2007 Volvo XC70

For 2007, the Volvo XC70 receives new equipment. Dynamic stability and traction control are standard; models equipped with the Convenience package receive a power rear-door child lock, privacy glass and auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass; and the Adventure package receives 17-inch wheels. The Adventure package also includes Active Bi-Xenon headlamps, which move in conjunction with the wheels to follow curves in the road.

Halfway between a car and an SUV, the XC70 occupies a niche Volvo calls a “utility vehicle”. It uses a turbocharged 2.5-litre inline five-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, and with an electronically-controlled Haldex all-wheel drive system.

Available in a single trim line, the XC70 includes 16-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors with puddle lights, comfort chassis, front and rear fog lights, headlight washers, brushed aluminum roof rails, cloth/leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, power driver’s seat, fold-flat front passenger seat, 60/40 folding rear seat, leather-wrapped wheel, cargo cover, cruise control, dual-zone electronic climate control, rear wiper/washer, and six-CD stereo with wheel-mounted controls.

Available options include active chassis, speed-sensitive steering, power sunroof, active Bi-Xenon headlamps, leather interior, 40/20/40 split folding rear seat, privacy glass, rain-sensing wipers and rear-seat DVD system.

The XC70 is a superb alternative to an SUV, with plenty of passenger and cargo space, numerous safety features and a fair bit of rough-road capability, with the easy-to-park footprint of a car. It’s basically a taller version of the V70 with a more robust stance and higher ground clearance: should you like that wagon but need to get over a muddy, high-crowned road into your cottage, this is your vehicle.