Volvo XC70 2008
By Benjamin Cyr
Pleasant day to day
The high degree of versatility characterizes the XC70; whether it be a several hour trip, off-road fishing spots or simply running errands with the whole family, this wagon can do it all in a comfortable and practical cab interior; even those seated in the rear will enjoy the surprising head clearance.
Volvo is famous for secure vehicles and this one follows suite. You doubt this? Well, here are a few features: front anti- backlash protection system, numerous bags and inflatable curtains, stability and traction dynamic regulator, hill descent control, antilock brakes, energy absorbing steering column and a few options like an adaptive speed regulator, a crash warning system with assisted braking plus a blind spot information system! Quite a list....
Personally, I was pleasantly surprised by the integration of a seat support system for toddlers in the rear. Very ingenious.
Another important addition for 2008 consists of a 3.2 litre, in line six cylinder engine developing 235hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. This replaces the previous five-cylinder turbo. Wedded to a six-speed automatic transmission, it, however, accelerates adequately, nothing more. We must add that the XC comes with all-wheel drive and weighs over 1800kg. Personally, I would prefer more torque at low revolution to strengthen the in gear acceleration, especially with the vehicle loaded down; although the Volvo has more volume and weight than its predecessor, the handling has improved substantially; the roll factors less and steering is very responsive. This would be the most notable change, and, in my opinion, the most interesting. While the previous generation supplied comfort and security to the detriment of driving pleasure, this one makes no compromises.
A base price lower than the 2007 model
The new XC70 starts at $46,495, a $1000 drop compared to last year’s model. I must warn you to be very careful before ticking off the options; our tryout version had three groups of options (Convenience, Prestige and Premium) plus a few individual options (sliding roof, a twelve speaker audio system and a collision warning system) and sold for $60,640! Not peanuts, you’ll agree.
In conclusion, remarkable versatility in a much more reasonable format than that of a SUV. |
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