The right package... at the wrong price
The Volvo XC70 is a pretty brilliant idea per se. To tell you the truth, I think it's the perfect mold for an off-road vehicle, one that should suit the needs of a large number of unfortunate drivers who chose to buy an unnecessarily big and thirsty truck.
Much like the Subaru Outback and the now-defunct Audi Allroad, the XC70 combines off-road capability with the versatility of a decently-sized wagon. Quite a simple formula, isn't it? Thank you 1980 AMC Eagle!
From a marketing standpoint, the introduction of the XC70 in the late 1990s brought a practical solution to the Volvo lineup, which was then devoid of a true utility vehicle. The heir to the original 850 AWDs evolved both technically and aesthetically to stand out from anything else. Indeed, the XC70 has developed its own unique personality, as is the case with the Outback and Legacy.
Even more distinctive
That's why the 2008 XC70 has been redesigned: to be even more distinctive. With larger headlights and a more prominent grille, Volvo designers tried to emphasize its ruggedness. Actually, the new model is slightly bigger -- both in length and in height -- than its predecessor.
The XC70 shares its architecture with the S80 sedan and its urban counterpart, the V70 wagon. This long-wheelbase, wide-track chassis offers passengers a bit more legroom, hip room and shoulder room.
The new interior layout proves to be modern and becoming. With a "floating" center stack (a design cue borrowed from the S40 and V50) and a brushed aluminum trim that make the dashboard appear less substantial, I had the impression of sitting behind the wheel of a car belonging to the guy who designed Mac computers. Simply put, the interior of the XC70 is a treat to the eye.
More conservative drivers will appreciate the wooden appliqués which give the car a more classy look. Matching wood inlays are found on the steering wheel.
The Volvo XC70 is a pretty brilliant idea per se. To tell you the truth, I think it's the perfect mold for an off-road vehicle, one that should suit the needs of a large number of unfortunate drivers who chose to buy an unnecessarily big and thirsty truck.
Much like the Subaru Outback and the now-defunct Audi Allroad, the XC70 combines off-road capability with the versatility of a decently-sized wagon. Quite a simple formula, isn't it? Thank you 1980 AMC Eagle!
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| The XC70 offers a judicious balance between exterior size and interior room. |
From a marketing standpoint, the introduction of the XC70 in the late 1990s brought a practical solution to the Volvo lineup, which was then devoid of a true utility vehicle. The heir to the original 850 AWDs evolved both technically and aesthetically to stand out from anything else. Indeed, the XC70 has developed its own unique personality, as is the case with the Outback and Legacy.
Even more distinctive
That's why the 2008 XC70 has been redesigned: to be even more distinctive. With larger headlights and a more prominent grille, Volvo designers tried to emphasize its ruggedness. Actually, the new model is slightly bigger -- both in length and in height -- than its predecessor.
The XC70 shares its architecture with the S80 sedan and its urban counterpart, the V70 wagon. This long-wheelbase, wide-track chassis offers passengers a bit more legroom, hip room and shoulder room.
The new interior layout proves to be modern and becoming. With a "floating" center stack (a design cue borrowed from the S40 and V50) and a brushed aluminum trim that make the dashboard appear less substantial, I had the impression of sitting behind the wheel of a car belonging to the guy who designed Mac computers. Simply put, the interior of the XC70 is a treat to the eye.
More conservative drivers will appreciate the wooden appliqués which give the car a more classy look. Matching wood inlays are found on the steering wheel.
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| The XC70 is very sophisticated and accordingly priced. |