KEY POINTS:
Only in a story about a Volvo could you kick off with an appreciation of the built-in booster seat. Sexy it ain't, but the new two-piece cushion in the V70's rear seat is a brilliant piece of work if you have kids to transport.
The booster system in the previous V70 was already a unique selling point for the Swedish maker, but the new model goes one better with a dual-height adjustable cushion that suits a much wider range of ages. Naturally, it's safety first - the rear seatbelts have force limiters specially adjusted for children, and the side-curtain airbag has been extended by 60mm to better protect small passengers.
So forget about Volvo's assertion that the third-generation V70 has a "dual personality... meaning a harmonious balance between spacious, versatile loading functions and sporty characteristics".
The new car does indeed represent Volvo doing what Volvo does best - smart, spacious wagons with high levels of comfort and clever load-carrying ideas. But sporty? No.
The V70 might now be powered by a six-cylinder engine for the first time, but the styling is still staid and the driving experience heavily oriented towards ease of use rather than enjoyment.
Surprised? No. But rather pleased, because there's something powerfully appealing about a car designed with such single-minded purpose, regardless of what the company's marketing spin doctors say.
The tailgate now overlaps the lamps, providing an even wider opening. The glass goes further down at the sides, enhancing rear view. The loading space is increased by 70 litres (compared with the previous V70 model).
The rear seat is split 40/20/40. The luggage compartment has aluminium rails and movable anchorage points, which can be tucked down into the rails when not in use.
The built-in anchorage eyelets in the side panels keep luggage securely in place. In addition, the side panels can be equipped with multi-functional rails, making it possible to attach hooks, load-anchoring nets and space dividers.
Where the V70 has changed character somewhat is its ability to fill a luxury-car role. The frontal styling owes much to Volvo's flagship S80 sedan, as does the exquisitely simple and elegant dashboard layout. That, combined with the grunt of the new 175kW/320Nm six-pot engine and the supremely comfortable seating, means the V70 has real potential as an executive express - providing you don't mind looking like an antique dealer.
The eight-speaker sound system has controls on the steering wheel and is iPod and MP3 compatible.
Other standard features include leather upholstery, electric windows, cruise control, trip computer, cargo area cover and luggage net and dual zone electronic climate control air conditioning.
The V70 sells for $69,990, with the 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission.
The V70 also still provides the base for the soft-road XC70 wagon, which has all-wheel-drive, a raised ride height and minor styling changes.
The XC70 is $79,990 with the petrol six, or $82,990 with a turbo diesel powerplant.
