Volvo has long held a reputation for producing safe cars and spends time and money researching real-life accidents in Sweden. The V70, on which this is based, was awarded the maximum five stars for adult occupant protection in official Euro NCAP tests. New features on the 2007 XC70 include optional integrated booster cushions in the rear, which can be set at two heights.

Other Volvo XC70 safety technology includes head restraints better able to reduce the risk of ‘whiplash’ injury in rear impacts, pre-tensioners on all five seatbelts and the use of ultra-high-strength steel in the door beams. Buyers can also choose adaptive cruise control with collision warning and brake support (alerting the driver when approach speeds towards obstacles ahead could lead to a crash), laminated glass all round and Volvo’s ‘Personal Car Communicator’ built into the key fob which alerts the driver when approaching the car if the alarm has been triggered, and if there is someone still inside the car thanks to a heartbeat sensor.

Adaptive cruise control with a collision warning is also optional.

The XC70 is as practical as you’d expect a Volvo to be. The maximum boot capacity of 1,600 litres is not quite as large as an Audi A6 Allroad or a Subaru Outback, but the square shape of the body and the near-vertical tailgate make it useful for carrying boxy items. The boot floor is also fitted with aluminium rails and movable anchor points while the side panels also have anchors and can be supplemented with hooks, nets, dividers to keep luggage secure.

A sliding load floor is available as an accessory which is slotted into the existing rails and can slide out over the rear bumper for more convenient loading. An electric tailgate can also be chosen as an option.