2006 Volvo V70

The Volvo V70 is an obvious choice for discerning families, especially those in cold climates. Volvo's middle name is Safety, and standard features on the 2006 V70 include ABS, daytime running lights, traction and stability control, collapsible steering column, padded head restraints, an energy-absorbing interior, and driver and passenger airbags (including side-curtain). The passenger-side air bag is equipped with a sensor that deactivates the air bag if there is no passenger present.

Comfort and convenience features found in all trims are ergonomically-designed seats with lumbar support (seat-heaters and leather are available as options),  power mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with controls for audio and cruise, dual-zone climate control, and a trip computer. A further note on the front seat design: the seats are anti-submarining, meaning that they are contoured to keep the occupant from sliding out from under their seatbelt in a collision.

Fuel economy is acceptable for a car of this substance: the 2.4 and 2.5T trims deliver an average of 21 city and 29 highway, while the R trim, with its AWD, gives you 18 city/24 highway.

Drivers of the V70 touted its comfort, especially the plush, leather seats, and good looks inside and out. Even the gauges and instrument panel were noticed for their fine appearance. Genuine walnut trim, which comes with the premium option package, adds a nice touch and is an example of the much-appreciated attention to detail evident in the car.

The V70 was also noticed for its great handling; it is a Volvo, after all, but its performance is especially commendable considering it's a station wagon. A couple of  reviewers gushed that the car was fun to drive; again, that's more than you can ask for from a wagon! We couldn't find anyone who felt that the cargo space was inadequate (there is also a cargo cover to shield the contents from prying eyes), but one person wished for more cargo-containment accessories: additional tie-down hooks, storage crannies, and the like. Larger families will want the optional third-row seat.

But not every V70 purchaser found bliss. The expected complaints about maintenance costs, mechanical reliability and accountability from Volvo and dealership service departments were too common, especially for cars averaging just one year old. One disappointed fellow labeled his car a total lemon. Lesser complaints concerned the large turning radius (well, it is a station wagon), the high cost of options, and an issue with a distracting reflection of the dash in the windshield glass.