First of all, you have to realize that a Volvo is not a Honda or a Toyota. You don't buy a Volvo and expect it to be problem free all of the time. That said, I wouldn't trade my '98 V70 or '96 850 for any "reliable" Japanese car. I really like the safety features, ride, and comfort of the Volvos. Plus I can get a TON of stuff in my cars. I can get more stuff if my wagons than most people can get in their SUVs.

My '98 V70 has been relatively problem free for over a year now at 87,000 miles. It still runs like brand new too. It's an automatic and I can squeeze 30mpg out of it on the highway on a consistent basis. I'm sure the '01 and newer Volvos will have their share of bugs as well. Most of those cars still have really low miles.

Make sure you get service records for the car you're looking at. I can't stress how important that is. If there are no records, walk. If the car has been well taken care of, and you can see the proof it will serve you well and last you many years.

Good luck with the hunt!!