2015 Volvo XC70 vs. Its Competition

John Voelcker

The 2015 Volvo XC70 starts around $35K, but it can soar beyond $50K if you have a heavy hand on the options list--meaning it competes with everything from mainstream crossovers to luxury SUVs.

It's a notch less pricey than comparable Audi, BMW, or Mercedes-Benz crossovers, but in the same ballpark as the sportier Acura MDX and the Lexus RX that defined the luxury crossover niche in the States.

The hybrid option on the Lexus isn't matched by the Volvo, but the new powertrain in front-wheel-drive XC70 models delivers very good gas-mileage ratings for its size and capacity.

The Audi Allroad was new for 2013, and is by far the most wagon-like of the competitors--offering both tighter roadholding and tighter quarters inside.

Volvo's own XC60 crossover has less room inside, but considerably more stylish lines.

Finally, the Subaru Outback--new for 2015--has steadily eaten into Volvo's traditional market for sturdy, unpretentious wagons, and will likely continue sell well.

And even the most expensive Outback with every option will only take you into the low end of the XC70's price range.