sorry, dont take it personal on that "niche market" thing. I didnt mean by it that you could or couldnt afford whichever. A niche market means a group of consumers with special needs, but its got to be big enough to be profitable. You obviouly have specific requirements and unfortunatly, Volvo doesnt fulfill them. Maybe they are missing the boat and didnt target right, who knows.

So take leather option. Its high quality and with proper care, it should last for years. The door panel are easy maintenance. As far as the moonroof issue, before writing this post, I sat in the car and calculated at least 4 inches clearance from the top of my head to the headliner. The car is really confortable and you sink into the seat. Even on bumpy roads (T5 suspension with 17inch), there is no way my head will move up and down more than an inch.

Cool option if you could make that trip to Sweden for a special order. I will go and pick it up for you if you cant go. I will only charge my travelling expenses and will take care of my own intertainment expenses. Deal?

I do see your point. I miss my RWDs (as you mention owning a 240). Volvo did change over the years. The V70 is a totally different experience than my previous 240, 740 and 940. It is really a pratical and fast "boring" Volvo and comfortable beyond belief, but I wish they would build cars like in the old days.
jf