2008 Volvo V70

Volvo’s V70 wagon is new in both appearance and under the skin, with distinctive styling that draws styling cues from the new Volvo S80 sedan. Still built as a safe family car, the V70 now has a powerful, sporty look with a raised hood and a roof line that slopes down at the rear.

At the rear, the taillights seem to stretch to the outside edges, giving the new wagons a wide stance. In a styling cue taken from the XC60 concept, the Volvo brand on the tailgate is more pronounced with large letters widely spaced across the rear.

Inside the level of luxury has increased with a high-end audio system, more comfortable seats and the slim center stack, which has become a trademark of Volvo cars.

For the first time the V70 will be offered with a 238-horsepower 3.2-liter inline 6-cylinder engine and a turbo 5-cylinder will also be available. The T6 version adds a twin-scroll turbocharger which boosts power to 285 horsepower.

While the V70 has increased luxury and capabilities, it hasn't lost the utility typically associated with a wagon. Cargo space has been increased over the current generation, and the rear seat easily folds, with a 40/20/40 split. An innovative hook and track system in the cargo area along with a flexible cargo net provide an easy way to secure loads.

Of course, you can't talk about a new Volvo without mentioning safety innovations, and these new wagons have plenty. Some examples include integrated booster seats in the outward rear seats; Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) which tells the driver if there is a vehicle in his or her blind spot; Collision Warning with Brake Support which can help driver's to avoid causing rear-end collisions; and a number of advanced braking functions.