2012 Volvo XC70

...this is a practical wagon with a maximum of 72 cubic feet of cargo space and all the safety features you expect in a Volvo, including whiplash-reducing seats, side airbags, and side-curtain airbags.

The XC70 is distinguished by its raised suspension and SUV-flavored trim.

Higher-riding XC70 leans the most in turns, but never alarms. One test XC70 showed mild steering-wheel tug in hard takeoffs -- odd for an AWD vehicle.

A viable alternative for those who need an all-weather wagon but don't want the bulk and poor handling of most SUVs.

With its soft, forgiving suspension, the XC70 provides a smooth, isolated ride on all surfaces.

With its uncluttered, handsome styling that says wagon, without any pretense of being anything else, good luggage space, largely sensible controls (except for the radio, as usual), a smooth and powerful turbocharged inline-5 and 8.5-in. maximum ride height, it makes a pleasant touring partner for the snow country.

A few of our editors were unimpressed by the matte-black cladding on the nose and sides, but others noted that, for driving in brush country, it makes perfect sense. Its appeal depends on how far off-road you intend to go.

It's simply a good blend of handling, luggage capacity, ergonomics and common sense.

The original family-friendly SUV that kick-started a craze and transformed Volvo's image.