Faults:

There are some minor electrical gremlins. Light bulbs burn out with greater frequency than usual; the emission systems warning light comes on occasionally and inexplicably.

General Comments:

Acceleration, even in the non-turbo engine, is good with a manual transmission.

The manual transmission and clutch action is not the crispest, but it is very smooth.

Handling is secure and solid, but not quite sporty. Although the car is geared towards comfort rather than performance, it is rock-steady even in emergency handling.

The brakes have incredible bite. Despite the weight of the car, it can stop on a dime without losing control.

You want sporty thrills? This car isn't for you. Control and safety is what this car is all about. It gives a feeling of impermeability even driving in snow or rain, goes where you steer precisely and without fuss, accelerates well, and handles securely in both daily use and in emergencies.

The seats are without a doubt the most comfortable of any vehicle I've ever driven. The cabin is roomy, airy and welcoming. Trim and plastics look and feel high-quality, as does assembly and fit of the interior.

Reliability, particularly of electrical components, remains questionable. While dealer service in North America tends to be responsive, it is also more expensive than average, and waits for parts/appointments can be frustrating.

Faults:

The turn-signal/emergency flasher control failed.

The crash sensor for airbag deployment failed.

The steering column ring antenna (for the encrypted ignition key) started to fail.

A relay for the electric right-rear passenger window failed.

General Comments:

This car has lots of power and gets excellent gas mileage.

The seats are very comfortable and the various instrument controls are well placed.

The electronic climate control system works very well.

I have experienced a few problems, all related to electrical issues, but they have all been fixed under warranty.

Faults:

Electrical problems, this car eats light bulbs for lunch.

Suspension problems, creaks constantly.

Interior and accessory problems.

Engine problems runs rough in comparison to other cars.

Power steering problems.

Brake problems.

Volvo does not provide loaner car services like other high end makes - some dealers have them, some don't.

Too many others to list, the car has been into the shop at least 30 times while under the "factory" warranty.

General Comments:

Car has had a number of problems since I have owned it. There are simply too many to list.

Volvo and the multiple dealerships I have taken the car to have been very unsympathetic to the problems and have done very little to try and correct a bad situation. The warranty fails to cover a huge amount of defects with the car and the dealerships and Volvo are waiting with open hands ready to collect my money for repairs.

Vehicle was a "Certified Preowned" with a "Volvo Factory Warranty". This was misrepresented to me by the dealer. The vehicle's warranty is not handled by Volvo at all and is almost like a managed health plan for a used vehicle. Volvo Increased Protection is a completely separate company that sells warranty services to almost any used car dealer that can dial their 800 number. This is Volvo's normal warranty for their certified program cars.

Very comfortable with a well designed interior and body.

Great road feel and handling.

Plenty of power in the base model with a manual transmission.

Shockingly bad resale value.

Shockingly bad dealer service.

A great car if you have the time, patience and money to repair it.

Free coffee and danish while you wait in the customer waiting area for your car.