Volvo V70 Cross Country

What is it?
Volvo V70 Cross Country

What's special about it?
This is Volvo's latest SUV alternative and it picks up where the last version, introduced in 1997, left off. Every aspect of the new V70 Cross Country (or XC, as it's commonly known) has been addressed to give the vehicle even greater utility and off- road prowess. Starting with the interior, Volvo gave the wagon a more versatile second seat that folds down in three sections. This 40-20-40 design means that longer items can extend up from the cargo area without compromising the four more comfortable seats. Wheelbase is up by almost 4 inches while front and rear tracks have been widened. This has the combined effect of improving high-speed stability while simultaneously increasing interior volume. Ground clearance has been raised by 2 inches and the previous all-wheel drive system is now accompanied by Volvo's new TRACS stability system. TRACS senses individual wheel slippage and gradually applies braking force to counteract unwanted yaw rate due to slippage. Exterior differences between the V70 and V70 XC go beyond a raised ride height to include lower body cladding with integrated fog lights and skid plates front and rear. While still not an official off-road vehicle, the V70 XC has a 200 horsepower 2.4-liter engine that uses a light pressure turbo for maximum torque (210 foot-pounds) at a low 1,800 rpm. This helps the V70 XC get to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds and gives it plenty of pulling power for its intended level of utility. Features available on the XC include a 12-volt power outlet in the luggage compartment, an shopping bag holder integrated into the cargo area floor, safety belts integrated into the seatbacks and an electric cooler box that fits into the rear seat's center section.

Why should you care?
Rising gas prices and a growing backlash against SUVs could steal their "fad status" faster than Mr. Hussein can invade Kuwait. The V70 XC, with its excellent performance and gas mileage, is well positioned to fill the needs of buyers who want utility without buying a Sport Utility Vehicle.