget about the wagons. I realize that most of them come from Europe: BMW, Audi, Saab, Volvo and Volkswagen and let’s not forget the Japanese Subaru which offers the Outback.

For 2008, Volvo rolls out its new XC70 generation. For those unfamiliar with the European, think of a Volvo V70 wagon modified to make it more competitive in off- road with raised ground clearance(similar to the Audi Allroad and the Subaru Outback). Those who know the XC70, may consider the changes of minor importance; aesthetically, you would be right. Although the vehicle is brand new with very modern lines, the change cannot be called radical. This type of evolution fits the mainly conservative Volvo, apart from the new C30.

Upon examination of the cockpit and especially when taking the wheel, one realizes quickly that the XC70 2008 is far superior to its predecessor.

Road-test likes:

• the well assembled and silent cab interior;
• the quality materials;
• the superb comfort(front and back)
• the high quality sound system;
• the tasteful running board and the intuitive controls;
• the interior volume, including the impressive cargo space;
• a high level of security;
• upgraded road adherence;
• many cockpit innovations.
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Road-test dislikes:

• the rather high fuel consumption;
• the cumbersome weight;
• the six cylinder’s lack of torque at low speeds;
• reliability not yet established;
• the costly option packages.