2008 Volvo C70 Review

Standard features include fabric upholstery, power front seats, leather steering wheel with controls, and a deluxe stereo featuring an in-dash six-disc CD changer, MP3 playback capability, eight speakers and four amplifiers. Seventeen-inch Sadira alloy wheels come standard, while 18-inch Mirzam alloy wheels are optional ($750).

The Convenience Package ($1,595) bundles the Blind Spot Information System (with cameras near the outside mirrors to detect vehicles where the driver might not see them), keyless drive, Interior Air Quality System (IAQS), power retractable mirrors, and rear park assist. The Premium Package ($1,495) combines leather seating with auto-dimming rearview mirror, compass, and HomeLink; Premium Package buyers may add Sovereign Hide leather ($995) in a choice of three colors. The Climate Package ($675) comprises heated front seats, headlamp washers and rain-sensing wipers. The Dynaudio sound system ($1,550) features 12 speakers and five main amplifiers, plus two separate subwoofer/amplifiers blasting 910 total watts via Dolby ProLogic II Surround Sound. Stand-alone options include bi-xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps with washers ($700), DVD navigation ($2,120), Sirius Satellite Radio ($295), silver metallic paint ($475), and pearlescent white paint ($625).

Safety features include electronic stability control with traction control, and anti-lock brakes (ABS) with brake force distribution (EBD). In addition to the required front airbags, there are side airbags in front, and air curtains which activate upwards from the doors, even with the windows rolled down. The Rollover Protection System (a pop-up roll bar), is activated by a pyrotechnic charge, which will smash the roll bars through the glass when the roof is on. New for 2008 is Automatic Hazard Warning: Should any of the C70's airbags be deployed, the hazard lights automatically activate to attract the attention of other motorists. A standard tire-pressure monitor has also been added for 2008.