Ocean Race proves versatile

The Volvo XC70 is not a new model, but the 2012 version of the Ocean Race Series is certainly worth a look. XC denotes "Cross Country" and this latest XC70 is designed to be as versatile as the V70 estate but with the addition of some other features such as all-wheel-drive and a hill descent control system. I suppose the XC70 is a vehicle that sits somewhere between an estate car and a 4x4. The ride height is increased over its sibling the V70, and the XC70 is distinguished by other visual touches such as XC crossed aluminium trim and unique XC upholstery and colour choices. My test car is a special edition version of the XC70 called the Ocean Race in celebration of Volvo's sponsorship of the World Ocean Race Series. First impressions The exterior is differentiated by extended XC roof rails, tough XC body mouldings, skidplates, and front lower cross member. The overall effect is quite good giving the estate body a rugged tough exterior. It all looks pretty cool and gives the car a distinctive style. The Ocean Race series comes in either Ocean Blue metallic or Electric silver metallic. Behind the wheel The cabin of the XC70 Ocean Race Series has an air of restrained opulence. Quality materials combined with good design create a welcoming atmosphere for driver and passengers alike. All the switches and controls move with a well-engineered precision. The driving position is excellent and both the driver's seat and steering wheel are fully adjustable. In fact it has to be one of the best cabin layouts around. Standard equipment in the Ocean Race includes all the usual features you'd expect on a luxury estate, including an in-dash 6 CD changer with Dolby pro-logic sound, heated seats, leather trim finish, auto climate control, cruise control, multi-function steering wheel, power tailgate with trap sensors and much more. This Ocean race Series car has numerous cosmetic details including Ocean Race leather with sail inspired stitching, Ocean race Aluminium trim... well you get the idea - a nautical theme I suppose! Of even more interest is the very high level of standard safety equipment. Apart from ABS brakes, Volvo's DSTC, multiple airbags, traction control and improved side impact protection with side airbags; the XC70 has a revolutionary anti-whiplash system in the front seats and a side impact inflatable curtain. The anti-whiplash system works by moving the headrest and backrest rearwards in a parallel movement in the event of a rear end collision thus cushioning the head, neck and upper body. And Volvo claim that the side-curtain can absorb 75% of the side impact if the vehicle is thrown sideways in an accident or crash. Performance The XC70 D3 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo direct injection common rail diesel mated to an excellent six-speed manual gearbox. This 2.0-litre five-cylinder now pumps out 163 BHP and yet remains quite frugal. I was simply amazed at just how good this improved engine proved to be. Fast, smooth, and economical, I'm not a diesel fan but the D3 has me converted. Over my weeks test the new XC70 D3 consumed just 8.0 litres of diesel per 100km, an excellent result for a car of this performance and size. This sort of economy will give the new XC70 a range of almost 800km between refuels! Road tax is just €330 per annum. Road behaviour In my opinion the XC70 Ocean Race falls between two stools in the ride and handling department. On the road it is well mannered but the ride sometimes feels out of kilter with what you would expect of a car in this class. Over some changing surfaces the car feels a bit unsettled. Furthermore my other reservation being a slightly over-light feel to the steering. Road, wind and tyre noise are all very well suppressed. The engine, even when revved hard, emits a very pleasant but distant growl. When it comes to going off-road it is rather limited, albeit a capable vehicle for towing a horsebox across muddy fields with ease or, a yacht down a slipway, work of that nature. Verdict Ok I have had a few minor reservations. Nevertheless over a very wet and mucky week the real virtues of this Volvo began to shine through. Flooded roads were a non-event. When others turned back the XC70 just ploughed on through. Mucky slippy country lanes were covered with pace and bags of grip thanks to the all-wheel drive system. The follow-me-home lights were a welcome companion on dark nights, the heated seats took the chill out of an early morning start, while the car performed faultlessly no matter what I threw at it. The XC70 range starts from €45,537 while the Ocean Race Series as tested here costs €55,970.