Once known for its infatuation with safety, the Volvo brand has become more anonymous in the modern luxury market. Volvo offers a solid lineup of vehicles that range from the compact C30 hatchback to the XC90 SUV. Volvo's C70 has an exceptional folding hardtop that adds safety and security to the traditional convertible formula.

The C30 has had a long gestation period, as Volvo has shown numerous concepts exploring the idea of a premium compact vehicle. The production C30 is a compact FWD hatchback with seating for four. The C30 is loosely based on the S40 sedan, and shares its 227-hp inline-five cylinder engine. Pricing starts in the low twenties, placing the C30 in competition with the Mini Cooper.

Volvo has restyled the V70 and XC70 wagons for 2007. The new V70 wagon is longer and wider than the model it replaces. Power comes from a 235-bhp inline-six. The all-wheel-drive XC70 variant is taller and longer than the V70.

The S40 and V50 benefit from minor front and rear end styling changes. Horsepower on T5 models increase to 227-bhp.

Volvo has discontinued the 'R' line of performance models for 2008.

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