2007 Volvo C70

The step-up audio option (Dynaudio package, $1,550) offers an ear bending 910 watts; however, the standard sound system (four channels, eight speakers, 160 watts) has fine sound, with enough juice to be heard top down at highway speeds. The in-dash, six-disc CD player has been upgraded for 2007; it now has MP3 playback capability and is fitted with an auxiliary audio input jack. Active Sound Control helps the volume keep pace with outside noise levels, and redundant controls on the steering wheel make it easy to keep track of your channels without losing sight of the road. The C70 is billed as a four seater, however, the rear row is plus-2 sized and if the front passengers are at all tall, there's little room left behind.

Power

One engine and a choice between two transmissions are offered. The motor is Volvo's turbocharged five-cylinder. The light pressure turbo powerplant is rated at 218 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm, and 236 lb. ft. of torque @ 1,500 rpm. The T5 is combined with a standard six-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic with Auto-stick function. The engine's soundtrack is a bit misleading: The five-cylinder's characteristic "thrum" sounds like it's exerting itself more than it really is.


In fact, the turbo five is reasonably snappy off the line (thanks to the low torque peak) and has ample power for all normal driving situations. It also works well with the automatic transmission, though the lag between call and response times limits the fun factor of the AutoStick mode. The C70 cruises effortlessly at highway speed. Our test drive mileage (22 mpg) was at the low end of EPA's expectations (21 city/29 highway). The front-wheel-drive C70 is fitted with a MacPherson strut front and independent, multilink rear suspension. Handling is sporting and stable in the manner of a good GT touring car, and ride quality is worthy of your longest road trip. Neither cowl shake nor wind buffeting rise above modest levels.


The C70 is a nice addition to the Volvo lineup. Its understated sportiness fits right in with the company's personality. And the flexibility of the retractable hardtop design puts them right in the middle of what is suddenly the hottest trend in convertibles. (www.volvocars.us)