• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I didnt buy it to make a personal statement. I bought it because its a car I have always wanted to own. Its a complete wolf in sheep's clothing. Those who know what they are/are capable of appreciate them. Its discreet and understated.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Absolutely love it. The colour, the sound it makes, the overall look too. Its subtle and sophisticated yet can really pick its skirts up when needed.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Most definitely. Its solid, well built and safe. Comfortable and luxurious. A tad thirsty about town (21-22 mpg) but you dont buy a car like this for economy.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    It will be a while before I let this one go but most definitely another Volvo. Nothing comes close to the comfort, refinement and ability for the money.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £6,300

    When did you buy the car?

    April 2012

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    The dealer was amazing. Treated me like absolute royalty from start to finish. Could not believe how professional they were.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Always wanted one and found exactly the one I was looking for. It really is worth taking the time to search and be prepared to wait to find a really clean example.

    What was the dealer like?

    Ensured that I was entirely satisfied with the car from the very beginning of the purchase. Fitted roof bars, a 7 seat conversion, brand new pirelli p-zero tyres, full service (including cambelt), new 12 month MOT, 3 month comprehensive warranty and put right any little niggles that I picked up on from test drive and visual inspection.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Absolutely blistering performance that lasts right through the rev range. Pulls like a freight train. It can struggle to put the power down in the wet and can feel a little shaky when the power initially kicks in but it will eat motorway miles with ease. Its slightly stiffer in the suspension stakes than a standard V70 and can be a little harsh on backroads.

    What's it like to park?

    No issue whatsoever with the parking sensors. The turning circle is huge however which can make parking in multi-storeys rather embarrassing when you have to reverse it at each level just to make the corners.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Blew a fuse for the rear wiper on the day I collected it. 10 minute job to put right. Bar that, nothing else to date (fingers crossed).

    What's most practical about your car?

    The 7 seat conversion and roof bars means I can transport the family all together with a roof box for days out/holidays etc but also have the performance car I always wanted. It's a fair compromise.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The stereo is flawless and the integrated phone and satnav are also a major plus.