Model Overview: 2008 Volvo XC70

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

XC70 3.2 AWD: $36,775

Destination: $745

A decade after the launch of the segment defining XC crossover, Volvo is introducing a completely new third-generation XC70 for 2008. With new styling cues, improved driving dynamics, enhanced luxury, sophisticated technology and innovative safety features, Volvo ups the ante in taking its popular crossover to the next level.

Rugged elegance embodies the new XC70 with refined lines, athletic shoulders and pronounced wheel housings. Distinctive rear styling is enhanced with hexagonal design language plus rear glass that extends further down than the side windows for improved rearward visibility. "With the help of the intelligent overlapping tailgate, which takes the taillights up with it when it is opened, the space inside the vehicle is larger than before and easy to load," says Steve Mattin, Volvo's Design Director.

Now based on Volvo's EuCD platform, the XC70 shares major components and systems with the flagship S80. This represents a significant change from the outgoing XC70, which was related to the Volvo S60. The platform change has enabled Volvo's engineers to instill new levels of power and refinement for a high-class driving experience.

A 3.2-liter in-line 6-cylinder normally aspirated engine that produces 235 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque motivates the XC70. With its advanced valve mechanism dubbed CPS (Cam Profile Switching) along with VIS (Variable Intake System) it's like getting two engines in one. "The I-6 satisfies both performance-oriented customers as well as those who prioritize driving comfort and fuel economy," says Thomas Ahlborg, Volvo's XC70 project director.

Mated to the engine is a six-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission that enables the driver to shift manually when desired. The XC70 comes standard with all-wheel drive with Instant Traction^TM to ensure the best possible road grip in all situations. New electronic Hill Descent Control (HDC) uses the vehicle's brakes and engine torque to crawl in bottom gear on steep downhill slopes.

Highlighting the versatility of this family adventure vehicle, Volvo combines a new height-adjustable integrated child booster cushion - a world first - with an extended inflatable curtain. This combination provides the industry's best passenger safety system for precious cargo in the rear seat. The XC70's new, stronger side structure (first introduced on the 2007 Volvo S80) employs high-tensile steel of different grades to optimize side-impact protection.

The extensive list of safety features also includes the next generation Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS), Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and enhanced impact protection for pedestrians and cyclists. New options available for the first time on the XC70 run the gamut from adaptive cruise control with collision warning and brake support to the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Personal Car Communicator (PCC) with Keyless Drive, two-way car communication and heartbeat sensor.

Inside the cabin, the XC70 represents Scandinavian design at its best - every detail has been designed focusing on clean lines and intelligent functionality. Comfort in the front includes "ortho-posture" supportive seats and ergonomically designed instruments including an elegant, super-slim center stack. The rear seat splits 40/20/40 offering the flexibility of seating for three or two outboard passengers separated by a wide armrest. Backrests can be folded separately to create a larger load compartment with an entirely flat floor.

The luggage compartment floor is equipped with aluminum rails and movable anchorage points to secure the load. Side panels also have built-in load anchorage eyelets to keep luggage securely in place. In addition, they can be supplemented with multifunctional rails for a variety of hooks, load-anchoring nets, cargo space dividers and other load-related accessories.

An extensive list of standard amenities can be augmented with a world-class sound system. The Audio Package includes Premium Sound Dynaudio® with a 650-watt amplifier, Dolby Pro-Logic II Surround Sound, 12 Dynaudio® speakers, 6-CD changer, rear seat headphone jacks and Sirius^TM Satellite Radio. The Volvo Navigation System with DVD map data and remote control along with a dual screen rear seat entertainment system is also available.