If you need a fast station all wheel drive station wagon this just might be the one, but be prepared to forfeit over $45,000 for a loaded version. The V70 R utilizes a turbocharged and intercooled 2.5-liter 20-valve, 5 cylinder engine to create 300 horsepower for your enjoyment with all wheel drive if you care to try your luck in the winter. By the way, don't even think about using this potent puffer without winter tires even with the new Instant Traction program that provides 50 percent of available power to either the front or rear wheels.

2006 Volvo V70 R (Photo: Volvo)

Mom's view: We owned a Volvo wagon for years because I liked the safety features. This model has more of the same with Dynamic Stability Traction Control, a Whiplash Protection System, side and head impact airbags as well as ABS, and a safety cage. I loved the look of the Volvo wagon, but hated the low front spoiler that could easily double as a snowplow and can be shredded on most any tax provincial roadway's frost heave. The xenon night lighting is superior and the interior gauges lovely. Unfortunately, it has a huge turning radius so expect to take a couple of maneuvers before you can park it.

I felt at ease while driving this Volvo, but I couldn't seem to get the transmission and engine to coordinate their actions unless I used the autoshift feature. Personally, I would go for the base Volvo wagon and save $10,000 while still enjoying the enormous 71 cubic feet of cargo room and safety and be much more willing to take it out come a snowy day.

2006 Volvo V70 R (Photo: Volvo)

Dad's view: I was very excited to test a performance vehicle for a change, but that proved to be short lived. The six-speed automatic transmission takes the edge off the turbocharged power and the brake pedal modulating the four-wheel discs is wooden in feel. The 3750-pound Volvo feels heavier than it is when it comes to cornering, accelerating, and stopping. But that poundage is put to enjoyable use on the highway where the ride is well behaved and you have a choice of what type of shock absorber resistance you want from stern to sedate. Look for 0 to 60 rides taking about 6.5 seconds. Overall a nice utility player with something to please everyone, but order the manual transmission if you want to be a player.

2006 Volvo V70 R (Photo: Volvo)

Young working woman's view: A terrific looking interior with comfortable seats and doors that close like a bank vault give evidence that this is no ordinary station wagon. Driving it is easy, but be warned that the turbo comes on quickly. Visibility is good and Volvo has finally provided a stereo that doesn't take a genius to operate. The GPS is difficult to read being housed under the front windshield and controlled by buttons in back of the steering wheel. I averaged 21 miles for every gallon of premium used. The Volvo R treads the middle ground for all wheel drive performance wagons. It is not as large or fast as the 345 horsepower Dodge Magnum, not as awe inspiring as the expensive Mercedes E55, and not as soft at the Audi A6.