Volvo launched a redesigned V70 wagon for the 2008 model year. While the previous-generation V70 was based on the S60 sedan, the new V70 shares its underpinnings with the larger S80. Together, the V70 and S80 rival BMW's 5-Series line and Mercedes-Benz's E-Class.

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The V70 can be ordered with front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. Only one engine is currently offered in the V70 lineup in North America. The powerplant is a naturally-aspriated inline-six that delivers 235 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 236 pound-feet of torque at 3200 rpm. A turbocharged T6 model is sold in Europe, but is currently not available in the U.S. or Canada.

Thanks to its S80 chassis, the new V70 is quite a bit larger than its predecessor. Rear legroom has increased by nearly two inches, and front shoulder room has grown by over an inch.

The V70's all-new interior is also substantially more luxurious than that of the the old model. Better materials and new technology contribute to an improved look and feel. On the technology front, ventilated front seats with perforated leather are an option. The seats provide heat in the winter and cooling in the summer.

In terms of interior cargo space, volume has increased by 55 liters, compared with the previous V70 model. The rear seat splits into three parts -- 40/20/40 -- providing a number of options for passenger/storage combinations.

New safety features include: a height-adjustable integrated child booster cushion, "active" bi-xenon headlamps that swivel to point into corners, adaptive cruise control that uses radar to keep a safe distance from cars, a collision warning system for avoiding rear impacts, an updated Whiplash Protection System, an extended inflatable curtain airbag for more rear passenger protection, and a softer front fascia and good for improved pedestrian impact safety.