2008 Volvo XC70 in Houston, TX - $9,977

Engineered with the functionality of an SUV while providing the distinctive Volvo feel of a true premium car, the Swedish automaker introduced the all-new third-generation XC70 crossover to American consumers three years ago. Volvo continues to refine its segment-defining XC70 crossover.

Upgrades and enhancements for 2011 include: all-wheel drive with Instant TractionTM now optional, cargo cover and power folding rear head restraints added to Convenience Package, Sirius satellite radio is now standard, blue band windshield added to Climate Package, and rear park assist camera added to Multimedia Package.

With an elevated feel and driving dynamics that are exhilarating yet comfortable, the roomy yet luxurious interior of the XC70 is peerless in functional versatility.

Available in 3.2 and T6 AWD models, base power for the all-wheel drive XC70 is generated by a 3.2L in-line six cylinder engine which receives a 5-hp increase for 2011. The T6 model is equipped with a 3.0L twin-scroll turbo in-line six-cylinder engine which also receives an increase in both hp and torque. Energy for both engines is communicated to the ground through a six-speed automatic transmission with Geartronic and an electronically controlled all-wheel-drive Haldex unit.

Volvo engineers gave the XC70's bona fide approach, departure, ramp angle and ground clearance capabilities as follows: approach angle 19.2 degrees; departure angle: 24 degrees; ramp angle: 19.8 degrees; and ground clearance 8.27 inches.

In order to assist the driver when starting on an uphill gradient, the XC70 has a smart, electrically operated parking brake system known as Power Parking Brake. If the parking brake is engaged at a traffic light for instance, it is automatically disengaged when the accelerator is pressed and the vehicle moves off. (The driver's seat belt must be secured for this function to operate.) The parking brake is engaged by pushing a lever to the left of the steering wheel and disengaged by pulling the lever. To ensure that the parking brake is applied when the vehicle is parked, it is automatically engaged with the key is removed from the ignition switch.

Inside the XC70 is spacious and comfortable. There is good rear leg and knee room with plenty of shoulder room in the front seats. The comfort of Volvo seats is legendary and the XC70 is no exception. All seating positions front and rear are heated for added comfort when the weather turns cold.

The 40/20/40 split rear seat features a comfortable armrest. The center seatback can be folded to make space for long cargo items or raised to provide an additional seat. The seatbacks can be folded separately to create a larger load compartment with an entirely flat floor. With the foldable front passenger seatback, the combination possibilities are even greater.

The cargo area floor is equipped with aluminum rails and movable anchorage points to secure the load. The anchorage points can be tucked down into the rails when they are not in used so they are entirely out of the way. The 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.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 110.8; overall length: 190.5; width: 73.3; height: 63.1

All vehicle measurements in inches

Engine: 3.2L six-cylinder: 240 hp at 6,400 rpm and 236 lbs-ft of torque at 3,200 rpm; 3.0L six-cylinder turbo – 300 hp at 5,600 rpm and 325 lbs-ft of torque at 2,100 – 4,200 rpm

Transmission: six-speed automatic with Geartronic

EPA Fuel Economy: 3.2L six-cylinder - 18 city/25 hwy (FWD), 18 city/24 hwy. (AWD); 3.0L six-cylinder turbo – 17 city/22 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 72.1 cubic feet

Towing capacity: 3,300 lbs

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, front/rear fog lights, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitors, central locking system, remote keyless entry, hill decent control, alarm system, traction control and dynamic stability control.

Optional safety features include: HomeLink garage door opener, park assist, Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps, active bending light, navigation system personal car communicator, adaptive cruise control, collision warning with auto brake, distance alert, driver alert control and lane departure warning.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile

Corrosion: 12-year/unlimited

Roadside Assistance: 4-year/unlimited 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2011 Volvo XC70 crossover starts from $32,000 for the 3.2 FWD, $34,000 for the 3.2 AWD and $38,000 for the T6 AWD. Destination charges add $875.