2002 Volvo XC70 AWD review from North America

I have not had the reliability issues other people have had. Here are my petty complaints:

The brake pedal in my XC seems too soft and requires a small amount of 'pumping' (step on- and off brakes 2-3 times quickly) to firm up. The braking is excellent despite this.

Ignition switch seems a little rough and has 'locked up' on me once or twice.

Steering wheel seems to be off center and car pulls ever so slightly, even though alignment has been checked twice and verified to be straight.

The plastic bumpers/trim can be a little difficult to keep looking like new.

Nothing else has gone wrong with this car since I've owned it.

I traded in my '95 Chevy Tahoe for this Volvo wagon/crossover because I couldn't justify the 10mpg of the Tahoe anymore, but needed a something to haul cargo in, as well as my dogs.

This car has been fantastic in virtually every respect: No reliability issues with this car (yet) @ 82K miles.

Oil changes are more expensive and more frequent than even my older Lexus, apparently because more oil is needed for this engine and a higher grade is recommended due to the turbo.

Great low-end power, though not a show-stopper at higher RPM. Fuel-efficiency for such a heavy, AWD car is quite good: 20-22 around town/28-30 on open highway.

The transmission in my XC is very smooth, sturdy, and flawless (these other reviews have me nervous though).

Versatility of this car is outstanding: folding front passenger seat along with other seats down allows for lumber transport and other cargo utility.

All Wheel Drive, Skid Control, and ABS give this car a sure-footed grip in any condition (in snow, on grass, through mud, etc). The overall handling is excellent as well.

The interior is exceptionally well appointed and has some of the most luxuriously comfortable seats I've ever experienced.

In general, this is a fantastic car that I love to drive. It has been (so far) extremely reliable and a joy to own.