2012 Volvo XC70 T-6

Volvo has long been known for two things: extremely safe cars and ultrareliable wagons. Sadly, with the recent departures of the V50 and V70, Volvo appears to be relegating its wagons (at least in the U.S. market) to the dustbin of history. The XC70 is the last Volvo that resembles a wagon, but Volvo qualifies it as a crossover that slots between the XC60 and the XC90. The XC70's wagon roots shine through the crossover moniker, however, with its long, low body and the availability of a front-wheel-drive model powered by the base 3.2-liter in-line six. The same turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder that makes an appearance elsewhere in Volvo's lineup (S60, S80, XC60) is mated to a four-wheel-drive system. The XC70's updated interior includes a larger screen for the infotainment system--a big upgrade from the previous retracting screen--as well as a revised center console similar to the one in the S60 sedan. Volvo's City Safety system automatically applies the brakes if it senses a collision and is standard equipment. A slew of other active and passive safety features are included, and blind-spot monitoring is optional. The XC70 is a family-friendly vehicle with available rear-seat DVD screens and integrated booster seats that can be raised to two different heights for children of all sizes.