Model Strengths:

• Wide Array of Safety Features
• Roomy Interior With Ample Cargo Space
• Solid, Smooth Ride
• Turbocharger Available On Xc70
• A Sensible Combination of Luxury, Safety and Practicality

Model Overview:

For 2010, the Volvo V70 returns with the base 3.2 trims and introduces the 3.2 R-Design trim, which features a variety of interior and exterior cues. Both trims come with a naturally-aspirated 3.2L inline-6 powerplant engine that makes 235 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The engine is driven by a 6-speed automatic transmission with Geartronic manual shift selection.

The 2010 Volvo XC70 also comes in two trims: the base 3.2 and the T6, a turbocharged version that was introduced in 2009. The base 3.2 has the same engine as the V70, while the T6 gets a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 cylinder engine that produces 281 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque that starts as low as 1500 rpm. The T6 is also mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with Geartronic manual selection.

The V70 is front wheel drive, while the XC70 offers an all-wheel drivetrain only. The XC70, with a ground clearance of 8.3 inches, features MacPherson Struts in front and independent suspension in the rear.

Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, a full complement of airbags and a whiplash protection system are standard on all V70s and XC70s. Other standard features include an adjustable, built-in child booster-seat system, traction control, an anti-skid system, a softer front fascia for improved pedestrian impact safety, tire pressure monitoring, electronic stability control and brake assist.

Optional safety features include the Driver Alert Control system, which sounds a chime and displays a coffee cup symbol in the instrument panel when it senses that the driver might be falling asleep or distracted. The Lane Departure Warning system uses a camera to detect when the driver is swerving or losing concentration. A new collision warning system uses radar sensors to signal the driver if a collision is imminent, pre-charging the brakes and actually applying them at the point where it judges that a collision is unavoidable. 'Active' bi-xenon headlamps that swivel to point into corners, adaptive cruise control that uses radar to keep a safe distance, and Volvo's Blind Spot Information System are also available as options. Many of these features are available in the optional Technology Package.

Standard and optional features on both the V70 and XC70 are almost identical based on trim. On the base 3.2 trims, standard features include air conditioning, cruise control, power doors and windows, keyless entry, heated mirrors, aluminum wheels, performance tires, roof rails, a 40/20/40-split-folding rear seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, integrated rear booster seats, tech-fabric upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, an 8-speaker stereo with 6-CD changer, auxiliary audio jack and a USB/iPod audio interface.

Options available on the 3.2 trims include leather upholstery, a high-end Dynaudio audio system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, automatic climate control, power liftgate, rain sensing wipers, heated seats and remote engine start.

The V70 R-Design adds a standard sunroof, a load-leveling sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, leather upholstery, power passenger seats, real wood and other specific interior trim, to include R-Design pedals, trim, floor mats, gearshift knob, steering wheel and gauges. The V70 3.2 with Moonroof, the XC70 with Moonroof and the XC70 T6 all come with the same equipment as standard.

Option packages available include the Premium package for the 3.2 trims, which adds a sunroof, leather upholstery, an 8-way power passenger seat and real wood interior trim. The Climate package includes heated front seats, heated windshield-washer nozzles, automatic wipers and a high-pressure headlight cleaning system. The Convenience package includes a power liftgate, front and rear parking sensors and a grocery bag holder. The Multimedia package adds a navigation system and a 12-speaker Dynaudio surround-sound system with satellite radio and rear-seat headphone jacks and controls

Model Changes:

A new sporty R-Design trim, featuring bigger wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and unique styling elements inside and out is available for 2010. Ventilated front seats with perforated leather are available as an option for the first time and the base XC70 3.2 trim gets dual exhaust pipes.

Model Value:

The 2010 Volvo V70 wagon and its off-road sibling, the XC70 crossover, stand out for their roomy interior, ride and comfort. Rivals of the V70 include the BMW 5-series and Mercedes Benz E-Series.

The interior of these vehicles is ultra-contemporary, accented by Volvo's trademark 'floating' center stack instrument panel and unique slim, upright center console. Volvo's front seats are among the most ample and well-bolstered in the segment. Both vehicles seat five, while the back seat is split 40/20/40 and sections fold forward for expanded cargo space. The cargo area has a sliding load floor and under-floor storage compartment.

On the outside, these vehicles feature a soft, aerodynamic look in front, with the distinctive Volvo "egg crate" grille, yet they display a roofline that doesn't significantly compromise cargo space. MSRP for the V70 starts at $33,550. Mileage is estimated at 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.