yes, I should say, she drives an '03 Buick Century that suits her now, and according to her 'its paid off so I'll be running it into the ground..' so I kind of know what we're going to need. I need to replace my car, or at least have a safe 3rd car for when I have backseat passengers (note, my car was struck last winter, and though there's no apparent frame damage, the quarter panel is ruined and I wouldn't put kids in the seat closest to the carnage). It also would be fantastic if she had a spare vehicle to drive if hers ever goes in the shop. Up until now she has to taxi it everywhere if her car's out of service (though if you give most car companies 2-3 days notice they can get a hand controlled vehicle for you..)

I'm just hoping there's some volvo-specific benefits that I can find to 'sell' the car on her more. Not requiring a kick-plate would be something that makes her choose Volvo. Obviously if a lift doesn't fit in the car, we won't be getting that car (unless of course I devise a lift that does fit, because sometimes R's need to be owned, by me...). I'd also appreciate someone with firsthand knowledge of it in the car told of their likes/dislikes so i can make the experience better for her..