2008 Volvo C70 Review

The 2008 Volvo C70 is a four-passenger coupe/convertible with a 2.5 liter, turbo-charged, inline-five under the hood producing 227 horsepower with a six-speed manual transmission (front wheel drive.) A five-speed automatic transmission is optional. The opening MSRP for the C70 is $39,240. Expected fuel economy is 27 mpg out on the road and 18 in town.

Unlike previous generations, the 2008 C70 uses a retractable hardtop making this a convertible suitable for all seasons of the year. The top can be stowed away with the push of a button in approximately 30 seconds and thanks to a stacking system, no space is wasted in the trunk when the top is down.

Traditionally Volvos have been known for their squarish appearance, but the C70 is a study in elegant, rounded corners. The standard wheels are seven-inch aluminum but an upgrade will get drivers brightly finished alloy at eighteen-inches.

Although the standard interior upholstery for the ergonomically formed front seats is vinyl, leather is on the option list as well as a premium Sovereign Hide for a more supple feel. Trim of laminated oak covers the doors and center console rather than the cold metallic of previous model years. The driver's seat is powered as a standard feature with the passenger side optional. For hauling long items, the designers provided a pass-though between the back seats.

There's a six-CD changer in the dash and the audio unit includes input for an MP3 player. Look for controls mounted on the steering wheel and twelve speakers, five amplifiers, and two sub-woofers for impressive surround sound. Both a navigation system and Sirius Satellite Radio are optional.

Equipped with an impressive array of safety systems, the 2008 Volvo C70 may well be one of the most stable convertibles on the market. Both front and side airbags are present as well as bags in the curtain position that deploy from the doors. The anti-lock brakes feature force distribution and both electronic stability and traction control are present. For protection from vehicle rollover, a pop-up rollbar is deployed. If the roof is in place, deployment occurs with sufficient force to put the bar in its active position. Later in the year a Blind Spot Information System will become available that activates warning lights in the side mirrors.

2008 Volvo S40 Review

The four-door, five-passenger 2008 Volvo S40 carries an MSRP ranging from $24,365 to $30,365. The sport sedan is offered in two trim levels, the 2.4i and T5. The two engines are a 2.4 liter I-5 (168 horsepower) and a 2.5 liter I-5 (227 horsepower). Fuel economy is estimated at approximately 20 mpg around town and 22-28 on the highway. Both a five speed automatic and manual transmission are available as are front and all-wheel drive.

For 2008 Volvo re-sculpted the nose of the S40 and made the lower air intake broader, adding a larger logo to the distinctive grille with its diagonal cross member. On the T5 the Dynamic Trim Package will add a spoiler to the trunk, side skirts, and spoilers below the rear bumper and for the "chin." The standard 16-inch alloy wheels can be replaced with a 17-inch model.

As part of the standard S40 interior a woven upholstery is used but can be replaced with leather. More storage space has been added to the center console and door pockets. Watch-style gauges have been added to the T5, which sports aluminum trim. (Nordic Light Oak is a trim option on the 2.4i.)

Each rear seatback folds down and the backrest on the front passenger seat folds flat. On the base model, air conditioning, power locks, keyless, entry, power windows, and an MP3 jack are standard as is a telescoping steering wheel that tilts and is wrapped in leather. The single-CD audio unit can be upgraded to a changer in the dash with a six-disc capacity. (Controls on the steering wheel are also standard.)

Move up to the T5 and you get Sirius Satellite standard with six months of service free. The driver's seat picks up powered adjustments and a trip computer is an added extra. The T5 premium package adds a sunroof, power for the passenger side, and leather seats. GPS navigation, xenon headlights, keyless ignition, and premium audio are available options.

Both models of the 2008 Volvo S40 are equipped with airbags in the front, side, and side curtain positions. Systems for stability, traction, and tire pressure monitoring are present as are anti-lock, all-disc brakes. As an optional safety feature, a Blind Spot Information System can be added with indicator lights mounted inbord of the side mirrors.

2008 Volvo S60 Review

The 2008 Volvo S60 is available for $30,885 to $33,985 MSRP in three trim levels. The four door, five-passenger sedan occupies a middle of the line position between the S40 (considered "entry level") and the S80 at the top of Volvo's line.

The base 2.5T and the 2.5T AWD come with a turbo five generating 236 horsepower while the T5 jumps to a five-cylinder (turbo charged) putting out 258 hp. Both a five-speed automatic and manual are available.

The models span the range from practical to high comfort. On the 2.5T look for cloth on the seats, a single CD audio unit, and manual controls on the passenger seat. Move up to the T5 and add such available technological niceties as wipers that sense when it's raining, a navigation system, and sensors for parking.

True to the Volvo tradition, all three models in the S60 line carry a comprehensive array of safety measures with seats designed to prevent whiplash, systems for stability control, and a compliment of six airbags.

Visually the S60 looks a little more curved for the coming model year. Gone are the angular grille and bumper of previous years with lithe lines and better aerodynamics taking their place. On the TV both xenon headlights (high-intensity discharge) and a rear spoiler can be added.

The 2008 Volvo S60 makes the jump from zero to sixty in 6.6 to 7.2 seconds depending on the engine. Expect to get 17 to 19 miles per gallon around town and anywhere from 26 to 27 on the highway. Overall the Volvo S60 is a solid purchase with excellent available options that competes favorably with the Acura TL and Lincoln MKZ.

2008 Volvo XC70 Review

A crossover wagon/SUV, the 2008 Volvo XC70 seats 5 or 7 and comes in one model, the base 2.5T AWD. Built as a wagon, the XC70 has a slightly higher ground clearance and displays some of the exterior design characteristics of an SUV. You will immediately experience the benefit of the XC70's higher point of view during an impromptu road test. The XC70 is powered by a 2.5 liter 5-cylinder engine which produces 208 hp @5000 rpm and 236 lb-ft torque @4500 rpm. With an AWD configuration, the 2008 XC70 sports a 5-speed automatic transmission with stick-auto capability.

Luxury styling cues, such as a leather steering wheel, faux wood accents, and leather shift handle, carry a consistent theme throughout the interior of the 2008 XC70. Standard equipment shipped with the XC70 include: 6-speaker AM/FM, CD player, external mirrors that are power adjustable and heated, tinted windows, and sound system buttons on the steering wheel. You can add numerous individual amenities to your XC70 including: headlight wipers, garage door activator, parking proximity sensor array, and a power sunroof. You may opt for one of the Volvo premium packages, such as a climate package which includes heated seats and rain sensor.

Recognizing the precious cargo you transport in your 2008 Volvo XC70, safety is addressed with the following features: side curtain airbags, side impact airbags, front airbags, anti-whiplash seats, cushioned headrests, and roadside assistance on-call. Other, less-visible safety features built in to the XC70 include crumple zone areas in the engine compartment to prevent driver and front passenger area intrusion, child seat anchoring technology, and a steel passenger safety matrix.

Fuel economy specs for the 2008 Volvo XC70 are 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. On the road, the XC70 is quiet with negligible engine noise, imperceptible road feedback, and no hint of squeaks or rattles. Whether you are driving the highway or a well-traveled dirt road, the road manners of the XC70 are impeccable. Acceleration is plentiful due to the XC70's 2.5 liter 5-cylinder engine. The XC70 AWD holds the road with tenacity, boasting a suspension system fortified with traction control and enhanced stability. Unpaved roads are barely perceived in the XC70 as the suspension is fully capable of handling all but the most uncivilized road conditions.

2008 Volvo V70 Review

The best way to carry family and cargo is in the full-size 2008 Volvo V70 wagon. With configurable cargo and seating, it is possible to fit your busy life, work, play, and travel into the V70 with room to spare. The V70 comes in 3 stylish models, the V70 2.4, 2.5T, or the V70 R, to mesh with just about any lifestyle. Amazingly powerful yet compact, the 5-cylinder engines for the V70 pump out 168 hp, 208, hp, and 300 hp.

The spacious interior at first glance looks larger than the outside of the vehicle, at 71.4 cubic feet. The driver cockpit is well organized ergonomically, with convenient controls on the steering wheel. The front seats are specially designed to reduce whiplash. Instrumentation on the V70 is fresh and easily read. Luxury details include leather steering wheel, thick floor carpeting, lit makeup mirrors, compass, and front armrest.

Volvo is best known for its attention to safety, and the 2008 V70 is right in step with a full armamentarium of airbags, child seat attachments, steel passenger cage, engine compartment crumple zone, and steel side impact door beams. Driving the 2008 Volvo V70 is a pleasant experience with easy handling, able acceleration, and capable handling. The big wagon was surprisingly nimble, quiet and stable. The V70 is ideally suited for long treks out of state or around town.

Especially rewarding is the attention to detail on the exterior of the V70. All seams were tight and smooth. There were no gaps or surfaces out of line. Fuel consumption specs for the 2008 V70 were 18 mpg in the city for the 300 hp models to 29 on the highway for the 168 and 208 hp engines. The 2008 Volvo V70 is the quintessential wagon to drive if you seek luxury, economy, and safety. Volvo has set the mark for quality in the full-size wagon segment.

2008 Volvo XC90 Review

The 2008 Volvo XC90 is a full-size luxury SUV which comes in three styles. The 3.2 is powered by a 3.2 liter inline 6-cylinder engine that produces 235 hp, the XC90 AWD with a 4.4 liter V8 engine that produces 311 hp, and the Volvo XC90 SPORT with a 4.4 liter V8 engine that generates 311 hp. All three versions come with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The XC90 was Volvo's first SUV and has continued to garner respect and confidence from its owners, through its constant commitment to safety.

With a luxury driving environment in mind, Volvo engineers outfitted the interior of the 2008 XC90 with amenities such as: a fully adjustable power driver seat, padded headrests, easy to read driver instrumentation, higher vantage point seats, and power door locks. Standard on the XC90 are seatbelt indicator lights, theft-proof remote ignition, and daytime running lights. Nowhere else but the 2008 XC90 can you order the following optional equipment: rear proximity alert, environmental air scrubber, rear view high beam dimmer, and retractable mirrors.

With safety as its primary claim to fame, Volvo puts its best foot safely forward by outfitting the 2008 XC90 with Roll Stability control, steel reinforced side collision protection, impact-reducing interior padding, steel alloy passenger matrix, and a full compliment of driver and passenger airbags. Driving the 2008 Volvo XC90 is especially invigorating with its high stance and matchless road manners. Whether negotiating a winding country road or endless straightaway, the XC90 performs with aplomb. On curves, there is negligible lean, and braking is quick and sure.

Fuel economy is no less important to a Volvo owner, and the XC90 gas mileage specs support the environment: 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway for the 6-cylinder models, and 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway for the V8 models. Owners of the 2008 Volvo XC90 have some degree of love for the environment which they celebrate every time they drive their vehicles. With an environmental quotient of ULEV II (Ultra-Low-Emission Vehicle) for both engines, the XC90 saves gas and the environment as well.

2008 Volvo V50 Review

The 2008 Volvo V50 is a compact wagon which seats 5 passengers and comes in two styles, the 2.4i and the T5. The 2.4i is powered by a 2.5 liter inline 5-cylinder engine that develops 168 hp while the T5 comes with a turbocharged 2.5 liter inline 5-cylinder engine which develops 218 hp. The V50 comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive and an optional 5-speed automatic.

A fine example of what a compact wagon should be, the 2008 Volvo V50 has a very usable rear cargo area and a swing up tailgate revealing a gaping entry. The driver's area caters to safety and control, with plenty of visibility, easily read instrumentation, and fingertip buttons on the steering wheel. As expected, the V50 comes standard with power windows, rear section illumination, loads of storage compartments, cup holders, and map lights.

Safety comes first for every Volvo and the V50 is no different, with everything possible done to protect the driver and passengers. The V50 has Volvo's patented whiplash-proof seats, child seat harness rings, and steel cage passenger protection. The usual compliment of airbags including side impact curtains all serve one purpose, to get you from point a to point b in one piece. On the road, the 2008 V50 performs admirably, with smooth acceleration, level cornering, and bump-absorbing suspension. Volvo clearly has the situation in hand when it comes to driving satisfaction.

The V50 2.4i offers fuel economy specs at 22-mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The 2007 V50 T5 gets 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The exterior of the 2008 Volvo V50 is a concert of smooth lines, well-fitting metal surfaces, and aerodynamic body moldings. The headlights on the V50 are seamless extensions of the front fenders that do not interrupt the graceful sweep of the hood lines. From the color matched front bumpers to the chrome-tipped exhaust, the 2008 Volvo V50 is a successful balance of luxury, performance, and value.

2008 Volvo C30 Review

The new 2008 Volvo C30 may just be the car to change the prejudice of the American public against hatchbacks. With an MSRP expected to come in between $22,700 and $25,700, this four-seater (buckets standard) will offer both speed and style in the highly functional form (already a staple in Europe) that is a much-needed departure from the now ubiquitous SUV.

The Volvo engineers gave the C30 an agressively sloping rear profile that is a departure from the conventional Volvo look. The result is nicely sports car-like, an image supported by the C 30's 2.5-liter Inline-5 engine producing 218 horsepower (with a six speed manual, five speed automatic available.) Expect to break zero to sixty in roughly 6.2 seconds with an estimated fuel economy of 22 around town and 30 out on the road.

The 2008 Volvo C30 is intended to go head-to-head with the enormously popular Mini Cooper, the targeted audience being young city dwellers who want a good looking ride but need some flexibility for hauling in a small, easily parkable package. Add to those attractive features the high Volvo standard for safety and the C30 is going to be a popular option for young families.

2008 Volvo S80 Review

The 2008 Volvo S80, a four-door, five-passenger sedan is available in an MSRP range of $38,705 to $49,210. Since the S80 received a major redesign for 2007, the exterior has changed little for the coming model year.

There are three available engine configurations: a 4.4-liter V8 with AWD, a 3.2-liter six cylinder FWD, and a 3-liter turbocharged inline six with AWD (generating 285 horsepower.) Estimated fuel economy is approximately 16 mpg around town and 24 mpg on the highway.

In the S80's cabin, the dash includes gauges trimmed in metal with both analog and electronic displays. The center stack, in keeping with Volvo tradition, houses all the buttons to control the climate, audio, and safety features with clearly marked, easy to understand buttons. The soft leather and comfortable seats make the S80, like all Volvos, a leader in luxury.

A new "Modern Wood" inlay is available and the knob on the gearshift is now covered in leather. Buyers who opt for the Climate Package can enjoy heated seats in the rear. The available Dynaudio Package adds premium, high-powered sound as well as headphone jacks and audio controls for backseat passengers.

The 2008 Volvo S80 line is outfitted with an impressive array of safety features including all-wheel brakes, a system for traction control, a collision warning system that includes pre-braking technology, cruise control that is radar adaptive, airbags in the front, and dual-chamber bags on the side. The headlights (active xenon) are designed to move with the curvature of the road. An optional system provides information about the vehicle's blind spot.