Volvo

Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larson were the two men behind Volvo. Gabrielsson had a Bachelor of Science in Economics and was a businessman. He began his career at SKF in Göteborg. In time, he became the head of SKF's subsidiary in France and discovered that it was possible to sell Swedish ball bearings at a lower price than the US suppliers. In 1923 he returned to Sweden to become sales manager for SKF.

Gustaf Larson was an engineer and designer. He had worked as a trainee at White & Poppe in Coventry in England, where he was involved in the design of Morris engines. In 1917 Larson returned to Sweden and took a degree at the University of Technology in Stockholm. He then worked as an engineer at SKF in Göteborg for three years before returning to Stockholm.

In the summer of 1924 Gabrielsson and Larson began seriously to discuss plans for producing cars. They came to a verbal agreement in August and a start had already been made on design work by September. In 1925, Penta (a marine engine manufacturer) received its first order from their newly started car enterprise on Hisingen outside Gothenburg started by Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larson. Volvo was born on April 14th, 1927, when the first car, which was nicknamed "Jakob", left the factory in Göteborg.

Once there was something to be seen, SKF became interested. It then provided guarantees and credit for an initial series of 1,000 vehicles, 500 open and 500 covered. SKF also provided the factory premises and the name, AB Volvo, which had been used in a previous business operation. Volvo is Latin and means "I roll". The Volvo circle-and-arrow trademark was created to represent strength, taking its graphic shape from the traditional alchemist's symbol for iron ore.

Before 1927, before the birth of Volvo Company, car makers built cars by choosing ready-made parts from catalogs and then assembling them into cars. The results were of poor quality. Eventually many of the early car makers ceased to exist. Volvo had a different philosophy: they believed quality cars could only be built from designing components in-house, contracting the designs to be built by manufacturers and finally assembling the parts by experienced car builders. The desire to build quality cars was the driving force behind Volvo. Combined with the name, the Volvo graphic identity is "rolling strength" -- an expression of its approach to building cars.

Volvo Since 1927

In 1927 Volvo ÖV4 introduced by Göteborg industrialist Assar Gabrielsson and engineer Gustaf Larsson was the first Swedish motorcar. They built a factory to challenge the dominance of imported cars in the Swedish market but their four-cylinder engine touring car had a top speed of only 37 miles per hour. Since 1927 Volvo has had a number of significant benchmarks:

Volvo 850 and S70/V70 History

1993 850: 740 replacement arrives with 168-horsepower inline five-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive. Dual airbags and ABS are standard. Automatic transmission has "Economy" and "Sport" shift modes, as well as a winter second-gear start feature. Car meets 1997 side-impact standards, traction control is optional, and sedans have standard integrated child safety seats. Wagon not available.

1994 850: Turbo model debuts with 222-horsepower 2.3-liter five-cylinder engine, and a wagon body style is introduced with standard integrated child seat. Turbo is available in either sedan or wagon format. Warranty is upped to 4 years/50,000 miles.

1995 850: Side airbags are standard on all 850 Turbos this year; optional on other 850s. All models get Turbo's rounded front styling.

1996 850: This year all Volvo 850s are equipped with front seat side-impact airbags, optional traction control (TRACS), and a life insurance policy that pays $250,000 to the estate of any occupant who loses their life in the 850 as the result of an accident.

1997 850: The Turbo is now known as the T-5. GLT models get a new engine that makes 22 more horsepower than last year, and peak torque at a low 1,800 rpm. Base and GLT models meet Transitional Low Emission Vehicle (TLEV) regulations this year.

1998 S70/V70/C70: Designers and engineers have given the 850 model a thorough revamp, adding power, safety, comfort, and a dash of styling pizzazz to an already fine automobile. The cars are renamed: S70 is the sedan, and V70 is the wagon. The redesign includes a new nose, body-color trim, stronger side-impact protection, more powerful turbo engines, redesigned interior, and revised suspension. All-wheel drive wagons arrive to battle luxury SUVs and the hot-selling Subaru Legacy. Volvo performs a slam-dunk with its first new coupe in years; the convertible is somewhat less thrilling. Modeled on the S70 chassis, the C70 shares sheetmetal with the S70 from the windshield forward, and is powered by the same set of turbocharged powerplants.

1999 S70/V70/C70: Volvo's first all-wheel drive sedan debuts, vehicle options and color choices have been simplified. Volvo offers a light pressure turbocharged engine in the coupe to entice consumers looking for a lower-priced ticket.

1999 S80: The larger more luxurious S80 makes its debut. This long overdue redesign of the S90 counts several firsts to its credit: first with a transverse inline six, first with fully integrated GSM phone, first to carry an environmental specification and the S80 boasts the world's smallest manual transmission.

2000 S70/V70/V70XC: Engine improvements, a new transmission, and equipment upgrades constitute the changes for the 2000 Volvos. The V70 AWD and V70 T-5 were discontinued. The V70XC became the only AWD.

2001 S60: The S60 is Volvo's new sedan that takes the place of the discontinued S70 Sedan. Smaller than the S80 but bigger than the S40, Volvo has designed the S60 to be sporty as well as safe. Like the Audi A4 or BMW 3 Series, it should appeal to drivers who are looking for a sedan that is fun to drive.

2001 S80: Volvo added a new trim level, the luxurious S80 T6 Executive. Additional standard content for all trim levels comes in the form of leather seating, a luggage holder, remote retractable rear head restraints, memory position mirrors and Homelink. The 2.9 gets new 16-inch wheels and an auto-dimming rearview mirror as standard. All S80s get dual-stage airbags. The available Security Package for the S80 2.9 and T6 will now include the Interior Air Quality System (IAQS) which keeps the passenger cabin free from odors and pollutants.

2001 V70/V70XC: The 2001 V70 has improved interior space, versatility, comfort and performance. The new V70 shares its platform with the S80, Volvo's top-of-the-line sedan. As a result, the new V70 is slightly shorter than the 2000 model, but it has a longer wheelbase, wider front and rear tracks, and about 2 more inches of width and height. The base 2.4T and all-wheel-drive Cross Country models comes with a 197-horsepower, 2.4-liter, turbocharged five-cylinder engine. The XC T-5 is introduced. New safety features include front-and-rear head airbags, and child-seat ISOFIX attachment points.

2002 S60: The big news is the arrival of the S60 2.4T AWD and its slick electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system. Additionally, all S60 models get Emergency Brake Assistance (EBA), enhanced traction control performance and improved throttle management, resulting in quicker response in everyday driving situations. Volvo's Dynamic Stability Traction Control (DSTC) system is now standard in T5 models and optional for the 2.4T AWD (starting in December 2001). Other model-specific changes include satellite controls on the steering wheel and rear cupholders for the base 2.4 model and a memory function for the power seats and mirrors in 2.4T and T5 models. The entire lineup gets revised rear headrests, ISO-FIX child restraint attachment points and an emergency trunk release handle.

2002 V70/XC: Like the rest of its platform mates (S60 and S80), the V70 and get emergency BrakeAssist, enhanced traction control performance and improved throttle management, resulting in quicker response in everyday driving situations. In addition, a V70 AWD model will be offered -- minus the armor and raised suspension of Volvo's Cross Country. Standard content has been increased, as well: All models get a cargo security cover; the 2.4T gets six-spoke alloy wheels and a leather gearshift knob; and the T5 gets Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), special vinyl/cloth upholstery, leather wrappings on the steering wheel, hand brake and shift knob and aluminum mesh accents. Both the V70 and XZC new features include a DVD-based navigation system, xenon headlamps and an upgraded premium audio system. Cosmos Blue is now an exterior color choice.

2002 S80: As a follow-up to the S80 T6 Executive, Volvo released the T6 Elite, which combined the increased rear legroom, wider rear door openings and interior luxuries of the Executive with the convenience of a rear bench seat, thus providing room for five. Additionally, all S80s got Emergency Brake Assistance (EBA), enhanced traction control performance and improved throttle management, resulting in quicker response in everyday driving situations. Other improvements include color-coordinated exterior trim (rather than the usual black moldings), an emergency release trunk release handle and the availability of a DVD-based navigation system and xenon headlamps.

2003 S60: The new high-performance S60 R became available. Otherwise, minor changes were in store for Volvo's sport sedan for 2003. A leather-wrapped steering wheel, along with a stereo with a CD and a cassette deck, graced the interior of the 2.4 and the 2.4T. The latter also gots foglights and wood dash trim in its standard equipment list. For the all-wheel-drive version, the 2.4 turbocharged engine received a small bump in displacement and horsepower. Rain-sensing wipers and OnCall Plus (the telematics system) were available, and two new colors, Titanium Grey and Ruby Red, brightened the exterior.

2003 V70/XC70: The new high-performance V70R, making 300 horsepower, became available. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and an audio unit with a CD and cassette player graced the interior of the 2.4 and 2.4T. The latter also got real wood trim. For the all-wheel-drive version, the 2.4 turbocharged engine received a small bump in displacement and horsepower. Rain-sensing wipers and OnCall Plus (the telematics system) are available, and two new colors, Titanium Grey and Ruby Red, brighten the exterior. Other new features include a DVD-based navigation system, an upgraded premium audio system, xenon headlamps and deep-tinted windows.

2004 S80: The S80 received a minor refresh this year that includes a modified grille, additional chrome trim and a revised rear fascia for the exterior along with a new gauge cluster and door panels for the interior. Volvo's Four-C adjustable suspension is a new option on all trim levels. An all-wheel-drive version of the 2.5T will be added midyear, but it cannot be ordered in conjunction with the Four-C suspension. Finally, the T6 Premier replaces the T6 Elite as the top trim level.

2005 V50: An all new V50 was introduced in 2005. The V50 offers a host of safety features. A new front structure boasts four different grades of steel, offering maximum protection for the car's occupants. Side impact and side curtain airbags are standard, as is a whiplash-protection seating system. Two trims are available: the 168-horsepower base 2.4i, and the 218-hp T5. T5 models are also available with all-wheel drive.

2006 XC70: The XC70 has a new all-wheel-drive system dubbed Instant Traction(tm).

2007 S80: The S80 receives a redesign. The 5 cilinder engine is replaced with the choice of a 6 or V8.

2007 V70 & XC70: The 2.5T models receive new outside mirrors with integrated turn signals, a tire pressure monitoring system and Dynamic Stability Traction Control.

2007 V50: The 2.4i model receives stability control and a new overhead console, while the front-wheel-drive T5 models now feature a five-speed Geartronic automatic transmission.

2007 S60: Volvo's Dynamic Stability Traction Control (DSTC) becomes standard across the line, as does a tire pressure monitoring system.

2008 V70 & XC70: The V70 & XC70 receive a major redesign. The 5 cilinder engine is replaced with the3.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower. Also new are hill descent control, programmable active suspension, adaptive cruise control, precollision system, blind spot detection, and active headlamps. Two-stage integrated child booster cushions allow the second-row outboard seating positions to be raised appropriately for different height children. The cargo area offers a sliding shelf to ease loading and integrated tie-down anchors that can be positioned along tracks, much like those available in some pickup truck beds.

Volvo XC90 Selected Motor Trend SUV of the Year

More than any other vehicle in the running, the 2003 Volvo XC90 moved the standard in its market segment. This innovative machine drives comfortably like a sedan, tows like a pickup, off-roads like an SUV, and moves bulky cargo or as many as seven people like a minivan. And it does it all with the mechanical polish, premium exterior style, and attention to interior detail associated with top-drawer luxury vehicles. In addition, this Volvo addresses the safety, emissions, and, to a lesser degree, fuel-use issues associated with SUVs.

The transverse inline-engine arrangement and efficient unibody construction make for a compact exterior, a roomy interior, and friendly driving manners. Volvo also claims the engine packaging allows short and direct plumbing between the exhaust manifold and the under-floor catalysts, meaning quicker light-off and lower emissions. Indeed, both engines meet the ULEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) standard. The chassis and steering responses are remarkably carlike on the road. We do, however, have some reservations about the perceived accuracy of the 2.5T's steering, which lacks the T6's ZF speed-sensitive-assist system, but there's no complaining about the generous wheel travel, balanced shock damping, and good cornering precision.

The XC has a brawny stance with its extra-wide track and a long wheelbase with short overhangs front and rear. This layout provides excellent stability on- and off-road and substantive yet sporting appearance despite the XC's extra height. It's a daring, modern design that has strong personality without any penalty from awkward proportions. This new unibody chassis is based on the same architecture and mechanicals as used in the flagship S80, the sporty S60 sedan, and the robust V70 wagon. It delivers the precise feel of a fine road machine along with sufficient toughness for backroad forays, while 60-plus-mph cuts through our 600-ft slalom put the XC in the front row of best-handling SUVs. And such agility doesn't come at the expense of a sweet ride.

The XC has an interior-packaging hat trick with fold-down third-row seating, impressive in a vehicle only 3.5 in. longer than a V70 wagon. Our drivers also like the XC's lofty seating position, which is useful when picking lanes in dense city traffic or carefully placing wheels on rocky trails. The icing is the cabin's minimalist Scandinavian flavor, with excellent fits, soft leathers, bright gauges, and rich nickel trim. "A wonderful synthesis of Volvo luxury, wagon tradition, and sport/utility toughness" is how Senior Editor Ron Sessions sums it up.

Baked deep into this new Volvo is an extensive array of safety measures that go beyond two-stage front-impact airbags, side-impact airbags, and special head restraints. Notably, Volvo employs several strategies to tackle the rollover gremlin associated with high-center-of-gravity sport/utility vehicles. The first defense is an electronic system that senses roll speed and angle. If these exceed predetermined limits, engine power is reduced and braking one or more wheels is initiated to stay ahead of the roll and regain stability. The second level of defense is special high-strength boron steel in the crush-resistant roof. A third strategy is seatbelt pretensioners to keep passengers securely in place. Finally, an inflatable curtain prevents passenger heads from striking the side glass.

We were impressed with the XC's off-road moves. The electronically controlled all-wheel drive, developed with Sweden's four-wheeling experts at Haldex, and the 8.6 (2.5T) to 9.2 (T6) in. of ground clearance provide sure-footedness without the belly scrape and clatter of pretend SUVs on moon-crater roads. In normal driving, about 95 percent of the power flows through the front wheels. But if the fronts begin to slip, in as little as one-seventh of a rotation, power can be diverted to the rear contact patches. The AWD is made up of three main parts: a hydraulic pump actuated by differences in speed between the front and rear axles, a wet multidisc clutch, and a control valve with feedback electronics. When both front and rear axles are rotating at the same speed, no pumping takes place. But if a speed differential occurs, the axles are progressively locked together, smoothly reducing the difference. This all-wheeling setup also interacts with the vehicle's electronic traction and stability control systems to maximize thrust, control, and safety by braking a wheel that tries to spin.

The XC90 delivers sporting muscle, tasteful design, luxury features, wonderful interior execution, and awesome load-carrying and passenger utility for a really good price. The 2.5T variant, particularly, nukes the value mark relative to other premium midsize sport/utility vehicles. Even the more luxurious and pricey T6 model, fully equipped for about $45,000, is a strong value relative to like-equipped competition. "A tremendously well-thought-out vehicle," wrote John Matthius, Motor Trend feature editor and television producer/ host, "and as much SUV as most buyers need."

Competition was fierce again this year. And no model, including the XC, dominated any area of our review. But in this strong and diverse field, the XC ran at the top of the pack throughout the weeks of evaluation, miles of asphalt, and stretches of roadless sand and rock. Having arrived late to the SUV party, Volvo obviously has studied its competitors closely and now offers a winning combination of sporty fun, high style, practical space, and seating flexibility. And for that it deserves to be named Motor Trend's Sport/Utility of the Year.

Best Family Cars

To steer parents toward the perfect family car, Parents magazine teams up with AAA (American Automobile Association) and picks 15 vehicles that combine style, value, and convenience with Moms' and Dads' number-one criterion -- safety.

2007 Volvo V70 -- Station Wagon

Family Attractions:
The comfortable interior is more luxurious and refined than in most SUVs, minivans, and cars. Three rows of seats include an old-fashioned but totally functional rear-facing bench for older kids and adults in the cargo area, and optional built-in booster seats. Safety features include standard side-curtain air bags, a reinforced passenger cabin, and antilock brakes.

Real-life Road Test:
"This is my next car! I thought that in order to get the necessary space for passengers and cargo, SUVs were the way to go. But the V70 wagon has double the trunk space and is more fuel-efficient than our SUV. Caleb, 6, had no problem getting in and out and found the headrests in the backseat perfect for napping."

2006 Volvo V50 -- Station Wagon

Family Frills:
The V50 is a great choice for parents who want to transport the family in a bit more style. The ultra-modern instrument panel belongs in a Swedish design studio. Yet this wagon has substance too: The upholstery is durable and easy to clean. The back has loads of room for strollers and luggage. Front and rear air bags, stability control, antilock brakes, and traction control are standard features. And the V50 is available with built-in booster seats, a huge convenience if you have a preschooler or if you carpool frequently.

Real-Life Road Test:
"This car had lots of pep and handled well. Two toddlers fit comfortably in back. The cargo space is too small if you're packing for a vacation, but it's fine for sports gear or groceries."

Safety Rating NHSTA:
NHTSA: Not tested. IIHS: The structurally similar Volvo S40 earned a Good rating..

2006 Volvo S80 : Picked AAA Top Car Under $40K

The Volvo S80 was rated by the American Automobile Association as the 2006 Top Car under $40,000 for 2006: AAA 2006 Top Cars

A simplified model and engine lineup has done nothing to diminish the appeal of Volvo's flagship sedan. Within this price range, the S80 is noticeably roomier than many of its competitors. Its 5-cylinder engine delivers more power and greater fuel economy than the 6-cylinder engine it replaces, though it gives up some of that older motor's refinement. Inside, the interior coddles passengers. Seats, front and rear, are exceptionally comfortable and the list of standard safety features is nearly all-encompassing. All-wheel drive is an attractive and affordable option.

2005 Volvo XC90 -- SUV

Family Attractions:
With side-impact and side-curtain air bags, a rollover prevention system, and whiplash-protection seating all standard, the XC90 is one of the safest SUVs on the road. The middle seat in the second row slides forward so you can retrieve your baby's Binky more easily. Carpoolers can opt for the third-row add-on-and increase seating from five to seven. Luxury features include 12 cup holders, grocery-bag hooks, and three power outlets for your electronic essentials.

Real-Life Road Test:
"The seats are so plush that my wife, who was seven months pregnant, stayed comfortable on a three-hour drive, and the optional built-in booster for our 6-year-old saved us extra schlepping."

Safety Rating NHSTA:
9 out of 10 frontal; 10 out of 10 side; 4 out of 5 rollover. IIHS: Good; also listed as a Best Pick.

2004 Volvo V70 -- Station Wagon

2003 Volvo V70 -- Station Wagon

Family Attractions:
Supremely comfortable interior; lots of room to haul kids and gear; standard side-curtain air bags. Stash diapers, wipes, and emergency equipment in the spacious center console or in storage nooks in the doors. Optional all-wheel drive.

Road Test:
Despite lots of room inside, this wagon feels as nimble as a sprightly little hatchback. Handling is stable but sporty. A simplified dashboard minimizes distraction while driving.

2003 Volvo XC90 -- SUV

Family Attractions:
Optional seating for seven (third row seats two) and 17 cup holders. Built-in booster seats available. Center section of the middle seat slides 12 inches forward to give you easy access to a rear-facing infant. Middle and third rows split and fold completely flat, for times when you need to cart home cases of diapers. Standard side-curtain air bags extend all the way to third row.

Road Test:
Handles curves and corners so smoothly, you'll forget you're in an SUV. Innovative anti-rollover technology senses when the car is tipping and manipulates the brakes and engine power to help regain control. Highway ride is stable and quiet, making it easy to talk to kids all the way in the back.

2002 V70 Station Wagon

The nuts and bolts
Five-speed transmission; optional all-wheel drive (AWD). Memory settings for driver's seat and outside mirrors, plus a tilting/telescoping steering wheel. Standard warranty of four years or 50,000 miles; 24-hour roadside assistance for four years, with no mileage limit. Climate-control system features separate zones for the driver and passengers.

What's great for families
Volvo and safety go hand in hand: The V70 comes equipped with smart front air bags, side and side-curtain air bags, and antilock brakes. Both front and rear seats feature headrests, separate reading lamps, and air vents. Seats are designed to prevent passengers from sliding out from under their seat belts. Optional built-in boosters for older kids and a pop-up, rear-facing third row of seats. The large rear compartment can expand to more than 71 cubic feet. The steering wheel has audio controls.

Customer Satisfaction among Volvo Models

-Percentage of Owners That Would Buy That Car Again-

Owner-satisfaction Ratings are determined by the percentage of those who answered "definitely yes" to the following survey question: "Considering all factors (price, performance, reliability, comfort, enjoyment, etc.), would you get this car if you had to do it all over again?" based on cars on the road in 2007.

2001 Volvo V70 Cross Country: Best Car Under $40K

"To your body, it's a European luxury car. To the elements, it's an SUV. To your peace of mind, it's a Volvo." To that, we'd say, "Well put." - Edmunds.com

The Volvo Cross Country was rated by the American Automobile Association as the best car under $40,000 for 2001 in its publication, AAA New Car &

Truck Buying Guide: Year 2001 Model Reviews. http://www.aaa.com/news12/Releases/Auto/carguide/cgrelease.htm It goes on to say:

2001 Volvo Cross-Country (167 points) In designing the V70 Cross-Country, Volvo created a crazy hybrid: an allwheel-drive wagon more stable than an SUV but just as capable off-road. Our test-drives took this car on mountain logging trails where only trucks would dare to tread. Crazy? With its ready-for-anything performance and full complement of safety features, the Volvo Cross-Country is anything but. It scored higher than all SUV's.

Standard Equipment: 2.4-liter I-5 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, all-wheel drive, traction control, inflatable side curtain, electronic climate control, power windows, seats, locks and mirrors, keyless entry, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, security system, leather seats, split rear seatback, AM/FM radio.

The 2001 Volvo Cross Country is a completely new wagon. Unlike the first version introduced in 1997, the new XC is now built on the same platform as the highly regarded S80. All XCs come with a 2.4-liter, high-pressure turbo engine coupled to a 5-speed automatic gearbox with Geartronic shifting, a feature that allows the driver to select gears manually. The standard all-wheel-drive system is a carry-over from previous models - one that normally operates with 95 percent of power to the front wheels, but when necessary can transfer all power through a viscous coupling to whichever set of wheels needs traction. The all-wheel-drive system is supplemented with a sophisticated traction-control system called TRACS. For example, if the right-hand wheels slip on a patch of ice, these wheels will be braked and the wagon will be powered by the left-hand wheels.

The XC is very well equipped with safety features - it comes with everything on the AAA Safety Checklist. Inside, nothing has been left to chance. Conformable leather seats support driver and passengers. Instruments are Volvo-like easy to decipher. Controls seem unnecessarily complicated at first, but not so bad once you get used to them. A cleverly designed three-part rear seat with a split enables the backrest on the center seat to be folded down separately to make room for long items or a cooler. The best part is that the center seat still has a full shoulder and lap belt - something no other manufacturer has accomplished.

On the road, the XC is an extraordinary piece of work. Considering its relatively high stance, handling on winding roads is a pleasant experience. Acceleration and braking are more than adequate, but the XC'S most remarkable attribute is its off-road capability. The AAA test drive was over 200 miles of good highway winding country roads and logging trails. They "drove trails where no one in their right mind would drive a $35,000 vehicle. The Volvo XC made it where only Jeeps and Land Rovers have previously gone. And it did so in comfort and style - something most SUVs can't do." Even with all of the capability and flexibility, the Volvo XC is a remarkably comfortable and stylish vehicle. Those who lust for an SUV should take a serious look at this wonderfully capable "car."

Unlike evaluators for other car guides, Editor Dave Van Sickle and his team of automotive experts test drove each vehicle listed in the book to see how it handled in real-world situations, on streets and highways, with passengers and cargo. Their evaluations are clear and informative. The four-color guide has easy-to-read rating boxes, safety checklists, car buying tips, accurate and reliable pricing information, and vehicle pros and cons. Priced at $14.95, it is available at most AAA offices, major bookstores, and amazon.com.

1996

In 1996, Consumer Report rated the Volvo 850 Turbo the best Medium Size Car Over $25,000, beating the TOYOTA AVALON XLS, BMW 3-SERIES, MAZDA MILLENIA S, LEXUS ES300, SAAB 9000 CSE TURBO, INFINITI I30, Audi A4, INFINITI J30, ACURA 2.5TL, Mercedes-Benz C280, Saab 900 SE, Mitsubishi Diamante, and Oldsmobile Aurora.

1994

In addition the Highway Loss Data Institute (U.S.) selected the Volvo 850, best midsize 4-door car in 1994.

Best Used Volvos

European Delivery

We have had '67, '68, '71, '74, '79, '81, '87, '93, '95 and '01 Volvos. My wife and I love driving Volvos. Since we travel quite a bit, we bought the '67, '74, '79, '87, '95 and '01 in Europe through the European Delivery plan of Volvo. To do this, you go to your local Volvo dealer and make all arrangements through him. You save about 10%.

The dealer doesn't make as much on this deal, basically just payment for the paperwork since he has no inventory, investment, etc. Use a dealer that is experienced. There is a lot of paperwork since your insurance, title, delivery, home shipment and payment are all done in advance. It is best to start 4 or 5 months ahead to get what you want when you want. Don't try to rush it. To save money, work it out so you can pick the car up where there is free delivery and drop it off where there is free dropoff. Volvo pays the duty when you ship it home. We then pay sales tax on the used car value.

We just bought a new Volvo through European Delivery for the 6th time. We can get exactly what we want since Volvo has certain options they add to all cars they ship to dealers in US, but don't require for European Delivery. We saved $3,000 on the car, plus we didn't have to pay for options we didn't want which saved us over $1,000 more. In addition they gave us a free roundtrip airfare (for 1) and free hotel room. We bought the V70XC but got it without the sunroof which is mandatory on all dealer shipments. I would rather have the additional headroom rather than the sunroof. We also didn't get leather seats. They are hotter in the summer and colder in the winter than the cloth seats and don't hold up as well and cost more. The seat heaters and the headlight washers (wipers) are well worth the small extra they cost.

Resale Value

We have kept each Volvo at least 120,000 miles and then sold it privately for at least 1/3 of what we paid for it by advertising one day in the Reading, PA, newspaper and then selling to the first person that came to look at it. All except one (an 1800E) were 122/240/850/V70 series wagons which added to the ease with which we were able to sell them. (The 1800E sold for more than we paid for it.) We drive the 850/V70 series wagons at least 180,000 miles before we sell them and they still keep their value.

My Volvo 850 Experience

We had a '93 850 sedan and have a '95 850 wagon. I drove my '93 Volvo 850 sedan 185,000 miles over mountain roads, Interstate highways, and city driving. It averaged over 25 MPG and got 29 MPG highway. I had four problems: 1) the radio antenna had a poor connection when new and had to be replaced, 2) the gas struts that hold the trunk lid open got weak at 80,000 miles and had to be replaced, 3) the throttle linkage would stick if not cleaned until a Volvo tech found an adjustment* that was out of tolerance and 4) at 145,000 miles the automatic transmission had to be replaced. The automatic transmission is a weak point of the '93 850, but 145,000 miles is not too bad. The original Michelin tires were a high performance tire and only got 25,000 miles. I have a high mileage Michelin tires now and they get over 40,000 miles to a set. It drives extremely well in all environments. The engine and automatic transmission work extremely well together with very smooth shifts. The standard climate control system is very effective in the heat of the day, on cold nights, during rain storms and in the "blizzard of '93" and the "blizzard of '96".

When the TRACS system is used with the automatic transmissions WINTER position, it is virutally impossible to have any problem accelerating on ice and snow. The front wheel drive makes steering easier on ice and snow, and anti-lock brakes make stopping easier. The handling is very precise with no sluggishness or oversteer. It gives a great sense of confidence. I usually have the trunk full and it does not cause any problems. The headlights are the best I have used. They are bright on low beam up to a well defined line. On high beams they light up the full roadway and sides very well. I drive in deer country and appreciate this extra visibility at night. The seats are very comfortable and very adjustable. Also, the center console does not crowd the drivers leg like older Volvos (240's). The cruise control works very well with the engine and transmission. I especially like the ECONOMY position since it does not shift back and forth going up hills; it does not over- or under-compensate going up hills; and it does not overshoot at the top of a hill. The increase speed and decrease speed function controls to any speed you want. The speedometer reads about 2% high and the odometer seems to be about right on. My 850 is a special order GLT with TRACS, no turbo, no leather and no sun roof. TRACS is an extension of the antilock brakes that applies slight braking to a spinning wheel at speeds below 25 MPH to prevent getting stuck in ice and snow. When used with the automatic transmission's WINTER position, it worked extremely well in all the ice and snow we had the past 9 winters and even works in reverse.

I have driven 10 Volvos over a period of 30 years and 1,200,000 miles and only had one (1974 245DL) that required any major work, but since the 850 was a new model, I covered myself by getting the 100,000 mile/6 year extended warranty which covered (almost) everything. The extended warranty covered the struts for the trunk.

My wife now has 141,000 miles on her '95 850 wagon and is equally delighted. She has had two problems. The car had a very slow oil seal leak which Volvo fixed under warranty. At 110,00 miles the pnp switch on the transmission was causing the check engine light to come on and was replaced.

I feel that the 850 is a bargain for a vehicle with antilock brakes, 4 air bags, side impact protection, a strong history of engineering for durability, low injury rates and low death rates, good gas mileage, good handling, efficient use of space, good comfort, good accommodation to different people, and a design which gives the driver a feeling of safety, strength and confidence.

After 9 years and 185,000 miles we sold the '93 850 for $5,000. It sold to the second family that looked at it. Immediately after it sold, the first family that looked at it called to say they wanted it, but it was too late. We now are thoroughly enjoying our V70 XC which has 101,000 miles. It hasn't had any problems. The AWD and extra clearance are great. We still have the '95 850 also. There is a difference in the headlight design between the two. The high beams on the 850 are best, but the low beams on the XC are best.

* Volvo 850 Throttle Sticking Solution

My throttle would stick in the off position. It became especially scary when I was in cruise. If while in cruise I went down a hill the throttle would go to the off position and stick. Then after I went to the bottom of the hill, the cruise control would try to advance the throttle to keep the speed at the set point and it couldn't. The car would slow down. Then when it slowed down enough, the cruise would suddenly apply enough force to pop the throttle free and it would suddenly accelerate up to the set speed. It was an unsettling experience.

They adjusted the throttle stop position so it wouldn't go back far enough to stick. Previously they would clean the throttle housing and that would work for about 5,000 miles and then it would stick again. It happened on both the '93 854 and the '95 855.

There is a small screw that acts as a mechanical idle adjust. If it is adjusted too far back, the throttle mechanism can go back so far it comes close to the body of the throttle and when the body is dirty it sticks. By adjusting the mechanical idle adjust so it won't come so near the body, they can keep it from sticking. There is an air flow adjustment to adjust the actual idle speed so that if setting up the mechanical idle adjust increases the idle speed, the air flow adjustment can be used to bring it back.

Links to Volvo Web Pages

Volvo Safety

Volvo Safety Firsts

Top Safety Picks 2008

Institute Institute for Highway Safety Selects XC90 as one of the Safest SUVs (2007)

The Institute rates vehicles good, acceptable, marginal, or poor based on performance in high-speed front and side crash tests plus evaluations of seat/head restraints for protection against neck injuries in rear impacts. The first requirement for a vehicle to become a Top Safety Pick is to earn good ratings in all three Institute tests. A new requirement for 2007 is that the winning vehicles must offer electronic stability control. This addition is based on Institute research indicating that ESC significantly reduces crash risk, especially the risk of fatal single vehicle crashes, by helping drivers maintain control of their vehicles during emergency maneuvers. The XC90 has electronic stability control standard.

Insure.com selects Volvo S80 as one of the 5 safest cars (2001)

To make the list, cars must include side air bags, which are designed to protect the driver and the front seat passenger. IIHS and NHTSA data show conclusively that the protection offered by side air bags can save lives and prevent injuries, so only models that include side air bags as standard equipment or offer them as options were considered for the title of "safest cars of all time."

Vehicles must have scored five stars on NHTSA frontal crash tests. That means a 10 percent chance (at most) of being seriously injured. Each vehicle must also have earned at least four stars on NHTSA side crash tests. (Four stars means an occupant would have a 6 to 10 percent chance of suffering a serious injury; five stars signals a 5 percent chance of injury.)

Only the best rated cars based on IIHS crash testing qualified, so we selected only those that garnered a "Best Pick" rating given to cars that rate the highest in their category. IIHS granted its "Best Pick" status to the 2000 Buick LaSabre, 2001-2002 Honda Civic, 2001-2002 Lincoln LS, 2000-2002 Passat, and 2001-2002 Volvo S80. The list only selected cars from 2000 and newer. The 1996-1997 Volvo 850 qualified for this list also as did the 1998-1999 Volvo V70. The newer Volvo S40 and S60 have not been tested. The V70 is based on the S80 and should have similar results.

Safest Luxury Car (April 2001)

Consumer Reports rated the Volvo S80 as the safest Luxury car. It had excellent crash results, secure handling, and strong brakes.

Insurance Rates (April 2000)

Liberty Mutual pitches its coverage to Volvo drivers. It's "affinity programs" is part of a trend that teams insurers with groups in search of added sales. People with an attractive insurance profile are the typical targets. Volvo drivers are perceived to be safety-conscious.

Side Impact Protection (July 1999)

July 23, 1999 (Reuters) - U.S. highway safety regulators said on Friday that the 1999 Volvo S80 four-door car is the first passenger car to achieve the highest possible rating for side impact crash tests.

The S80, made by Ford's Volvo car unit, received a five star rating for side crash tests for both the front seat and the back seat, the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said.

``This result shows how innovative design can meet the challenge of providing a high level of side impact protection in passenger cars, NHTSA Administrator Ricardo Martinez said in a statement.

The safety systems of the 1999 Volvo S80 will remain unchanged in model year 2000, the the highway safety group said.

The agency said the test used simulates a typical intersection collision between two cars and the impact is measured on two crash test dummies.

Car Fatality Rates (September 2000)

The average death rate in all passenger vehicles during 1995-98 is 89 per million registered vehicle years, but the rate for some models is two or three times as high. The lowest death rate was reported in the Toyota Camry and the Volvo 850.

Driver death rates in all crashes plus death rates in multiple-vehicle, single-vehicle, and single-vehicle rollover crashes are computed for 156 passenger vehicle models with at least 120,000 registered vehicle years or 20 driver deaths during calendar years 1995-98.

The death rates for each model represent the reported number of driver deaths divided by the model's number of registered vehicle years. Death rates also are computed by weight class within body style groups. Data are from the federal government's Fatality Analysis Reporting System and registration counts from The Polk Company and were reported by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute.

This table displays driver death rates per million registered vehicle years (2 vehicles registered for 12 months each yield 2 vehicle years) in 1994-97 models during calendar years 1995-98.

Frontal Offset Crash Testing (March 2000)

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety uses as the principal component of each vehicle's crashworthiness evaluation the 40 mph frontal offset crash test, which is a good test of a vehicle's structural design.

National Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rates the following as the safest in alphabetical order:

'95-'00 Volvo 850/S70 Overall Evaluation: Best Pick. Performance in the frontal offset crash test was good. There was moderate intrusion, but all injury measures were low. A number of crashworthiness features beat the competition. For example, the head restraints are better than those from other automakers, and they're provided in rear seats, which isn't the case in most other midsize 4-door cars. This is also the first car in the world with side-impact airbags. An optional integrated child restraint is available -- a plus for families. The bumpers are the only feature that falls much behind some competitors, but this car still earns a "best pick" evaluation

Side Impact Air Bags

Combined with a safety belt, the air bag is one of the most effective safety features. Next after head-on crashes, side impacts kill the most people, about 9,000 per year, and a few automakers now offer side air bags. The 1995 Volvo 850 was first to have them, and Mercedes-Benz and BMW were offering them in some new models.

Antilock Brakes

An antilock brake system (ABS) uses a computer to prevent the wheels from locking up and skidding in a hard stop. By pulsing the brakes many times per second, ABS lets you stop shorter on slippery roads and steer while braking. New-car buyers should pass up any model not equipped with this vital safety feature. ABS significantly reduces frontal collisions on wet roads, and it cut down on fatalities to pedestrians and bicyclists. ABS is clearly superior in controlled tests. Consumer Reports has tested well over 100 ABS-equipped cars on CR's test track to date. In 1995 tire tests on wet pavement, the test car stopped from 60 mph about 70 feet shorter, on average, with the ABS working than with the ABS disabled. The overall accident rate for ABS-equipped cars was about 10% lower, and on slippery roads it was almost 20% lower, with commensurate reductions in injuries. [return to Volvo Safety Index]

Car Insurance Injury Loss (September 2006)

The following table summarizes the recent insurance injury losses of four-door passenger cars reported by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute. Results are based on the loss experience of 2003-05 models. For vehicles that were newly introduced or redesigned during these three model years, the results are based on the most recent years for which the vehicle designs were unchanged -- either 2003-04 or 2005 only, as appropriate.

All losses are stated in relative terms, with 100 representing the average result for all vehicles in each loss category. So a result of 122 is 22 percent worse than average. A result of 96 is 4 percent better than average. Vehicles are listed in ascending sequence of injury claim frequency results. Differences among the best and worst are striking. Among midsize four-door cars, for example, the Volkswagen Passat 4WD has the best injury result. Below are listed those modes which were at least10% better than average.

	Injury	Collision	Theft
ALL VERY LARGE CARS	69	81	100
Mercury Grand Marquis	69	81	115
Ford Crown Victoria	71	80	58

	Injury	Collision	Theft
ALL LARGE LUXURY CARS	91	83	87
Audi Allroad Quattro wagon 4WD	45	106
Buick Park Avenue 4dr	49	64	8
Jaguar XJ series 4dr	51	212
Lexus LS 430 4dr	52	122	94
Volvo V70 station wagon	58	94	27
Cadillac DeVille 4dr	61	92	55
Mercedes E class 4dr 4WD	62	127
Volvo V70 station wagon 4WD	62	90	22
Acura 3.5 RL 4dr 4WD	66	124
Jaguar S-type 4dr	73	137	117
Cadillac STS 4dr 2WD/4WD	74	116
Mercedes E class 4dr	76	131	77
Volvo S80 4dr	76	105	51
Lexus GS series 4dr	79	108	243
Lincoln LS 4dr	79	102	165
BMW 5 series 4dr	84	154	149
Cadillac CTS 4dr	98	144	74

	Injury	Collision	Theft
ALL MIDSIZE LUXURY CARS	122	105	84
Saab 9-5 4dr	58	106	23
Saab 9-3 4dr	69	106	11
Infiniti G35 4dr 4WD	72	131
BMW 3 series convertible	72	97	79
BMW 3 series 4dr 4WD	75	98	31
Saab 9-3 convertible	77	102
Acura TL series 4dr	77	105	87
Lexus ES series 4dr	80	100	44
Mercedes CLK class 2dr	80	160	103
Mercedes CLK class convertible	81	130
Infiniti G35 2dr	86	165	178
Volvo S40	87	132
Infiniti G35 4dr	88	123	91
Volvo S60 4dr	88	120	46
Mercedes C class 4dr 4WD	90	112	25
BMW 3 series 2dr	91	163	111
Volvo S60 4dr 4WD	91	123
BMW M3 2dr	95	291
BMW 3 series 4dr	99	120	53
Jaguar X-Type 4dr 4WD	104	154	45
Mercedes C class 2dr	108	130	48
Mercedes C class 4dr	114	128	75
Lexus IS 300 4dr	123	214	156

	Injury	Collision	Theft
ALL MIDSIZE LUXURY SUVS	70	88	95
Volvo XC90 4dr	55	67	33
Buick Rainier 4dr	58	85
Lexus GX 470 4dr	59	84	69
Lexus RX 330 4dr	64	89	175
Lincoln Aviator 4dr	74	101	88
Acura MDX 4dr	74	75	54
BMW X5 4dr	76	106	172
Infiniti FX series 4dr	77	108	99
Mercedes M class 4dr	88	90	69

Frequency of Repair Survey

850 / V70 / XC70 Reliability history

++ = much above average; + = above average; OK = average; - = below average; --- = much below average; * = based on preliminary data.

Model	Satisfaction
Highest: Toyota Camry*	82%
Volvo XC70	75%
Volvo V70 gas	71%
Volvo S80 5-cyl.	69%
Volvo XC90 V8	68%
Volvo V70 gas turbo	66%
Volvo S40 gas turbo	66%
Volvo XC90 5-cyl. gas turbo	61%
Volvo S60 fwd	60%
Volvo S40 gas fwd	60%
Volvo V50	59%
Volvo S60 awd	58%
Lowest: Chevrolet Malibu*	47%

FOUR-DOOR CARS: VERY LARGE	Model years	DRIVER DEATH RATES
FOUR-DOOR CARS: VERY LARGE	Model years	All crashes	Multiple	Single	Roll
Mercury Grand Marquis	1994-97	76 (59-96)	52	24	7
Ford Crown Victoria	1994-97	77 (59-98)	57	20	12

FOUR-DOOR CARS: MIDSIZE	Model years	DRIVER DEATH RATES
FOUR-DOOR CARS: MIDSIZE	Model years	All crashes	Multiple	Single	Roll
Toyota Camry	1997	37 (19-63)	25	11	8
Volvo 850	1995-97	39 (18-74)	26	13	4
Nissan Maxima	1995-97	49 (35-66)	24	25	13
Mazda 626	1994-97	59 (44-78)	31	29	15
Honda Accord	1994-97	62 (53-71)	34	28	12
Chrysler Cirrus	1995-97	66 (40-103)	52	14	3
Buick Regal	1994-97	70 (52-93)	40	30	13
Nissan Altima	1994-97	78 (64-94)	45	33	17
Toyota Avalon	1995-97	80 (54-114)	53	27	8
Mazda Millenia	1995-97	82 (45-138)	29	53	6
Oldsmobile Achieva	1994-97	85 (56-124)	41	44	22
Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme	1994-97	89 (67-116)	36	52	26
Dodge Stratus/Plymouth Breeze	1995-97	91 (68-119)	51	40	10
Mitsubishi Galant	1994-97	105 (81-135)	52	54	28
Ford Contour	1995-97	112 (91-136)	65	47	25
Mercury Mystique	1995-97	115 (81-159)	64	51	16
Pontiac Grand Am	1994-97	120 (102-140)	53	67	43
Buick Skylark	1994-97	124 (93-163)	84	40	19
Chevrolet Cavalier	1995-97	153 (122-190)	66	87	46
Hyundai Sonata	1995-97	170 (106-257)	54	116	54
Pontiac Sunfire	1995-97	206 (136-300)	130	76	38

FOUR-DOOR CARS: SMALL	Model years	DRIVER DEATH RATES
FOUR-DOOR CARS: SMALL	Model years	All crashes	Multiple	Single	Roll
Volkswagen Golf III	1994-97	47 (17-102)	31	16	16
Honda Civic	1996-97	47 (28-74)	29	18	5
Acura Integra	1994-97	67 (35-117)	33	33	6
Volkswagen Jetta III	1994-97	71 (52-95)	23	48	24
Saturn SL	1994-97	73 (62-86)	51	23	13
Mazda Protege	1995-97	76 (51-110)	42	34	13
Toyota Corolla	1994-97	86 (73-100)	57	29	16
Ford Escort	1997	95 (60-142)	62	33	21
Nissan Sentra	1995-97	100 (77-128)	58	42	14
Geo Prizm	1994-97	125 (103-150)	75	50	23
Dodge Neon/Plymouth Neon	1995-97	129 (111-150)	75	54	30
Kia Sephia	1995-97	148 (93-224)	101	47	27

FOUR-DOOR CARS: MINI	Model years	DRIVER DEATH RATES
FOUR-DOOR CARS: MINI	Model years	All crashes	Multiple	Single	Roll
Hyundai Accent	1995-97	152 (94-233)	72	80	36
Ford Aspire	1994-97	210 (139-303)	142	67	22
Geo Metro	1995-97	212 (151-290)	152	60	44

FOUR-DOOR CARS: LARGE	Model years	DRIVER DEATH RATES
FOUR-DOOR CARS: LARGE	Model years	All crashes	Multiple	Single	Roll
Pontiac Bonneville	1994-97	44 (30-61)	29	14	6
Dodge Intrepid	1994-97	58 (46-73)	30	28	10
Eagle Vision	1994-97	58 (29-105)	27	32	11
Chrysler Concorde	1994-97	75 (54-101)	43	32	9
Pontiac Grand Prix	1994-97	76 (57-99)	43	32	17
Buick LeSabre	1994-97	80 (66-97)	62	18	9
Mercury Sable	1996-97	80 (51-119)	47	33	17
Ford Taurus	1996-97	81 (65-101)	51	30	14
Chevrolet Lumina	1995-97	90 (75-108)	44	46	28
Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight	1994-97	98 (76-126)	65	33	17

1998 - 2008 V70/V70XC RELIABILITY	'98	'99	'00	'01	'02	'03	'04	'05	'06	'07	'08
Engine Major	+	-	+	OK	++	++	++	++	++	++
Engine Cooling	OK	--	-	OK	+	++	+	+	+	++
Transmission Major	++	-	OK	--	OK	+	++	++	++	++
Transmission Minor	+	-	-	--	-	--	OK	++	++	++
Drive System	--	--	--	--	OK	-	OK	++	++	++
Fuel System	--	--	--	-	+	+	+	+	+	++
Engine Minor	--	-	--	-	-	OK	OK	+	+	++
Electrical System	+	-	-	OK	OK	++	++	++	++	++
Overall Reliability	-	--	--	-	OK	+	+	+	+	++