2012 Volvo C70 in Raleigh, NC - $8,000

A modern convertible with classic proportions, the front-drive Volvo C70 seats four comfortably and features a three-piece retractable hardtop. Volvo reinvigorated its signature C70 hardtop convertible last year with a sleek new look and an extended array of standard luxury features that add up to even greater value. The enhancements begin on the outside where the front sports a redesigned appearance that conveys a more aggressive appearance.

Last year's changes include revised exterior styling with new front fascia, grille, headlights, fenders, LED taillights and rear fascia. In addition, 17-inch "Sirona" diamond-cut alloy wheels are standard equipment while Flamenco Red and Ember Black joined the exterior color palette.

For 2012, the C70 gains the following features: standard Bluetooth hands-free phone interface gains audio streaming connection; a new trim level strategy; new Premier Plus trim level includes Keyless Drive, Homelink, rear park assist and integrated compass for auto dimming rear view mirror; new Platinum trim level (includes all Premier Plus content) adds Volvo Premium Sound System and Navigation System; and a new exterior color: Caspian Blue Metallic.

In addition, the Multimedia and Convenience Packages have been deleted and Black Oak inlays replace Nordic Light Oak inlays as stand-alone option.

Designed to be seamlessly transformed from a coupe into a convertible, the C70 retractable hardtop folds away quickly and smoothly into the trunk. Apart from the flexibility offered by the retractable hardtop, it also makes for a quieter, more comfortable coupe. The large rear window glass offers outstanding outward visibility and improves body rigidity.

Power for the C70 is generated by the 2.5L light-pressure turbocharged five-cylinder engine. Torque is communicated to the street through the standard five-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission – the only gearbox offered.

Substantial, smooth, reassuring and safe at speed, the C70 is a fancy top-down tourer that is suitable for all seasons and driving conditions. Volvo's P1 platform serves as the solid base for the Volvo convertible. Known for its dynamic driving characteristics, the stout chassis and stiff floor pan allow for great handling. A broader track front and rear than the other P1 based Volvos are combined with a long wheelbase to give the C70 high-speed stability. The chassis height has been lowered 0.3 inches up front and over 0.5 inches at the rear (compared to a standard P1 chassis), which further contributes to the C70's stable driving characteristics.

Inside the cabin is marked by Volvo's modern and innovative design features, inspired by Scandinavian tradition with clean surfaces, genuine materials and good functionality. Upgrades and changes made last year include a new instrument panel gauge cluster and watch-dial design graphics, a redesigned instrument panel surface and texture, standard Sovereign Hide leather and standard Sirius Satellite Radio.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 103.9; overall length: 181.7; width: 72.3; height: 55.1

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 2.5L turbocharged five-cylinder: 227 hp at 5,000 rpm and 236 lbs-ft of torque at 1,500 - 4,800 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed automatic with Geartronic

EPA Fuel Economy: 19 city/28 highway

Cargo capacity: 12.8 cu. ft

Safety features

Dual front airbags, door mounted side-impact airbags, dual side curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, traction control, brake assist, electronic brake distribution, traction control, dynamic stability control, Bluetooth hands free phone system, front/rear fog lights, battery run-down protection, engine immobilizer, daytime running lights, central locking system, remote keyless entry, rollover protection system, security system, and side-impact door beams.

Optional safety features include: blind spot monitor, rain sensor, headlight washers, keyless drive, rear parking assist, HomeLink garage door opener, and navigation system.

Warranty

Basic: 5-year/50,000 mile

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/unlimited 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2012 Volvo C70 convertible hardtop starts from $40,990. Destination charges add $895.