Increased power and performance
2008 brings with it a new engine for the XC70. Replacing last year's turbocharged 5-banger is a sophisticated inline 6-cylinder DOHC powerplant. The new mill breathes through 24-valves without the aid of turbocharging. The movement of air is enhanced with the use of Continuous Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) technology, culminating in the production of 235 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm and 236 pound-feet of torque @ 3,200 rpm. This represents a gain of 28-horsepower over 2007.

Replacing last year's turbocharged 5-banger is a sophisticated inline 6-cylinder DOHC powerplant.

The larger engine is backed-up by a new automatic transmission loaded with six cogs instead of five. The Geartronic autobox features electronically activated manual-mode shifting. Power is continuously dispensed to all four wheels via Volvo's Instant Traction, AWD system. I tried to initiate wheel spin on a loose gravel incline and was unsuccessful in inducing the slightest amount of spin from any of the four corners.

Countering the claw-like traction is Volvo's Hill Descent Control (HDC), which is new in the XC70 for 2008. Unlike "jerkier" hill descent control systems that I have previously experienced, this setup felt remarkable smooth in its actuation of the XC70's four-wheel antilock disc brakes.

Driving dynamics
When one considers the off-road ability of the XC70, it's difficult not to feel spoiled by its smooth ride and refined road manners. Unlike typical AWD vehicles, the XC70's suspension delivers an absorbent ride rather than rigid, yet that can be altered when stiffer spring calibration is desired. Three settings are available: Comfort, Sport and Advanced.

Not much difference is detectable between the "comfort" and "sport" settings however the "advanced" mode is accompanied by significant stiffening of the XC70's legs. The firmed-up calibration keeps the wagon near dead flat during hard cornering however I find little need for such an attribute in this automotive genre. The XC70 was pleasingly agile and quite capable in the corners while in its "comfort" setting, which was my preference for day-to-day driving.

My appreciation for the XC70's smooth well-composed ride was overshadowed by suspension rumble. Perhaps the absence of wind and road noise served to amplify the discord generated by the car's compliant underpinnings. As minor as this issue is, it would annoy me as an owner

It's difficult not to feel spoiled by its smooth ride and refined road manners.