Volvo's excellent and ever-popular V70 received a slight makeover for 2005 with new headlight and taillight designs as well as changes to the chrome grille, center console, and windshield wipers. These updates helped to improve an already stylish vehicle.
The company that invented the three-point seatbelt continues its devotion to occupant safety with many standard safety features. Front and side-impact airbags as well as overhead curtain airbags lend to an overall feeling of security. The wonderful WHIPS system causes the headrests to move rearward when the car is hit from behind, reducing or preventing whiplash injury.
Stability Traction Control is standard on the 2.4 models, while Dynamic Stability Traction Control is optional on 2.4s and standard on T5 and R models. The difference between the two is the Active Yaw Control included with DSTC, which aids with directional stability in a lateral skid. A multi-link rear suspension and front and rear anti-roll bars contribute to the wonderful handling; speed-sensitive steering is also standard.
New options include rear-park assist (an obstacle-detection that is a great thing for parents of little ones). The audio system also comes satellite radio-ready for those who are thinking of subscribing to such a service.
Users raved as always about the fantastically comfortable seats, the exceptional ride, and the wagon's superb handling and surprising (to some) pep. Cargo space and the standard-equipment heated power mirrors also received accolades. Young parents thanked the Swedish stars for the integrated booster seats, and countless tots are probably thanking them, too, for the better view that they lend.
The complaints for the 2005 V70 are about the same for any recent Volvo: skimpy legroom in the backseat, and high cost of maintenance. But everything else about the car sounds so great that they'll probably get over it.