Faults:

Well, the big issue is the transmission, which has jerked me around (literally) for about 5,000 miles. It was then that the dealer told me I'd need a new tranny (!) after spending $500 to replace the transmission fluid. Otherwise it always seems to need something -- never have I taken it in for an inspection and emerged unharmed. Plus the parts are ridiculously expensive and insurance is too.

General Comments:

Rides nice and it's really safe.

Faults:

The car has been in the shop seven times over the past 18 months. That's an average of over 1 service visit every three months. The rear passenger side power lock motor burned out at 10,000 miles and the power lock system has malfunctioned on three occasions. I had the power locks repaired last week and they have now broken again for the fourth time. The power steering pump was replaced after approximately 7,000 miles and the brake pedal position sensor has been replaced twice.

General Comments:

I asked Volvo "Customer Care" to repurchase the vehicle from me, but they refuse to do anything.

When the car is functioning, it drives great. Unfortunately, those occasions are few and far between.

I would never recommend a Volvo to anyone, nor would I ever purchase one again.

Faults:

Nothing has gone wrong with this car.

General Comments:

I traded in my '89 240 for a new V70 base model. This car has the most comfortable car seats I've ever parked my butt on. The suspension keeps car poised at all times, and the brakes stop shorter than any other car on the road.

I've read where others are less than thrilled with their V70's, but I think Volvo has addressed most of the problems with this car.

I intentionally bought the base model to avoid the turbo upgrade to the engine, so mine is a front wheel drive only. I think this is the way to go with this car. I drove it through some really bad weather this winter with no problems, and acceleration is OK, but not like a turbo kick in the pants.

Despite its small outside dimensions, this car hauls a ton of stuff.

My only quibble is with the automatic. The logic function seems too fuzzy, and shifts are not predictable. It really hunts on hills. I may be too picky, my 240 had the indestructible 5 speed manual.