During a press preview that morning, Volvo representatives went over a few key improvements that might not be immediately

The XC70 has some of the most comfortable seats I've ever experienced. (Photo: Volvo Cars of Canada)

noticeable but nonetheless add refinement to the 2005 model. I noticed the first of these as soon as I slipped behind the wheel, a process that planted my backside into one of the most comfortable driving seats I've ever experienced. Volvo knows its XC70 customers well, and rather than subject them to firm sport seats, which are quite suitable to the brand's S40, V50 and S60 models, such wouldn't go over as well in the luxurious midsize crossover. Volvo also redesigned the center stack, featuring an updated stereo interface and an innovative climate control system. What makes it innovative? The Volvo Electronic Climate Control system (ECC), standard

The Volvo Electronic Climate Control system (ECC), standard equipment on the XC70, uses two temperature sensors to keep temperatures comfortable. (Photo: Volvo Cars of Canada)

equipment on the XC70, uses two temperature sensors to keep temperatures comfortable. An on-board computer not only senses the temperature and then determines the level of heat or air conditioning needed, but it also decides where in the cabin the temperature is higher or lower and sends hot or cold airflow to the location out of sync with the chosen temperature level. Important in Quebec this time of year, the system also heats up the car quickly. It only needs the engine to be running at 3 degrees Celsius (37 degrees F) in order to start sending heat through the vents, which means soon after the engine starts up heat begins to flow.