I've noticed several posts the last week or so asking about the new V70XC. Instead of replying to those I thought I would just post a report and hopefully those seeking info on that car will find this usefull. I've been the very happy owner of a Java/lt. beige XC since Aug 24. Available on the dealers lot and optioned with the intro package(leather and a few other goodies), cold weather and touring packages and a sunroof. I had been driving Ford Explorers for the past 10 years so this was really a change. I should of done it sooner. I and my wife simply love this car. We were a little nervous at first wondering about its handling in snow, but with the weather the past few weeks here in Syracuse, NY, the worry is over. This car is great in the snow. And to make things even better, it handles like a sports car when the conditions allow. I've been getting about 22 mpg in mixed driving. Just hit 3700 miles, so that may even improve a little. It is a very comfortable, quiet and solid car that gives the feeling of security and safety. The room is plenty for all my needs and the back actually measures greater in floor space then the Explorer. The only problem so far has been an annoying cricket like noise from the glovebox. The daler attempted twice to fix it but the noise always returned. I finally tried my self with a little self stick felt paper around the glovebox door/dash interface and the cricket has been gone for over a month now. I have seen other posts reporting the same problem. I am very pleased with the XC and happy I decided on this over the Audi A6 Avant, Lexus RX300, and Saab 9-5. The only vehicle I didn't test was the Acura MDX, but from what I've read, I picked the better car. Anyone thinking of the XC will be happy with it I'm quite sure.