2010 Volvo V70 Base Wagon

Bodystyle: 4-door wagon
Engines: 3.2L I-6
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic
Models: 3.2, 3.2 R-Design

The V70's big news is its new R-Design model, which brings with it a series of attractive visual embellishments as well some suspension mods designed to tighten-up the handling. Among the latter is a 0.8-inch lower ride height and 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped with 245/40R18 tires. Visually, the R-Design is distinguished by a spoiler atop the tailgate, a ‘silk metal' surfacing of the grille, and black window frames.

With the exception of perhaps Subaru, few other makes who offer the station wagon configuration take it as seriously as Volvo. Hence, its flagship wagon is thoughtful design that's attractive in a sober, conservative way.

Reflecting its reserved exterior design, the V70's interior is both tasteful and functional. Among the latter are highly ergonomic controls for the ventilation and audio systems, triple-spit rear seatbacks and ‘ortho-posture' front seat designs.

Ordinarily you don't have high performance expectations from a station wagon, but with its new R-Design model, the V70 has improved handling to crow about. The V70 R-Design's 245/40R18 tires, lower ride height, and firmer suspension attest to this. However, the power available from both the standard 3.2 and 3.2 R- Design provides an estimated 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds – not slow, but not exactly thrilling, either.

Neither the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety nor the NHTSA offer independent crash results for V70. However, being a Volvo, the V70 is replete with safety features including whiplash-protection headrests, and blind-spot hazard detection -- a feature Volvo played an active role in developing.

3.2 and 3.2 R-Design: 18 mpg city /27 mpg highway (automatic)

New R-Design edition enlivens model