2009 Volvo XC70 - Review

The somewhat old-fashioned keypad-based interface can be counter-intuitive

Enlarge PhotoSeating comfort is high in all positions, though tall rear seat passengers may not find an abundance of leg room. Still, it’s an improvement over the previous model thanks to the car’s switchover to the same platform that underlies the S80 during the 2008 model year.

A rather slick key engagement system accepts the entire fob much in the way a CD-disc player accepts its payload. Once it’s in place, a simple button press starts and stops the car, and then all it takes to free the key fob is another press to trigger the auto-eject mechanism.

One of the XC70’s more deceptive qualities is its rather high door sill height. Though it’s not very tall at the roof line, for a crossover, it does have a good deal of ground clearance - 8.3 inches - and a generous amount of floor-to-sill height, which means you’ll have to lift your legs up to get in and step down surprisingly far to get out. It’s not a situation that would be inconvenient or difficult for most people, but those with joint pain, limited range of motion or other physical limitations on leg-raising might want to pay special attention to this aspect of XC70 ownership before buying. And those in a hurry, encumbered by big feet, or both, will want to note it’s a trip hazard.

Safety has long been Volvo’s strong suit, or at least the company has framed it as such, and the XC70 T6 doesn’t disappoint on the feature list. Beyond the AWD system to enhance grip in treacherous conditions, the car features anti-lock brakes, fully independent suspension front and rear, electronic brake distribution, ‘ready-alert’ brakes that anticipate emergency stops, plus hill descent control, tire pressure monitoring, stability and traction control, a safety cage made of high-tensile steel, full curtain side impact airbags, side-impact airbags, dual front airbags, whiplash protection in the front seats, and advanced seat belts and child anchor points.