OK, so my GF and I are looking into getting a Volvo to replace her 97 Escort with a 5 speed. There's absolutely no problem with her Escort (actually, tis' one of the best cars I've ever maintained/co-owned) fully loaded save the auto tranny.

We are moving into a bigger city (Calgary Alberta) and we want to get a car that meets the following requirements;
1. relaible
2. safe (cant' get any better than a Volvo 200/700 series
3. very comfortable front seats ( we'll be travelling b/t Alberta and Weyburn Saskatchewan, (a 10 hour drive) and her Escort is not very good on long distances/
4. fast enough to keep up in busy traffic
5. automatic

I've been consideirng a few cars but the Volvos seem the most cost efficient and able to meet our requirements. The only thing I hate about these cars is the fragile plastice esp.. in winter and the poor electronics. does it get better on newer Volvo's???
I have considered a MB, or another BMW, but I'm pretty sure that the costs will really get up there when I dont' have my personal very cheap mechanic who i get to work on my e30 BMW out here.

Any other suggestions to consider? I've thought of bigger luxury sedans since I't'd be good for highway use. I dont' really plan on driving to work in downtown calgary, since th public traffic system is very good.