2009 Volvo XC70, based on the V70 station wagon, is Volvo's midsize sport station wagon. Competition includes Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5-Series Sport Wagon and Ford Taurus X. The body styling of the XC70 had no major changes this year.

The XC70 is supposed to look like an SUV but it's not likely to fool anyone over about seven. Probably the best thing you can say regarding its looks is that it isn't bad for a station wagon. Not its fault, really, there's just no way to make a station wagon look like a sports car - or like anything else but a station wagon. It's certainly not the worst looking car in its class and is probably among the sharper ones.

The XC70 gets good marks for cargo volume and basic warranty and excellent marks for ground clearance. In fact, it is even touted as having some off road capability - just don't try to race it in the Baja 1000. On the other hand, XC70 doesn't quite live up to class expectations in value, fuel economy or powertrain warranty.

XC70 gets shoved down the road by a choice of two engines, depending on the trim line chosen. The 3.2 holds a 235 horsepower 3.2 liter I6. The T6 has a smaller but more powerful 281 horsepower 3.0 liter I6. Either is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. Of course, the XC70 is totally all-wheel drive.

The 3.2 liter engine gets fifteen miles per gallon in city driving and twenty-three miles per gallon on the highway. The 3.0 liter engine gets one mile per gallon less on the highway.

There are no NHTSA stats available for either the 2008 or 2009 model years for either the XC70 or the V70 upon which it is based. Standard safety features include tire pressure monitor, child safety locks, antilock brakes, electronic braking assistance, locking differential, traction/stability control and airbags all around. You can also get electronic parking assistance.

Unfortunately, as with other Volvo models, the features on the XC70 are less than you would expect. Standard inclusions are a trip computer; tilt/telescoping, leather covered steering wheel with mounted controls; CD player; power driver's seat with memory; folding second row seat; automatic headlights; skid plate; and heated, power mirror. As options or trim upgrades you can get rain sensing windshield wipers; power rear hatch; six-disc CD changer; DVD player; navigation system; heated front and rear seats; power passenger seat; wood trim; and a sunroof. You cannot get adjustable foot pedals, hands free cell phone system; premium sound system, a telematic system such as OnStar or power lumbar support.

With a base price of $37,250, the 2009 Volvo XC70 is not nearly the highest priced car in its class. But it doesn't offer nearly as much as those that are. The truth is, the XC70 has several good points, but it's just not that great a value.