The second-gen V70 XC arrived in 2000 with some more ground clearance and a new look, which involved quite a lot of black trim, going on to gain a more advanced transmission and the XC70 moniker when the XC90 SUV was launched in 2002. 2007 saw the launch of the third iteration, this time adding some extra luxury touches into the mix as well as useful hill descent control. North America continued its love affair with the car, taking nearly half of all XC70s made.
The new model is sure to follow the same pattern as its predecessors, but the formula clearly works, as demonstrated by the numerous imitations brought about by rival manufacturers. Dr Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President of Research & Development for Volvo stated: '' We were very careful from the very beginning to ensure that the Cross Country concept was not just an exercise in rugged styling. We placed high demands on real-world capability, and as we developed the segment we added the comfort and convenience elements that Volvo drivers have come to expect.''
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