2005 VOLVO XC70 NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2005 Volvo XC70?
Volvo's XC70 feels the winds of change this year. New front and rear lights with jewel-like lenses, more aggressive side cladding, revised bumpers, a fresh grille, aluminum front and rear skid plates, and aluminum roof rails grace the exterior. Inside the 2005 XC70, there's a new center console with walnut wood inserts and a more user-friendly radio design. To improve visibility in foul weather, a new flat-blade windshield wiper and high-pressure headlamp washers come standard. New colors for 2005 include Barents Blue and Lava Sand.

Advantages of the 2005 Volvo XC70:

• Loaded with safety features
• Adjustable suspension height
• All-wheel-drive security
• Excellent front seats
• Driver-oriented controls

Objections to the 2005 Volvo XC70:

• Not a true off-roader
• Noticeable turbo lag
• Pricy compared to the competition

Editor's Advice:
The Volvo XC70 was originally intended to serve as the Swedish automaker's SUV entry. Essentially a buff Volvo V70 wagon with a jacked up suspension and all-wheel-drive, the 2005 Volvo XC70 follows the same recipe that made the Subaru Outback such a success. However, the Volvo XC90, a larger and more capable crossover SUV, overshadows the XC70, which costs nearly as much (and much more than the redesigned Subaru Outback). But for those who want a traditional wagon, with the sure-footedness of all-wheel-drive combined with Volvo's legendary safety engineering, the 2005 XC70 is a fine choice.