The 2008 Volvo C70 is a four-passenger coupe/convertible with a 2.5 liter, turbo-charged, inline-five under the hood producing 227 horsepower with a six-speed manual transmission (front wheel drive.) A five-speed automatic transmission is optional. The opening MSRP for the C70 is $39,240. Expected fuel economy is 27 mpg out on the road and 18 in town.

Unlike previous generations, the 2008 C70 uses a retractable hardtop making this a convertible suitable for all seasons of the year. The top can be stowed away with the push of a button in approximately 30 seconds and thanks to a stacking system, no space is wasted in the trunk when the top is down.

Traditionally Volvos have been known for their squarish appearance, but the C70 is a study in elegant, rounded corners. The standard wheels are seven-inch aluminum but an upgrade will get drivers brightly finished alloy at eighteen-inches.

Although the standard interior upholstery for the ergonomically formed front seats is vinyl, leather is on the option list as well as a premium Sovereign Hide for a more supple feel. Trim of laminated oak covers the doors and center console rather than the cold metallic of previous model years. The driver's seat is powered as a standard feature with the passenger side optional. For hauling long items, the designers provided a pass-though between the back seats.

There's a six-CD changer in the dash and the audio unit includes input for an MP3 player. Look for controls mounted on the steering wheel and twelve speakers, five amplifiers, and two sub-woofers for impressive surround sound. Both a navigation system and Sirius Satellite Radio are optional.

Equipped with an impressive array of safety systems, the 2008 Volvo C70 may well be one of the most stable convertibles on the market. Both front and side airbags are present as well as bags in the curtain position that deploy from the doors. The anti-lock brakes feature force distribution and both electronic stability and traction control are present. For protection from vehicle rollover, a pop-up rollbar is deployed. If the roof is in place, deployment occurs with sufficient force to put the bar in its active position. Later in the year a Blind Spot Information System will become available that activates warning lights in the side mirrors.